What foods should be avoided during diarrhea?

Foods to Avoid During Diarrhea

Avoid high-fat foods, dairy products (except yogurt and firm cheeses), caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners (especially sorbitol), spicy foods, and high-fiber/insoluble fiber foods during any type of diarrhea. 1

Core Dietary Restrictions

High-Priority Foods to Eliminate

• Fatty and fried foods: Take-away food, fish and chips, creamy sauces, cream, fried foods, and fatty meats should be strictly avoided as they trigger diarrhea most frequently 1, 2

• Dairy products: Avoid milk and most dairy products (except yogurt and firm cheeses) due to potential lactose intolerance during diarrheal episodes 1

• Artificial sweeteners: Completely eliminate sorbitol found in sugar-free sweets, chewing gum, drinks, and diabetic/slimming products 1

• Caffeinated beverages: Restrict coffee and tea to maximum 3 cups per day, or eliminate entirely during acute episodes 1

• Alcohol: Avoid all alcoholic beverages and fizzy/carbonated drinks 1

Additional Foods That Worsen Symptoms

• Spicy foods and seasonings: These directly irritate the gastrointestinal tract and should be avoided 1, 3

• High-fiber foods: Limit whole-meal or high-fiber flour and breads, cereals high in bran, whole grains (like brown rice), and insoluble fiber sources 1

• Resistant starch: Found in processed or recooked foods, these resist digestion and reach the colon intact, worsening diarrhea 1

• Excess fresh fruit: Limit to 3 portions per day (approximately 80g each), as larger quantities can trigger symptoms 1, 3

• Gas-producing foods: Cauliflower, legumes, beans, salads, and certain vegetables can worsen bloating and diarrhea 1, 3

• Raw or undercooked foods: Avoid raw eggs, undercooked poultry/meat/seafood, unpasteurized dairy, and unwashed produce to prevent infectious diarrhea 1

Foods That Are Better Tolerated

• Bland starches: Water, rice, plain pasta or noodles, baked or broiled potatoes, white breads 3

• Lean proteins: Plain fish, chicken, turkey, ham, and eggs prepared without heavy sauces 3

• Low-lactose dairy alternatives: Yogurt, firm cheeses, and lactose-free products 1

• Specific fruits: Applesauce, cantaloupe, watermelon, fruit cocktail, bananas 3, 2

• Simple additions: Margarine, jams, jellies, peanut butter 3

Critical Hydration Guidelines

• Drink at least 8 cups of fluid per day, focusing on water or non-caffeinated drinks like herbal teas 1

• Avoid contaminated water sources: Never drink directly from lakes or rivers; during boil-water advisories, boil water for >12 minutes 1

• Replace ongoing losses: Use oral rehydration solutions when appropriate, giving 10 ml/kg for each liquid stool 4

Special Considerations by Context

Post-Surgical Diarrhea (Bariatric Surgery)

• Avoid simple sugars and high glycemic index foods 1
• Reduce fat consumption and customize menus 1
• Prefer low-lactose or lactose-free milk 1

Cancer Treatment-Related Diarrhea

• Reduce insoluble fiber intake 1
• Avoid milk and dairy products (apart from yogurt and firm cheeses) during chemotherapy 1

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

• Avoid fibrous, plant-based raw fruits and vegetables if strictures are present 1
• Cook and process fruits and vegetables to soft consistency before eating 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not use antidiarrheal medications in neonates or children under 2 years due to life-threatening risks 4

• Do not dilute formula or delay full-strength feeding in infants, as this worsens nutritional outcomes and prolongs diarrhea 4

• Do not assume all fiber is beneficial: Insoluble fiber may worsen symptoms, while soluble fiber (like oats) may help 1

• Avoid cross-contamination: Wash hands, cutting boards, and utensils thoroughly after contact with uncooked foods 1