NHS-approved: The best foods to eat when you have diarrhea

When you have diarrhea, it’s essential to be mindful of the foods you eat. The NHS provides a list of foods that can help ease symptoms and promote recovery. By choosing the right foods, you can support your digestive system and avoid aggravating your condition. Here are some of the best foods to eat when you have diarrhea, as recommended by the NHS.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are rich in essential nutrients and can help replenish the body’s supply of vitamins and minerals that may be lost during diarrhea. Opt for easily digestible options such as bananas, applesauce, and steamed or boiled carrots. These foods are gentle on the stomach and can provide much-needed nutrition without adding stress to the digestive system. It’s important to avoid high-fiber fruits and vegetables, as they can worsen diarrhea.

Lean Protein

Lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, and fish can be included in your diet when you have diarrhea. These protein options are easier to digest compared to red meats and can provide the body with the necessary building blocks for recovery. However, it’s important to prepare these proteins in a gentle manner, such as grilling, baking, or poaching, to avoid adding extra stress to the digestive system.

Whole Grains

When consuming grains, it’s best to choose easily digestible options such as white rice, plain pasta, or oatmeal. Whole grains like brown rice and whole wheat products can be harder to digest and may exacerbate diarrhea symptoms. Additionally, whole grains are high in fiber, which can further contribute to loose stools. The NHS recommends opting for refined grains when experiencing diarrhea.

Fluids

Staying hydrated is crucial when you have diarrhea. Fluids help prevent dehydration and can aid in flushing out toxins from the body. Water, clear broths, and herbal teas are good options for staying hydrated. It’s important to avoid caffeinated and sugary beverages, as they can worsen diarrhea symptoms. Electrolyte drinks can also be beneficial in replenishing lost nutrients and maintaining proper hydration levels.

Dairy Alternatives

If you typically consume dairy products, it may be best to temporarily switch to lactose-free alternatives when experiencing diarrhea. Dairy can exacerbate symptoms for some individuals, especially if they have lactose intolerance or are sensitive to dairy products. Opt for lactose-free milk, yogurt, and cheese to provide essential nutrients without negatively impacting digestion.

Conclusion

When you have diarrhea, it’s important to be mindful of the foods you eat. Following the NHS-approved list of foods to eat can help ease symptoms and promote recovery. By choosing easily digestible options such as fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and fluids, you can support your digestive system and avoid aggravating your condition. Additionally, opting for dairy alternatives can help minimize potential triggers for diarrhea symptoms.

FAQs

1. What should I avoid eating when I have diarrhea?

The NHS recommends avoiding high-fiber foods, fatty foods, spicy foods, and dairy products if you are experiencing diarrhea. These foods can exacerbate symptoms and may worsen your condition.

2. How long should I follow this diet?

You should follow the recommended diet for as long as you are experiencing diarrhea symptoms. Once your symptoms have subsided, you can gradually reintroduce other foods back into your diet and resume your regular eating habits.

3. Are there any medications that can help with diarrhea?

There are over-the-counter and prescription medications available to help manage diarrhea symptoms. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medications to ensure they are appropriate for your specific condition.

list of foods to eat when you have diarrhea nhs
When it comes to recovering from diarrhea, it’s essential to focus on consuming bland and easily digestible foods that won’t exacerbate your symptoms. According to the NHS, some of the best foods to eat when you have diarrhea include bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (also known as the BRAT diet). These foods are gentle on the stomach and can help firm up loose stools, providing relief from discomfort.

In addition to the BRAT foods, it’s also recommended to consume plain boiled or steamed chicken and white fish, as they are high in protein and low in fat, which makes them easier to digest. This can help replenish lost nutrients and provide the body with the energy it needs to recover from diarrhea. It’s important to avoid adding rich sauces or spices to these foods, as they can be irritating to the digestive system.

Yogurt and other probiotic-rich foods are another great option for those suffering from diarrhea. Probiotics can help restore the natural balance of good bacteria in the gut, which may be disrupted during a bout of diarrhea. Opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt that contains live and active cultures for the best results.

As well as focusing on what to eat, it’s also important to consider what to drink when dealing with diarrhea. Staying hydrated is crucial, so it’s advisable to sip on clear fluids such as water, clear broths, and herbal teas. These drinks can help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, which is essential for preventing dehydration.

Avoiding certain foods and beverages is just as important as choosing the right ones when dealing with diarrhea. Foods that are high in fiber, spicy, greasy, or overly sweet should be avoided, as they can be harder for the digestive system to handle. It’s also best to steer clear of caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages, as they can further irritate the stomach and worsen diarrhea symptoms.

Overall, the key to managing diarrhea through diet is to focus on consuming gentle, easily digestible foods and staying hydrated. It’s important to listen to your body and gradually introduce new foods as your symptoms improve. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s essential to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional. list of foods to eat when you have diarrhea nhs