what to eat while loose motion - #14896
I am feeling kinda lost right now and could really use some advice. For the past couple of days, I’ve had this awful loose motion, like it’s just not stopping. It started after I had some spicy food, I dunno if that’s the cause or what. Anyway, I know hydration is super important, but honestly, I’m not sure what to eat while loose motion is happening. I tried some plain rice yesterday which helped a bit, but I’m scared to eat anything else! I’ve heard a bunch of things about what to eat while loose motion and then I get confused because some say bananas are good, but then I read somewhere that dairy products should be avoided? How do you even know what to eat while loose motion? I wish someone could give me clear guidelines. I feel weak and just want to get back to normal, but I worry that whatever I eat might make it worse. What do you guys recommend? Like, can someone who’s been through this tell me what to eat while loose motion for sure? I don't wanna mess this up!
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Doctors’ responses
When dealing with loose motions or diarrhea, what you eat can definitely make a difference. It’s good that you’re already focusing on hydration – that’s crucial to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Drinking oral rehydration solutions (ORS) or clear fluids like broths can help balance electrolytes. In terms of food, the BRAT diet is a traditional approach that’s often recommended: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These foods are bland and can help firm up stools. Bananas are particularly helpful as they contain potassium, a key electrolyte. Rice, as you’ve already tried, is a low-fiber carbohydrate that’s gentle on the stomach. Applesauce can also be soothing and provides some pectin, which helps to solidify stool. Toast is similarly bland and easy to digest.
However, it’s indeed wise to avoid certain things: dairy products might be harder to digest if you’re lactose intolerant or if your digestive system is just sensitive during this time. It’s also advisable to avoid high-fiber foods, spicy foods, fatty foods, and sweetened foods or drinks, as they can potentially worsen diarrhea. Probiotics, found in supplements or foods like yogurt (with live cultures), may help restore your gut bacteria, but go for lactose-free options if dairy seems to worsen your symptoms. Keeping meals simple, bland, and small can also reduce irritation.
If your symptoms persist beyond a couple of days, or if you notice signs of dehydration (like dizziness, extreme thirst, or reduced urine output), it’s important to reach out to a healthcare professional. They can help determine if there’s an underlying cause that requires specific treatment, especially since persistent diarrhea can sometimes be a sign of a more serious issue. Moreover, if you ever notice blood in your stool, high fever, or severe abdominal pain, you should seek medical attention promptly. These guidelines can help you manage your symptoms at home safely but don’t hesitate to consider professional evaluation as needed.
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