what to eat during loose motion - #17643
I am really stressed about what to eat during loose motion. Last week, I had this awful stomach flu. I was stuck in the bathroom for like two days, and now even though I feel a bit better, my stomach is still a mess. I tried eating bland stuff like toast and rice, but it feels like nothing helps. My friend told me that bananas are good when you're dealing with loose motion, and I kinda remember something about BRAT diet from school. But I really want to know—what to eat during loose motion? Should I be avoiding dairy completely? I love yogurt, but I'm not too sure if it’s a good idea right now. Also, I heard some people say that broth or clear soup is good, but like, how clear is clear soup supposed to be? Are there certain spices that can make things worse? I’m just worried I won’t heal properly if I don’t eat the right things. If anyone has tips on what to eat during loose motion that won’t upset my stomach even more, I would be super grateful for any advice. Feels like I’m still on the struggle bus here, and just want to get back to normal eating soon.
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Doctors' responses
When you’re experiencing loose motions, your main goals are to stay hydrated and gradually introduce foods that are gentle on your digestive system. The BRAT diet you mentioned—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—is considered a good starting point. These foods are bland, low fiber, and help to bind stools. Bananas, specifically, can be quite helpful because they’re rich in potassium, which can replenish electrolytes lost through diarrhea. In terms of hydration, make sure you’re drinking plenty of fluids. Oral rehydration solutions can be very effective because they are balanced with sugar and salt to help your body retain fluids. Clear broths or soups are another good option. When we say clear soup, think of broth that is strained and free from any solid particles. It doesn’t have to be completely transparent but should be easy to digest. On the yogurt question, it’s a bit tricky—yogurt with probiotics can help restore the good bacteria in your gut, but if you’re lactose intolerant or find that dairy upsets your stomach more, it might be wise to avoid it until you recover. As for spices, it’s best to keep your food quite mild during recovery to avoid irritation; spicy or oily foods can aggravate your digestive tract. Once you start feeling better, you can gradually reintroduce low-fiber fruits like melon, boiled potatoes, or pasta. While you’re recovering, try to eat small, frequent meals rather than large, heavy ones. It might feel a bit restrictive now, but easing back into your regular diet slowly will help your digestive system aim for a smoother recovery. If symptoms persist or worsen, it would be a good idea to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you experience significant dehydration, high fever, or if the diarrhea is prolonged. It’s important you don’t delay seeking care if you think the situation might be serious.
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