good food for loose motion - #17714
I am really struggling with some awful loose motions for the past couple of days, and it’s been super frustrating! I was out with friends having a blast, but then suddenly had to dash to the bathroom, like, way too many times. My stomach's been gurgling nonstop, and I feel weak and dehydrated. I googled a bunch, but I’m confused about what’s actually good food for loose motion. I mean, I tried bananas—but is that even a good food for loose motion? I heard about rice and toast too, but I can't remember if that’s just an old wives' tale or real advice. What about yogurt? I feel like that might help since I've read it's good for gut health, but what do you think? Also, someone told me to avoid dairy, which has me worried 'cause I love cheese! 😩 I'm trying to think of what else to eat since I need to get my energy back but don’t want to make things worse. What’s your take on this? What’s, like, the best good food for loose motion that won't make situations worse? Any tips would really help!
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Doctors' responses
Addressing loose motions mainly involves keeping you hydrated and consuming foods that are gentle on the stomach. Bananas, for example, are actually a fantastic choice for diarrhea. They can help replenish potassium, which you often lose during episodes of diarrhea. Rice is also beneficial; it’s easy on your stomach and can help firm up stools. Toast, as part of the BRAT (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) diet, was commonly recommended, but modern advice suggests incorporating a wider variety of foods when you’re ready, like plain boiled potatoes, which provide energy and are gentle on the gut. Yogurt might be helpful too; if it’s low-fat and contains live active cultures, it can assist in rebuilding the friendly bacteria in your intestines. However, with dairy, you want to be cautious; some people have temporary lactose intolerance during acute diarrhea.
In terms of cheese and other dairy products, it might be wise to refrain from consuming them until your symptoms settle, as dairy can sometimes exacerbate things. Hydration is crucial, so keep drinking plenty of fluids, but stick with oral rehydration solutions, clear broths, or water. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine for now. If you’re feeling weak, consider blending in some electrolyte drinks to help balance your hydration levels. Remember, if loose motions persist for more than a couple of days, or if you experience severe symptoms like high fever, bloody stools, or significant dehydration, contact a healthcare provider. They might assess if there’s an underlying infection or another issue that needs addressing. Keep monitoring your symptoms, and listen to your body—ease back into eating as you start to feel better.
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