what to eat during loose motions - #22101
I am dealing with some pretty uncomfortable loose motions lately and it's got me worried about what to eat during loose motions. Just two days ago, I had this sudden onset of diarrhea, and it’s like everything I eat just rushes through me. I can’t tell if it’s something I ate or maybe a mild virus. My stomach feels bloated and a bit crampy, and to make things worse, I can't seem to keep anything down. I’ve tried drinking water, but I’m scared I’ll make it worse by eating the wrong thing. Can anyone tell me what to eat during loose motions that could actually help? I’ve heard about the BRAT diet but not sure if that's enough. Is plain rice with boiled potatoes okay? I've also thought about eating some toast, but am I just going to regret that? I need something that won’t irritate my stomach even more, you know? My friend said bananas can help too, but how much should I eat? Just really trying to figure out what to eat during loose motions since I have to be careful and I feel like I’m just lost here. Any advice, or personal experience with what worked for you would be super appreciated! Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
When dealing with loose motions, focusing on foods that are easy on your digestive system can be helpful. The BRAT diet - which stands for Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast - is often recommended in these situations. These foods are bland, low in fiber, and help in firming up the stool. Rice is a great start; plain white rice can help reduce episodes as it’s gentle on the stomach. Boiled potatoes are similarly soothing, just ensure they’re well-cooked and not seasoned with anything harsh like butter or oils that might irritate. Toast is generally safe, but stick to white bread for now, as whole grains could be more difficult to digest. As for bananas, they are particularly good as they contain pectin, a type of fiber that helps absorb excess water in the intestines and can add bulk to your stool. Eating one to two medium bananas a day can be beneficial, but don’t overdo it as it might start causing constipation as you recover.
Hydration is key, so keep sipping water or consider an oral rehydration solution if you’re feeling dehydrated. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, or sugary beverages as they can worsen symptoms. If you do not notice any improvement, or if your situation worsens, it might be time to seek medical attention, especially if you observe red-flag symptoms like a high fever, bloody stools, or dehydration signs such as very dark urine or feeling lightheaded. Beyond the immediate diet, understanding if this is linked to a viral infection or something you ate can help prevent future occurrences, so a visit to your healthcare provider might be warranted if this persists.
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