Diarrhea
Diarrhea is an intestinal problem in which there is a passage of loose, watery stools more than 3 times a day and it leads to the excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes. Diarrhea can also cause many other important nutrient deficiencies as it takes nutrients with the stools.
Symptoms Associated with Diarrhea
Signs and symptoms associated with diarrhea are;
- Frequent loose, watery stools
- Abdominal Cramps
- Abdominal Pain
- Fever
- Bleeding
- Lightheadedness and dizziness from Dehydration
Causes of Diarrhea
The most common causes of diarrhea are;
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Parasites
- Medications such as antibiotics, artificial sweeteners, and lactose (especially in children)
Dietary Recommendations For Diarrhea
- Limit fried and fatty foods as these worsen diarrhea
- Foods with high sugar content should be avoided since this increases the risk of diarrhea
- Avoid lactose rich diet (milk) as most people become lactose intolerant during diarrhea
- Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water to compensate for dehydration
Foods that may be Tolerated
Fruits and Vegetables
- Applesauce
- Apple
- Banana
- Peaches
- Apricot
- Canned Pears
- Grapefruit
- Potatoes
- Melons
- Squash
Bread and Cereals
- Oatmeal
- Oat Bran
- White Rice
- Plain Noodles
- White Bread/Bagels
- Crackers
- Cream of Wheat
- Arrowroot Cookies
Protein Foods
- Cheese
- Yogurt
- Eggs
- Lean Fish
- Beef
- Skinless Poultry
Foods to Limit
Fruits and Vegetables
- Prunes
- Prune Juice
- Berries
- Dates
- Dried Fruits
- Figs
- Green Beans
- Wax Beans
- Peas
- Brussels Sprouts
- Corn
- Broccoli
Bread and Cereals
- Whole Wheat
- Bran Products
- Mini Wheat
- Raisins Wheat
- Shredded Wheat
- Bran Flakes
- Bulgur
- Weetabix
- All-Bran
- Bran Buds
- Barley
- Red River
- Wheat Germ
Protein Foods
- Dried Beans
- Dried Peas
- Lentils
- Nuts and seeds
- Fried Meat
- Fish
- Poultry
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