Foods that help with diarrhea are generally bland, low in fiber, and easy to digest. The well-known BRAT diet-bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast-is often recommended because these foods are gentle on the stomach, low in fiber, and help firm up stool
. Additional helpful foods include:
- Boiled or baked potatoes without skin, which provide potassium lost during diarrhea
- Plain crackers or saltines, which are easy to digest and can soothe the stomach
- Cooked cereals such as oatmeal, Cream of Wheat, or farina, which are mild and can help bulk stools
- Lean proteins like skinless chicken breast, soft-cooked eggs, and lean cuts of turkey, beef, pork, or fish
- Low-fat yogurt or kefir containing probiotics to help restore gut flora, although most dairy should be avoided during diarrhea
- Clear broths and soups to maintain hydration and replace lost electrolytes
It is also important to drink plenty of fluids such as water, electrolyte- enhanced drinks, or weak decaffeinated tea to prevent dehydration
. Foods to avoid during diarrhea include spicy, fried, greasy foods, dairy products (except probiotic yogurt), coffee, soda, and high-fiber or sugary foods, as these can worsen symptoms
. In summary, a diet focused on bland, binding foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, boiled potatoes, lean proteins, and clear fluids helps manage diarrhea and supports recovery
