What Foods Are Good For Diarrhea And Diarrhea Treatment?

Diarrhea uneasiness has laid my mom lazy and lethargic. Can you suggest some healthy diet for diarrhea?

Your question is a bit confusing, and worrying too. If this has been a recent development, then there is probably nothing to worry about – any person, when ill, is bound to be low on energy. This is particularly so with diarrhea, due to the loss of fluids as well as the loss of appetite that usually occurs. However, if your mother has had diarrhea for several days, or if she has frequent bouts of diarrhea, you should consult a doctor. Medical opinion is also advisable if there was only a single, severe bout of diarrhea, but your mother has continued to be lethargic after recovering.

Diarrhea can have numerous causes, although in most cases, it is the result of a minor infection. The infection is usually caused by the consumption of food or water that was not properly cooked/boiled, or was contaminated or spoilt. Diarrhea can also be caused by certain allergies, or merely by intolerance to certain foods. Lactose intolerance is quite common, as are allergies to milk, nuts, fish, and many other foods. (Note that there is a difference between lactose intolerance and an allergy – intolerance simply means an inability to metabolize the food, whereas an allergy involves an immune system reaction, which could cause hives, respiratory problems, and digestive problems too.

Fluid Replenishment For Diarrhea Treatment

If your mother suffers from frequent or near continuous diarrhea, this may be the cause. Keep an eye out for any connection between what she eats and a bout of diarrhea, and eliminate foods that seem to be responsible. Preferably, consult a doctor, and if necessary get her tested for allergies.

Usually, for a single bout of diarrhea, the only treatment needed is fluid replenishment. Ensure that your mother drinks plenty of water to prevent the diarrhea from dehydrating her. The patient can also lose a lot of salt, so a home made saline solution may be needed – this simply requires a glass of water, a teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Sugar helps with salt absorption, and is therefore needed; however, excessive consumption of sugar is harmful, as it will draw water into the intestines, thus worsening the diarrhea. For this reason, colas and other sugary drinks should be avoided during a bout of diarrhea. In addition, common sense dictates that foods that will further irritate the stomach or cause dehydration should be avoided. Avoid spicy, oily food, alcohol, and coffee, in addition to any particular foods that seem to worsen the unease or the diarrhea.

A bland diet for diarrhea can work wonders especially as your mother get better. Bland foods such as crackers, boiled potatoes, baked chicken (fat and skin removed), and cooked carrots can supplement plain rice, bananas and toast. Once the diarrhea stops you mother can slowly return to a balanced and normal diet.