What to Eat When You Have Diarrhea: Easy Diet Guide
Ananya Mishra | Mon, 05 Jan 2026
Loose motions can weaken the body by causing dehydration and loss of essential nutrients. Eating the right foods during this time plays a major role in calming the digestive system and speeding up recovery. Light, bland and easy-to-digest foods help firm stools, restore hydration and soothe the gut, making recovery smoother and more comfortable.
Diarrhea
Image credit : Freepik
Loose motions or diarrhea is a condition where a person suffers from frequent, watery or unformed bowel movements. They can lead to weakness, hydration and loss of essential nutrients from the body if not managed.
During this time, light and bland food should be consumed to stabilize digestion and get it back on track.
Bananas are one of the most suitable foods for loose stools. They have fibre that help in solidifying the fluid stools. It also makes up for the potassium loss caused to the skin.
![White Rice and Khichdi]()
Plain boiled white rice helps in the absorption of excess water in the intestines which slows down bowel movements. Plain rice also does not cause inflammation in the gut and soothes it. Another comforting option is moong dal khichri, which is a light source of protein as well.
Curd and buttermilk are known to have probiotics that keep the gut healthy. During diarrhea when the gut becomes irritated it helps restore balance and calms it down.
Coconut water helps in replenishing lost electrolytes in the body. It also helps in providing hydration and is gentle on the stomach.
![White Bread]()
Toast or white bread is a bland and easy to digest source of carbohydrate. It is a great food to calm an irritated stomach and harden stools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
During this time, light and bland food should be consumed to stabilize digestion and get it back on track.
Bananas
White Rice and Khichdi
White Rice and Khichdi
Image credit : Freepik
Plain boiled white rice helps in the absorption of excess water in the intestines which slows down bowel movements. Plain rice also does not cause inflammation in the gut and soothes it. Another comforting option is moong dal khichri, which is a light source of protein as well.
Curd or Buttermilk
Coconut Water
Toast
White Bread
Image credit : Freepik
Toast or white bread is a bland and easy to digest source of carbohydrate. It is a great food to calm an irritated stomach and harden stools.
Foods to Avoid
- If a person is suffering from loose motions there are certain food that can make it worse and further dehydrate the body.
- Spicy foods, caffeine, dairy products like cheese, alcohol and carbonated food should be avoided especially during this time.
- Heavy, oily and processed foods can worsen this condition.
- High fibre food can also increase bowel movements. They should be avoided until the condition gets better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the best diet during loose motions?
A bland diet including bananas, rice, curd and toast is best as it is easy to digest and helps firm stools. - How important is hydration during diarrhea?
Hydration is extremely important as loose motions cause loss of fluids and electrolytes, leading to weakness. - Which foods should be strictly avoided during loose motions?
Spicy, oily, sugary foods, caffeine, alcohol and high fibre foods should be avoided until recovery.
