Diarrhea is a condition in which you experience loose, watery stools, often accompanied with cramps and bloating. The acute, or short-term, form of diarrhea generally is caused by food, bacteria or a virus and lasts only a couple of days. Chronic diarrhea is usually associated with a chronic illness such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Bloating is generally caused by trapped air in the abdomen and bowels, produced as a byproduct of the life cycle of a parasite, bacteria or virus. Some individuals experience diarrhea and bloating due to food intolerance or the natural reaction to substances in food such as beans. Making dietary changes can often help relieve this type of diarrhea and bloating.

Dietary Considerations
It is crucial to prevent dehydration when you are suffering from diarrhea. As long as diarrhea continues, consume plenty of calories and drink plenty of healthy fluids, such as water, juices, herbal teas, broth and fruit juice smoothies. You should consume at least 1.5 litres of fluids every day, and more if the diarrhea is ongoing and causing substantial fluid loss. Also, be sure to consume enough high-quality calories. Diarrhea causes food to move faster than normal through the digestive system, meaning all nutrients may not be absorbed.

Foods that contain soluble fibre, such as apples, peaches, pears and bananas, grains such as oatmeal and white rice and psyllium-containing supplements like Metamucil, can help with diarrhea. They absorb water, expand and bind together the intestinal contents, bulking up the stool and slowing its passage. Fibre intake should be increased slowly because it can cause gas. Bananas and avocados contain fibre and potassium, which can help to replenish electrolytes. In some cases, cheese can also help bind loose stool and control diarrhea; however, if you are lactose intolerant, cheese could actually contribute to diarrhea.