Dealing with drug side effects

January 2004     View PDF     En español

Diarrhea

Aside from being annoying, the biggest concern is that diarrhea can cause dehydration. So the first course of action is to replenish lost liquids by drinking plenty of fluids, like Gatorade, ginger ale, chicken or beef broth, herb tea or just plain water. Chronic diarrhea may lead to weight loss. Foods that provide nutrients, calories, and absorb liquid (like the BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce and toast) are good tools in dealing with diarrhea.

Anti-diarrhea medications like Lomotil, Kaopectate, Imodium, or Pepto-Bismol can help. So can bulking laxatives like Metamucil. Nutritional supplements, such as L-Glutamine, Provir or Shaman Botanicals-Normal Stool Formula (SB-NSF) may also help, but can be expensive.

Tips for diarrhea

• Eat foods high in soluble fiber, which slows diarrhea by absorbing liquid. In addition to the BRAT diet, these foods include oatmeal, cream of wheat, grits and soft bread (not whole grain).
• Try psyillium husk fiber bars (another source of soluble fiber). A recent study showed that two bars eaten one hour before bedtime with a large glass of water can really help diarrhea. They can be found at health food stores.
• Avoid foods high in insoluble fiber, like the skins of vegetables and fruits. These foods can make diarrhea worse.
• Try to avoid milk products and greasy, high-fiber, or very sweet foods. They tend to aggravate diarrhea.
• Try taking calcium supplements (500mg twice a day).
• Prevent dehydration by drinking lots of fluids.