A Diet For Diarrhea

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - No one likes diarrhea but what many people don't know is that certain foods make diarrhea worse, and certain foods can help with the problem.

Here are seven meal and snack options that are ok to eat.

When you have diarrhea, you lose fluids along with salt and other minerals that maintain the fluid balance in the body. Broth-based soups help replace salt and fluid to prevent dehydration. Bland foods, such as bananas, are best when you have diarrhea. Bananas are also high in potassium, one of the important minerals you need to replenish.

Plain toast is another good bland food to nibble. This is one time when I will tell you to avoid whole wheat toast. Foods with a high fiber content can make you go to the bathroom more frequently.

Raw fruits and vegetables can make diarrhea worse. Most canned fruit, however, is easy on your stomach. Fruits also help replenish electrolytes.