Good for the elderly
The majority of the time, diarrhea may be managed at home by drinking lots of liquids to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. The BRAT diet, which consists of bananas, rice, apple sauce, and toast, can also be beneficial in alleviating symptoms. Potatoes, peanut butter, and skinless chicken or turkey are some of the other nutritious foods to consider eating.
It is possible that eating high-fiber meals will assist to avoid or lessen the frequency of loose stools. It is rare that people experience constipation that is so severe that they require medical attention. Multiple instances of loose stools, on the other hand, might be harmful.
A loose bowel movement is a bowel movement that seems softer than usual. They might be fluid, mushy, or completely devoid of form. Occasionally, they may have a strong or terrible stench, depending on the situation.
Certain illnesses, such as chronic pancreatitis, can also cause greasy, loose stools or diarrhea, as well as other symptoms. Even if a fatty meal may cause loose stools, you should consult your doctor if this is a recurring problem for you. Foods that are hot and spicy might irritate the intestinal lining, resulting in loose stools.
Taking an excessive amount of laxatives might also have a negative impact on your bowel motions. Additionally, certain medications, such as antibiotics and chemotherapy, can induce loose stools. If you have lactose intolerance, loose stools might be a significant concern for you.
Chronic Diarrhea in the Elderly: A Treatment Guide
Diarrhea in older people can be caused by a wide range of medical issues. It can be caused by anything from a common cause like an infection to something less common like autoimmune or endocrine diseases. Infectious diarrhea is often characterized by a sudden onset. Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections might be the cause of the infection.
Hydrate yourself with 8-10 cups of liquids every day. This may be anything from water to broth to half-strength juice to weak tea to electrolyte replacement beverages. Throughout the day, eat small, frequent meals that are consumed slowly. Make use of sources of soluble fiber to assist in firming up stools. Reduce your intake of fried or fatty meals, as they might aggravate diarrhea.
Bananas include potassium, which will aid in the restoration of normal digestive function. Bananas include resistant starch, which aids in the absorption of water and salt in the colon and, as a result, helps to firm up your stool. Bananas are also beneficial for recovering energy and digestive health, in addition to encouraging bowel movement.
Dr. Kirby notes that while it’s best to avoid dairy products while you have diarrhea, there is one important exception: yogurt or kefir, which is a fermented milk drink that contains probiotics, which can be consumed. These can help to replenish the good bacteria that your body has eliminated as a result of diarrhea.
According to D’Ambrosio, oatmeal is an example of a food that contains soluble fiber and may be beneficial in the management of diarrhea. In her words, ″soluble fiber is a kind of fiber that functions by drawing water and converting it into a gel during digestion.″ It can also assist in bulking up bowel motions by slowing down the digestive process,″ she says.
Myth. It is true that caffeine can cause the muscles in your digestive system to contract, resulting in the passing of a bowel motion. However, because caffeine (particularly escessive caffeine) dehydrates the body, it is not recommended. If you’re constipated, stay away from it or drink decaf instead.
When it comes to bowel motions, the look and sensations you have might vary from day to day, and they can also alter as you get older.
Pectin-rich foods, such as applesauce, bananas, and yogurt, should be consumed in moderation. Pectin, a water-soluble fiber, aids in the prevention of diarrhea. Drink plenty of potassium-rich beverages and meals, such as fruit juices and sports drinks, as well as potatoes without the skin and bananas. Potassium is frequently depleted as a result of diarrhea.
Imodium A-D works by slowing the passage of fluids through your intestines and reducing the frequency and amount of your stools. It is available over the counter. While Pepto-Bismol, on the other hand, helps to reduce intestinal irritation and kill germs that cause diarrhea, it is not recommended for usage during pregnancy.