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Foods to Help With Diarrhea & Energy?

Question

I have recently started chemotherapy for sarcoma and am having a terrible time with diarrhea which often causes me to feel weak and more fatigued. Are there any foods that I can eat to help with the diarrhea but also give me more energy?

Answer

Diarrhea is the frequent passage of liquid or loose bowel movements. When you have diarrhea, it is important to eat frequent small meals throughout the day. Foods like bananas, applesauce, yogurt, baked potato, noodles, white rice and bread, poultry and fish, eggs, peas, cheese, peanut butter, and cream soups are helpful because they are high in protein and calories. Foods like bananas and potatoes are important because they are high in potassium which is often lost with diarrhea. Also, eat foods containing salt such as saltines, broths, and pretzels to help retain sodium lost with frequent bowel movements. While having diarrhea, make sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day and avoid high fiber foods. If the diarrhea continues and you feel weak and fatigued or have any muscle cramps, you should contact your physician immediately for further recommendations.

This information is not intended to replace the individual recommendations or guidance you may have received from your physician or registered dietitian.

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