Diarrhea is a common condition affecting all ages. It is often caused by bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, consuming unsanitary food, or as a side effect of medication. The condition leads to symptoms such as frequent loose stools, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance.

Dr. Nguyen Anh Duy Tung, a specialist in Nutrition and Dietetics at Tam Anh General Clinic District 7, advises individuals with diarrhea to consume appropriate vegetables and tubers, prepared correctly to avoid excessive stimulation of bowel movements, which could worsen the condition.

Malabar spinach

Malabar spinach is tender and has cooling properties. It contains natural mucilage that soothes the digestive lining and helps lubricate the intestines. This food is rich in soluble fiber, which helps regulate bowel movements without increasing contractions or causing digestive upset.

Sweet leaf

Sweet leaf is rich in vitamins A, C, calcium, fiber, and easily absorbed plant protein, offering high nutritional value. When thoroughly cooked, sweet leaf becomes tender and easy to digest, making it suitable for the recovery phase. This vegetable also provides B vitamins, supporting metabolism and digestive function. Patients should avoid eating raw or undercooked sweet leaf, as it can irritate the intestinal lining and worsen diarrhea symptoms.

Amaranth

Amaranth is easily digestible and rich in vitamins and minerals like iron and magnesium. Its soluble fiber helps soften stools and regulate digestive activity without overstimulating bowel movements. Patients should prepare amaranth by boiling it until soft or cooking it in soup, avoiding raw consumption or excessive seasoning to limit digestive irritation.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin contains soluble fiber, which helps absorb excess water in the intestines, making stools firmer and reducing the frequency of bowel movements for those with diarrhea. Pumpkin also provides beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which enhances gut immunity and aids in the regeneration of damaged intestinal lining. Steamed, boiled, mashed, or pureed pumpkin is easy to digest.

Carrots

Carrots provide pectin, a type of soluble fiber that slows bowel movements and reduces abdominal pain and discomfort caused by diarrhea. Their high content of beta-carotene and B vitamins promotes the regeneration of damaged intestinal lining. Boiled or steamed carrots, cooked until soft, allow the body to easily absorb nutrients without causing irritation.

Potatoes

Potatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and essential minerals, which boost resistance and help patients recover quickly from diarrhea. Doctors advise eating boiled or steamed potatoes to retain maximum nutrients, avoiding deep-frying or heavy seasoning to reduce the burden on the digestive system.

Sweet potatoes

In addition to soluble fiber, sweet potatoes contain beneficial micronutrients for the digestive system, stabilizing gut activity and supporting health recovery. Vitamins A, C, and potassium help restore the intestinal lining, strengthen the immune system, and replenish the body's energy.

Patients should prioritize easily digestible, well-cooked vegetables. Avoid raw vegetables, pickled foods, or dishes that may irritate the intestines. If diarrhea persists or becomes severe, patients should seek medical attention promptly for timely treatment.

Quoc An