Can You Eat Yogurt If You Have Diarrhea?
“Can you eat yogurt if you have diarrhea?” This, perhaps, is a frequent question among those who have had this digestive problem. Diarrhea usually alerts an alteration of the intestinal microbiota; likewise, it is associated with stress or a specific infection.
In any case, food plays an important role in curbing it. It even prevents other complications from being generated, although sometimes it is necessary to supplement it with pharmacological measures.
Regarding the consumption of yogurt, the evidence suggests that it is a beneficial food, as long as it does not contain added sugars. Being a nutritious and probiotic food, it favors the balance of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. What else to know about it?
Yogurt is a source of probiotics
If yogurt stands out for something, it is because of its bacteria content, specifically in Lactobacillus. These microorganisms are capable of colonizing the digestive tract and, in turn, reduce the risk of developing metabolic pathologies.
According to research published in the journal Nutrients , regular consumption of probiotic bacteria is capable of reducing the incidence of type 2 diabetes, and even some types of cardiovascular disease.
To ensure a constant supply of beneficial bacteria to the intestine there are several methods available. The first is probiotic supplementation. In these cases, the optimum is to choose a single-strain product with an abundant content of bacteria that can guarantee that these reach the areas of the intestine that they must colonize alive.
It is also possible to introduce these microorganisms into the digestive system through the regular consumption of fermented products, such as yogurt and kefir.
Also read: What is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?
Is it good to eat yogurt if you have diarrhea?
As we mentioned, diarrhea is a gastrointestinal disorder that can be caused by multiple causes. L at most of them are related to an imbalance of intestinal microflora level. For this reason, ensuring a regular supply of beneficial bacteria could help correct this process.
A study carried out in children shows that the consumption of probiotics is capable of preventing and treating diarrhea caused by the intake of antibiotics. This research uses supplementation to obtain the results, but it is also possible to administer yogurt on a regular basis to prevent the appearance of intestinal pathologies.
In general, it is common for yogurt intake to be recommended when the person is undergoing antibiotic treatment. The objective of this advice is to increase the protection of the microbiota against wear and tear caused by drugs, a situation that increases the risk of processes related to dysbiosis and the appearance of gastrointestinal disorders.
Consuming yogurt reduces diarrhea associated with stress
Stress is another of the factors capable of inducing the appearance of diarrhea or other intestinal disorders. E l CNS is linked directly to the gastrointestinal tract, as explained an article published in Chinese Medical Journal.
Therefore, an alteration in either of the two systems can directly affect the other. Thus, any process of stress or emotional disturbance is capable of increasing the risk of suffering from diarrhea.
In relation to this, and to reduce the appearance of emotional disorders, it is recommended to take care of the intestinal flora and improve the lifestyle. Consuming probiotic-enriched yogurt can provide protection against mood disturbances.
The intake of kefir or supplementation with probiotics also works. In any case, the flavor of kefir is not suitable for all tastes, due to its acid touch and its texture. Meanwhile, yogurt has a good general acceptance.
Of course, it is important to look at the labeling and choose a product that does not contain added sugars in its composition. Otherwise, we would be acquiring a yogurt of low nutritional quality, which could negatively impact metabolic health and blood glucose levels.
In case of diarrhea, consuming yogurt is a wise option
Consuming yogurt if you have diarrhea can improve the symptoms of this process and speed up recovery. In any case, it is not necessary to suffer from this disorder to start including this food in the regular diet.
Yogurts are products that are recommended in almost any meal plan, as they provide probiotics, healthy fats, and protein. In addition, they provide calcium and other essential minerals that promote well-being.
Thus, it is convenient to review the labeling to determine that it is a high quality product. Not all dairy desserts on the market fall under the concept of yogurt. Some contain too much sugar and contribute little nutritionally.
