Best Smoothie for Diarrhea: Soothing Recipes & Tips

The best smoothie for diarrhea includes bananas, yogurt, and oatmeal to help firm stools and replenish lost nutrients.

Diarrhea can leave you feeling weak and dehydrated, but the right smoothie can help restore nutrients and ease discomfort. Packed with gut-friendly ingredients like bananas, rice milk, and ginger, these smoothies provide relief while keeping you hydrated. Below, we’ll explore the best recipes and ingredients to include—and avoid—when dealing with diarrhea.

Why Smoothies Help With Diarrhea

Smoothies are an excellent choice for diarrhea because they are easy to digest and can replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Unlike solid foods, which may irritate an already sensitive digestive system, blended ingredients are broken down, making them gentler on the stomach. Additionally, certain ingredients can help firm up stools and reduce inflammation.

Key Benefits:

• Hydration: Smoothies contain liquids that help prevent dehydration.
• Electrolyte Balance: Ingredients like bananas and coconut water restore potassium and sodium.
• Digestive Support: Soluble fiber from oats and rice helps bulk up stools.

Best Ingredients for Diarrhea Smoothies

Choosing the right ingredients is crucial to avoid worsening symptoms. Stick to low-FODMAP foods that are gentle on digestion.

1. Bananas

Rich in potassium, bananas help replace lost electrolytes. They also contain pectin, a soluble fiber that absorbs excess water in the intestines.

2. White Rice or Rice Milk

White rice is a great binding food that soothes the stomach. Rice milk is a lactose-free alternative to dairy.

3. Ginger

Ginger reduces nausea and inflammation in the gut. A small piece (about 1 inch) is enough to add digestive benefits.

4. Coconut Water

Packed with electrolytes, coconut water helps rehydrate the body naturally. Avoid sugary sports drinks.

5. Plain Yogurt or Kefir

Probiotics in yogurt and kefir restore gut bacteria balance. Opt for unsweetened varieties to avoid excess sugar.

6. Chia Seeds (Optional)

When soaked, chia seeds form a gel-like consistency that can help firm stools. Use sparingly (½ tsp) to avoid excess fiber.

Smoothies to Avoid

Some ingredients can aggravate diarrhea. Steer clear of:

• High-FODMAP fruits: Apples, pears, and mangoes (unless peeled and cooked).
• Dairy milk: Lactose can worsen diarrhea in sensitive individuals.
• Caffeine: Coffee or cacao can stimulate bowel movements.
• Artificial sweeteners: Sorbitol and xylitol have a laxative effect.

3 Best Smoothie Recipes for Diarrhea

1. Banana-Rice Soothing Smoothie

Featured Snippet: “Banana-rice smoothie soothes diarrhea.”

• 1 ripe banana
• ½ cup cooked white rice (cooled)
• 1 cup rice milk (or coconut water)
• ½ tsp ginger (grated)
• 1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions: Blend until smooth. Drink slowly.

2. BRAT Diet Smoothie (Banana, Rice, Applesauce, Toast)

• 1 banana
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ½ slice white toast (blended into crumbs)
• 1 cup rice milk
• Pinch of cinnamon

Tip: This follows the BRAT diet, a well-known remedy for diarrhea.

3. Probiotic Recovery Smoothie

• 1 banana
• ½ cup plain yogurt (or kefir)
• ½ cup coconut water
• 1 tsp chia seeds (soaked)
• 1 tsp honey (optional)

Why it works: Yogurt introduces beneficial bacteria, while coconut water hydrates.

Additional Tips for Managing Diarrhea

• Stay hydrated: Sip water, herbal tea, or oral rehydration solutions.
• Avoid fatty foods: Greasy meals can worsen symptoms.
• Use a high-quality blender: Ensures smooth consistency for easier digestion.

When to See a Doctor

If diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours or is accompanied by fever, blood in stools, or severe dehydration, seek medical attention.

By incorporating these smoothie recipes and tips, you can ease discomfort and recover faster. Stick to gentle, binding ingredients and avoid irritants for the best results.