The condition of the waste products our bodies produce can reveal much about the state of our overall health. Diarrhea occurs when food and fluids pass too quickly through the digestive system.
And since waste products do not have time to conflate, this results in a loose and watery stool.
Experiencing diarrhea can prevent nutrients from being properly absorbed, and can sometimes signal more serious problems such as infection, food poisoning, colitis or even a gastrointestinal tumor.
But as Everyday Health points out, people afflicted with diseases that cause diarrhea, like IBS, can lessen their symptoms by avoiding certain foods.
If you’re suffering from digestive discomfort and diarrhea, Everyday Health recommends avoiding the following eight foods:
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1) Caffeine. Caffeine stimulates the gastrointestinal system, at times leading to strong contractions and more bowel movements even in healthy individuals. Additionally, it has a diuretic effect, which may worsen dehydration caused by diarrhea.
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2) Insoluble fiber. Raw fruits, raw vegetables, seeds, and nuts also act as a stimulant in the digestive system and can cause a narrow opening to become blocked. On the other hand, soluble fiber, such as pasta, rice, baked potatoes, and oatmeal, can be soothing in that it helps bind loose stools.
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3) Alcohol. Irritating to the GI system, alcohol carries a double whammy because it can worsen dehydration. 
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4) Fats. Too much dietary fat can lead to steatorrhea, a sometimes painful condition marked by foul-smelling stools that float. Fat can also increase peristaltic activity, leading to more bowel movements.
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5) Carbonated beverages. Undigested gas bubbles from these drinks can lead to uncomfortable gas. You may also get painful attacks from gas-producing vegetables as onions, garlic, beans, broccoli, and cauliflower.
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6) Red meat. While red meat is a great source of vitamin B12 and other nutrients, it is hard to digest. Other sources of protein, such as white meat and fish, can be more comfortably digested.
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7) Artificial fats and sweeteners. Products that contain artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol, mannitol, and sucralose, can cause diarrhea and flatulence even in people with healthy GI tracts. Olestra, an artificial fat, can sometimes have the same effect.
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8) Dairy. This advice applies only to lactose-intolerant people. These individuals need to steer clear of dairy foods to avoid the pain and flatulence that can worsen their symptoms. Otherwise, dairy is a good source of protein and calcium and should be kept in your diet if possible. Some people may take enzymes to help digest lactose.
Inquisitive foodie with a professional investigative background and strong belief in the organic farm to table movement. Author of Bad Seeds: A FriendsEAT Guide to GMO's.
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