Is consuming rice beneficial for someone with diarrhea?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Rice is a recommended food for people with diarrhea because it is easy to digest, low in fiber, and helps firm up stools. As a bland, starchy carbohydrate, white rice slows bowel movements, replenishes lost energy, and improves nutrient absorption during recovery.

If diarrhea is disrupting your day or lingering longer than expected, it's worth understanding why. Diet tweaks like rice can ease symptoms, but the root cause matters just as much as the relief. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights based on your specific symptoms and clear guidance on what to do next.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

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Explanation

Rice is good for people with diarrhea because it helps the body absorb nutrients better. Here's why rice is beneficial:

Nutrient Absorption: Studies show that rice helps the body absorb nutrients, which is important when someone has diarrhea.
Improves Digestion: Eating rice can improve digestion and help the body recover from diarrhea.
Rice-Powder Salt Solution: A special mix of rice powder and salt can also be helpful in treating diarrhea.

In summary, rice is a helpful food when dealing with diarrhea because it supports the body in getting better by improving nutrient uptake and digestion. If you're experiencing persistent digestive symptoms, take a free symptom checker test to better understand what might be causing your discomfort and when to seek professional care.

(References)

Roy SK, Akramuzzaman SM, Haider R, Khatun M, Akbar MS, & Eeckels R. (1994). Persistent diarrhoea: efficacy of a rice-based diet and role .... The British journal of nutrition, 8312236.
Roy SK, Haider R, Akbar MS, Alam AN, Khatun M, & Eeckels R. (1990). clinical efficacy and nutrient absorption with a rice based diet. Archives of disease in childhood, 2334207.
Sabchareon A, Chongsuphajaisiddhi T, Kittikoon P, & Chanthavanich P. (1992). Rice-powder salt solution in the treatment of acute diarrhea .... The Southeast Asian journal of tropical medicine and public health, 1488696.

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