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Nutrition Considerations in Patients with Functional Diarrhea

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Abstract

Purpose

Functional diarrhea (FD) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects a great percentage of the population and has damaging nutritional and psychological effects. In this review, evidence has been assessed and analyzed to provide nutrition considerations and recommendations for patients with functional diarrhea.

Recent Findings

The traditional irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) diet, the low FODMAP diet, and general recommendations for diarrhea have been established as interventions for FD. Additionally, nutrition outcomes such as vitamin and mineral deficiencies, hydration levels, and mental health status should be at the forefront of assessment.

Summary

The importance of medical management of FD and IBS-D is established, with many existing evidence-based recommendations and approved medications available. Nutrition management of FD from a registered dietitian/dietitian nutritionist, from symptom control to dietary advice, is imperative. There are no “one-size-fits-all” approaches to nutrition management of FD, but there is promising literature that can shape personalized nutrition interventions from a registered dietitian.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, 7200 Cambridge St, Suite 8B, Houston, TX, 77030, USA

    Courtney Kay Ford

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  1. Courtney Kay Ford
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Correspondence to Courtney Kay Ford.

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Ford, C.K. Nutrition Considerations in Patients with Functional Diarrhea. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 25, 198–203 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-023-00878-5

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