Answer Summary
Members shared various strategies to manage diarrhea, with many recommending the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast), probiotics like... Read more
Nick,
Sometimes the BRAT diet doesn’t work. I ate the BRAT diet for over 2 months with no change. Sometimes we have to try something else when that doesn’t work. Julie, I hope you find some relief.
Paula🌹
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Paula,
You are a God Send! Great ideas I’ll try them and thank you so much!!!
@A MyMyelomaTeam Member,
Have you ever tried grinding your own flax. A teaspoon of freshly ground flax can make all the difference. Rehydrate prunes too. I avoid meat and starches when I get constipated. I eat more salads and vegetables.
Paula🌹
Effective supplements to manage or prevent chemo-induced diarrhea include probiotics (especially Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium), L-glutamine, and soluble fiber, such as psyllium husk. These help restore gut flora, protect intestinal cells, and firm up stool consistency. Always consult a doctor before starting, particularly if immune-suppressed.Top Recommended SupplementsProbiotics: These are key for reducing the risk of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea, with studies 5 suggesting they help with 2 regimens using fluoropyrimidines or irinotecan. Key strains include Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus acidophilus.L-glutamine: Often recommended as it serves as fuel for intestinal cells (enterocytes) and helps maintain the structural integrity of the gut, reducing damage.Soluble Fiber: Supplements like Metamucil (psyllium husk) can help slow transit time and bind stool, but should be introduced slowly.Other Potential Aids: Vitamin D and fish oil are sometimes recommended to manage side effects, according to 5 supplements to treat cancer side effects.Important ConsiderationsProbiotic Selection: Using a combination of multiple bacterial species may offer better protection than single-strain, notes 12.Medical Guidance: It is crucial to check with an oncologist, especially if you have had a bone marrow transplant, as probiotics may carry risks.Dietary Support: In addition to supplements, ensure you eat low-fiber, bland foods (like bananas and rice) and stay hydrated with electrolytes [1, 4].