Lifestyle Risk Factors
Diarrhea can result from a change in your diet, such as eating too much fiber, eating spicy foods, or following a liquid diet.
Other habits and exposures can put you at greater risk for diarrhea, in addition to examining and possibly adjusting what you eat and drink:
Personal Hygiene
Contaminated surfaces, food, and water can spread the bacteria, parasites, and viruses that cause stomach flu and traveler’s diarrhea. Medically, this is known as the fecal-oral route. Whenever you use the bathroom, change your child’s diaper, or eat, wash your hands well to reduce your risks.
Using an alcohol-based hand gel is a good alternative to soap and water when you don’t have access to them. Don’t drink untreated water from natural sources like streams. Even in developed countries, they are susceptible to parasites that can cause diarrhea, such as Giardia.
Avoid contaminated water and food in areas with a higher risk of contamination, take only bottled water and use ice that has been purified or bottled.
Mishandling of food
Following these tips outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can help prevent food poisoning.
- Clean: Wash cutting boards and utensils with hot, soapy water. Keep the kitchen clean.
- Separate: Poultry, raw meat, eggs, and seafood should be kept apart from other foods. You should cut them with a separate board.
- Cook: Make sure meat is cooked to a temperature that kills bacteria that cause food poisoning using a food thermometer.
- Chill: Keep your refrigerator below 40 degrees. Rather than thawing frozen foods on the counter, place them in the refrigerator or microwave.