How Can I Prevent Diarrhea?

Do you wash your hands with warm water and soap for about 20 seconds, or if water and soap are not available to you, do you use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer?

Do you always wash your hands before eating and after using the bathroom?

Do you always wash your hands after touching pets?

Do you keep your kitchen countertops and all kitchen utensils clean?

Do you avoid eating undercooked meat or seafood, as well as uncooked eggs?

Do wash all fruits and vegetables before cooking or eating them?

Do you store all perishable food properly in the refrigerator or freezer?

Do you avoid dairy products that are not pasteurized?

Do you eat foods that contain probiotics (yogurt, kefir)?

If you travel to developing countries, do you drink only bottled water (even for brushing your teeth), do you avoid eating food from street vendors and eat only those fruits or vegetables that are cooked or can be peeled?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways that can help you prevent diarrhea. Good hygiene and regular hand washing are extremely important. You should always wash your hands before eating, after using the toilet and after contact with pets. Wash your hands with warm water and soap for about 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer that contains alcohol. Food can contain bacteria that cause diarrhea, so it is necessary to wash all fruits and vegetables before cooking or eating them. You should avoid eating undercooked meat or uncooked eggs (sometimes used as a dressing for salads), as well as unpasteurized dairy products.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about how to prevent diarrhea. Bacterial foodborne infections are often the cause of diarrhea, so it is necessary to store all perishable food properly in the refrigerator or freezer. Your kitchen countertops and all kitchen utensils should be kept clean. You should stay away from sick people. You can eat food that contains probiotics, because it contributes to a healthy balance of "good" bacteria in your intestines. This is especially important if you are taking antibiotics. If you are traveling to another country, do not drink tap water and eat fresh food unless you are sure it is safe.