fiber

Question
I have cronic diareha, have had it for years. My doctor has ruled out any medical reasons and because I have depression it has been chalked up to having a nervous stomach. People have suggested to me I should add more fiber to my diet. Would this be the thing to do,or will it make my problem worse?  

Answer
Dear Ray,

Soluble fibers (e.g., oatmeal) can help you, insoluble ones (e.g., bran) can make the problem worse. Russian folk medicine advises drinks that made thicker with potato or corn starch.

Take any liquid you like except too sour like tomato or orange juices, brink to boiling 3/4 cup. In 1/4 cup of cold water or same liquid, mix 1 tablespoon of starch. As the boiling begins, slowly pour in the cold liquid with the starch, constantly stirring. Remove from heat as soon as the liquid thickens. Drink at room temperature, sweetened or not. The best drink for your problem is made of 1 tablespoon of dry blueberries cooked in 1.5 cup of water, then thickened as described.

Tanya Zilberter, PhD

1. Prev:food for energy, lean mass
2. Next:Chewing Gum?