Are Eggs Good for Upset Stomach and Diarrhea?

December 11, 2025 •

4 min read

According to Medical News Today, eggs are generally considered easy to digest and can be a safe protein option for many people dealing with digestive issues like an upset stomach or diarrhea. However, the way eggs are prepared and individual sensitivities can significantly impact how they are tolerated..

Quick Summary

This article explores the safety and benefits of consuming eggs during digestive distress. It highlights how preparation methods affect digestibility and provides guidance on incorporating them into a bland diet. Individual sensitivities are also addressed, helping you make informed decisions for your gut health.

Key Points

Easy to Digest: Properly prepared eggs, such as boiled or poached, are generally easy to digest and provide high-quality protein during digestive upset.
Avoid Fat: Cooking eggs with excessive oil, butter, or cheese can make them hard to digest and worsen diarrhea symptoms. Fried eggs should be avoided.
Nutrient-Dense: Eggs are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and protein, which are vital for energy and recovery during illness.
Individual Sensitivity: People with egg intolerance, allergies, or certain conditions like IBS may experience adverse effects and should exercise caution.
Start Slow: When reintroducing solid foods, begin with small portions of blandly prepared eggs to monitor your body's reaction.
Hydration is Key: Always prioritize staying hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks, as eggs alone are not a substitute for lost fluids.

Can Eggs Help Soothe an Upset Stomach?

When dealing with an upset stomach or diarrhea, the key is to choose foods that are bland and easy to digest. Unlike high-fat, spicy, or high-fiber foods that can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, properly prepared eggs can be a gentle source of nutrition. Eggs offer a highly digestible form of protein, which is vital for providing energy and repairing the body's tissues during illness without overtaxing the digestive system.

For most individuals, eggs are well-tolerated and can help firm up stools, which is particularly beneficial when experiencing diarrhea. The protein in eggs is a 'complete protein,' containing all the essential amino acids your body needs, making it an efficient source of nourishment during recovery. Furthermore, eggs contain vitamins and minerals like selenium, zinc, and vitamin D that support overall health.

The Importance of Preparation: Boiled vs. Fried Eggs

The way an egg is cooked is the most crucial factor in its suitability for an upset stomach. Cooking methods that add significant amounts of oil, butter, or cheese can make eggs much harder to digest, as fats can slow down digestion and potentially exacerbate symptoms.

Boiled or Poached Eggs: These are the best options for a sensitive stomach. They are prepared without any added fat, making them a simple, protein-rich food that is easy for the body to break down. Hard-boiled eggs can be eaten alone or mashed and added to plain toast for a more substantial meal.
Scrambled Eggs: This can also be a good option, but you should use a minimal amount of low-fat milk and avoid butter or heavy cream. Overloading scrambled eggs with cheese or cooking them in excessive oil can counteract their digestive benefits.
Fried Eggs: These should be avoided entirely. The added fats and oils from frying can be very difficult for a sensitive digestive system to process, leading to increased discomfort.

The Role of Eggs in a Bland Diet

Traditionally, the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) was recommended for digestive issues, but modern nutritional advice suggests a more balanced bland diet. This broader diet incorporates other easily digestible foods, including cooked eggs, lean meats, and plain cereals, to provide more complete nutrition for a faster recovery. Eggs can be a valuable addition to this updated approach by offering essential protein without the high fiber or fat content of many other protein sources.

Comparison: Eggs vs. Common Diarrhea Foods


Food Item	Digestibility	Protein Content	Notes for Upset Stomach/Diarrhea
Well-cooked eggs (boiled/poached)	High	High	Excellent source of protein, easy to digest, can help bind stools.
Plain White Rice	High	Low	Very easy to digest, low in fiber, part of the traditional BRAT diet.
Bananas	High	Low	Excellent source of potassium, low fiber, helps firm stools.
Toast (White Bread)	High	Low	Low-fiber and easy to digest. Best without butter.
Lean Chicken Breast	High	High	Good source of protein, but ensure it is baked or boiled, not fried.
Full-Fat Dairy (Milk, Cheese)	Low	Varies	Often poorly tolerated due to lactose. Should generally be avoided.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While eggs are a good option for most, there are important exceptions to consider. Individuals with a pre-existing egg intolerance or allergy should obviously avoid them, as this will only worsen symptoms. An intolerance, which is different from an allergy, can also cause gastrointestinal upset, gas, and bloating.

Additionally, for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), eggs may act as a trigger, though they are considered a low-FODMAP food. It's crucial to listen to your body and introduce eggs slowly to see how your digestive system reacts. As advised by MedicineNet, if eggs seem to worsen your loose motions, it's best to consult a physician.

Reintroducing Eggs Gradually

When your stomach begins to settle, you can reintroduce bland foods like eggs into your diet. Start with small portions and simple preparations. You can pair a single boiled egg with plain white rice or dry toast to minimize potential irritation. If your symptoms do not return, you can gradually increase your intake. This slow reintroduction process helps your digestive system readjust to solid foods without causing a relapse of your symptoms.

Conclusion: How to Safely Incorporate Eggs

For most people experiencing an upset stomach or diarrhea, eggs can be a beneficial and easy-to-digest food choice. As long as they are prepared properly—boiled, poached, or lightly scrambled without excess fat—they provide a much-needed source of high-quality protein and nutrients. However, it is vital to listen to your body and be aware of any individual sensitivities or pre-existing conditions like IBS or egg intolerance. By starting with small, bland portions and observing your body's reaction, you can safely enjoy eggs as part of your recovery diet.

Ultimately, hydration and a balanced, bland diet are the top priorities during digestive distress. The decision to include eggs should always be approached with caution and adjusted based on personal tolerance. For more information on dietary recommendations during illness, refer to reliable medical sources such as MedlinePlus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Scrambled eggs can be a good option if they are cooked simply with minimal or no added butter, cheese, or heavy cream. Avoid high-fat additions that can irritate a sensitive stomach.

No, fried eggs are not recommended. The high-fat content from frying can be difficult for your digestive system to process and may worsen diarrhea symptoms.

Yes, well-cooked eggs can help slow down bowel movements for many people. The low-fiber, high-protein content can contribute to binding and firming loose stools.

The best methods are boiling or poaching, as they require no added fats or oils. These preparations keep the eggs simple and highly digestible.

If you have a known egg intolerance or allergy, you should avoid eggs entirely. In such cases, consuming eggs can cause symptoms like bloating, cramping, and diarrhea.

For many, yes. Dairy products contain lactose, which can be difficult for a sensitive digestive system to break down and often worsens diarrhea. Eggs are generally a safer, more tolerable protein source.

While not a traditional BRAT food, eggs are a common addition to a modern, bland diet recommended for recovery. They provide valuable protein that the classic BRAT diet lacks.