What kind of crackers stop diarrhea? A guide for relief

December 31, 2025 •

3 min read

Approximately 1 in 5 adults experience diarrhea annually, which can be addressed with simple dietary adjustments. Knowing what kind of crackers stop diarrhea is a practical strategy for managing symptoms in the short term.

Quick Summary

Plain, low-fiber crackers like saltines are recommended for soothing diarrhea. These are easy to digest, help absorb water, and replenish sodium. Rice crackers and water biscuits can also minimize digestive tract irritation.

Key Points

Plain Crackers: Choose unseasoned varieties like saltines, which won't irritate your digestive system.
Low-Fiber Crackers: Avoid high-fiber crackers with whole grains or seeds, as insoluble fiber can worsen diarrhea.
Sodium Content: The salt in crackers helps replace lost electrolytes from dehydration caused by watery stools.
Avoid High-Fat and Sugary Options: Fatty, fried, or sweet crackers are difficult to digest and can aggravate symptoms.
Stay Hydrated: Always pair crackers with plenty of clear fluids like water or broth to combat dehydration.
Temporary Use: Bland crackers are a temporary solution for symptom management, not a long-term nutritional staple.

Diarrhea, characterized by frequent, loose stools, is a common and uncomfortable condition. While hydration is essential, dietary changes are also key to symptom management and recovery. Certain bland foods, including specific types of crackers, are particularly beneficial because they are gentle on the stomach and help firm up the stool.

The Role of Crackers in Diarrhea Relief

Crackers are recommended because they offer properties that soothe an upset digestive system:

Blandness and Low Fiber Content

The primary benefit is their blandness and low fiber, which reduces the digestive workload. Crackers from refined white flour, such as saltines, lack insoluble fiber, which can worsen diarrhea. These simple starches are easy to digest, allowing the gut to recover.

Sodium Replenishment

Diarrhea can lead to fluid and electrolyte loss, especially sodium. Salty crackers help replenish this mineral, which is vital for maintaining fluid balance and preventing dehydration.

Binding Effect

Crackers' simple starches absorb excess fluid in the intestines. This helps to firm up loose stools, decreasing bowel movement frequency.

Best Types of Crackers to Consume

Plain crackers are the best choice. Here are some of the most recommended options:

Saltine Crackers: This is a classic choice, and the simple ingredients, low fiber, and salt content make them effective.
Plain Rice Crackers: A gluten-free option, very low in fiber, and easy to digest.
Water Biscuits: A low-fiber, plain cracker that is gentle on the stomach.
Unsalted Top Saltines: A variety with less salt can still provide the starchy benefits without the electrolyte boost if you need to watch your sodium intake.

Incorporating Crackers with the BRAT Diet

The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is a known remedy for diarrhea. Crackers fit into this framework as a toast substitute or a starch. Eating crackers with these foods can provide easily digestible calories while the digestive tract heals. This limited diet should only be followed for 24 to 48 hours to avoid nutritional deficiencies, as it lacks essential nutrients.

Crackers to Avoid During Diarrhea

Knowing which crackers to avoid is as important as choosing the right ones. Certain types can irritate your stomach and worsen symptoms:

High-Fiber Crackers: Avoid crackers with whole grains, seeds, or nuts. Insoluble fiber can speed up bowel movements when you have diarrhea.
Fatty or Fried Crackers: Crackers high in fat, such as many buttery or processed varieties, are difficult to digest and can exacerbate diarrhea.
Heavily Seasoned Crackers: Spicy or heavily flavored crackers contain additives that can irritate the stomach lining and digestive tract.
Sugary Crackers: Crackers with added sugar can pull water into the intestines and worsen symptoms. Avoid sweet varieties or those with high-fructose corn syrup.

Comparison: Recommended vs. Avoided Crackers for Diarrhea


Feature	Recommended Crackers	Crackers to Avoid
Type	Plain Saltines, Rice Crackers, Water Biscuits	Whole-grain, Multi-seed, Cheese-flavored, Fried
Fiber Content	Low	High (Insoluble)
Fat Content	Low	High (Buttery, Processed)
Flavoring	Unseasoned, Slightly Salty	Spicy, Sweet, Heavily Flavored
Benefit	Absorbs moisture, restores sodium	Irritates gut, speeds digestion

Conclusion

When diarrhea occurs, the right crackers can provide effective relief. Sticking to plain, low-fiber options like saltines is the best strategy for calming the stomach and replenishing lost salt. Pair these with plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, and gradually reintroduce a varied diet as symptoms improve. Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or are severe. Cleveland Clinic offers more dietary advice for managing diarrhea.

Foods to Eat With Crackers for Diarrhea Relief

Clear Broth: A hydrating, easy-to-digest liquid that complements salty crackers.
Applesauce: A BRAT diet component that contains pectin, a soluble fiber that can help bind stools.
Plain Scrambled Eggs: A low-fat protein source that is well-tolerated when you begin to reintroduce solids.
Small Portions of Banana: Another BRAT diet staple that provides potassium to replace lost electrolytes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, saltine crackers are one of the best choices for diarrhea because they are bland, low in fiber, and their salt content helps replenish lost electrolytes.

A good cracker for an upset stomach is bland, low in fiber, and not greasy or sugary. Simple starches and a bit of salt help calm the digestive tract and rebalance fluids.

No, it is best to avoid whole-grain crackers during a bout of diarrhea. Their high insoluble fiber content can increase bowel activity and worsen symptoms.

Eat crackers in small, frequent portions rather than large amounts at once. Listen to your body and consume them slowly to see how your stomach tolerates them.

While peanut butter is a bland food, it is also high in fat, which can be difficult to digest during diarrhea. It is best to stick with plain crackers and introduce fattier foods slowly as your symptoms improve.

Other bland options like applesauce, bananas, and clear broths pair well with crackers. These foods are easy on the stomach and part of the BRAT diet approach.

If diarrhea persists for over a couple of days, or if you experience severe pain, high fever, or notice blood in your stool, consult a doctor.