Q. Protein Requirement in chronic diarrhoea?
Requirements are increased only in chronic diarrhoea because of associated tissue depletion. An additional 10 g of protein may be recommended above the normal requirements. Milk a source of good quality protein is restricted as it is a high residue food or if it is anticipated that diarrhoea may have developed due to relative deficiency of lactase in the gastrointestinal tract. Milk in the fermented form like curds is better tolerated, as it is easy to digest and helps in maintaining the gut health. Other cooked and diluted milk products like a light porridge; paneer etc can also be tolerated in small amounts. Apart from these, easily assimilated protein-rich foods like minced meat, egg, skimmed milk and its preparations can be given.