Reaction: Can You Eat Candy Bars to Stop Diarrhea?

When I first saw the headline “Can You Eat Candy Bars to Stop Diarrhea?”, I thought it had to be a joke. But no—this was an actual column from People’s Pharmacy, a widely read syndicated feature. My wife even tore it out of the paper and handed it to me with a raised eyebrow. And I get it. The idea of using candy bars as a treatment for digestive issues sounds absurd on the surface.

But let’s break it down—because there’s actually something interesting going on here.

What Do Macaroons and Mounds Have in Common?

The article referenced people who reported some relief from diarrhea after eating macaroons or Mounds bars. While no one is claiming this is a cure, it raises the question: what do these two treats have in common?

✅ Coconut.

And here’s where it actually gets a little scientific.

Coconut’s Secret Weapon: Caprylic Acid

Coconut contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), one of which is caprylic acid. This compound has antimicrobial properties—meaning it may help reduce the overgrowth of certain bacteria or even Candida (a type of yeast that can live in the digestive tract).

Caprylic acid has been studied for its ability to break down the protective membranes of pathogens and yeasts. So, if someone is experiencing diarrhea due to bacterial imbalance or Candida overgrowth, it’s plausible that coconut could help reduce the microbial load.

BUT—and this is a big but—

Sugar: The Double-Edged Sword

Mounds bars and macaroons don’t just contain coconut. They’re also loaded with sugar, which is one of the worst things you can consume if you’re dealing with gut dysbiosis (an imbalance in your microbiome).

Sugar feeds Candida. It feeds the very bacteria that might be causing your digestive issues in the first place. So, trying to treat your gut with coconut wrapped in sugar is kind of like putting out a fire with gasoline.

Sure, you might get a temporary reprieve, but long-term, you’re feeding the problem.

A Smarter Approach

So what’s the takeaway here?

Yes, coconut has potential gut-healing benefits. But coconut itself, in its raw or minimally processed form (like unsweetened coconut flakes or pure coconut oil), is a far better choice than candy.

If you’re trying to address diarrhea that may be linked to microbial imbalance, it’s essential to address the root cause—and not just chase temporary relief with sugar-coated band-aids.

Want a Better Gut Reset?

At the IBS DOCTOR ORG, we specialize in digging deep to find out why your gut is acting up in the first place. Is it Candida? Bacterial overgrowth? A hidden food intolerance?

Whatever the case may be, we don’t treat symptoms with sugar—we treat causes with science. Since 2005, we’ve helped thousands of people worldwide get to the root of their digestive issues via telemedicine.

If you’re ready to stop chasing gimmicks and start solving your gut problems for real, give us a contact. We’ll help you get your gut (and your life) back on track.