Diarrhea from antibacterials, also known as antibiotic-associated diarrhea, is a result of medications used to treat bacterial infections, which upset the balance of beneficial and potentially dangerous bacteria in your intestine. It is usually mild and doesn't require medical treatment, however, Mayo Clinic warns that if you experience frequent, watery diarrhea, fever, pus or blood in your stools, or nausea you should call your doctor immediately. For an ordinary case of mild, uncomplicated antibiotic-associated diarrhea, there are practical and simple home remedies you can use.
Mayo Clinic Suggestions
Mayo Clinic recommends drinking plenty of liquids--such as water, fluids with added electrolytes, broth and watered-down fruit juice--to avoid dehydration, while eating small servings of soft, easy-to-digest foods, such as applesauce. Avoid spicy or greasy foods, alcohol and caffeine. Also avoid diet candies and gums, which contain sorbitol; the sweetener has a laxative effect.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a common ingredient in many home remedies for diarrhea. Easy Home Remedy suggests taking 1 tsp. of powdered turmeric in a glass of water or buttermilk. There is some scientific research supporting the use of turmeric to treat loose bowels. In a clinical study conducted at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center and published in the October 2009 issue of Digestive Diseases and Sciences, researchers found that curcumin, the organic extract of turmeric, rapidly and completely resolved cases of HIV-related diarrhea, while not interfering with anti-retroviral therapy.
Ginger
Ginger is a popular ingredient in home remedies for diarrhea. According to Natural Home Remedies, you can add 1 tsp. of ginger juice to 4 oz. boiling water, then take sips of the hot mixture at half-hour intervals. There is some scientific evidence to support the use of ginger for diarrhea. A study conducted at China Medical University and published in 2007 in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showed that ginger significantly reduced diarrhea in mice infected with the E. Coli pathogen, a common cause of diarrhea.
Bananas
Many people use bananas to control loose stools and diarrhea. According to Health 911, you should eat them ripe, chewing well and eating very slowly. Bananas are easily digested, help the body to replace needed potassium, and contain fiber in the form of pectin.
Brown Rice
Health 911 advises eating a bowlful of cooked brown rice, being sure to chew thoroughly to help stimulate your body's digestive enzymes. Brown rice contains fiber to absorb excess fluids in the intestine and produce firmer bowel movements.
Honey
Natural Home Remedies suggests taking 4 tbsp. honey mixed in 8 oz. water. According to Whole Foods, honey contains 10 different types of beneficial bacteria--six species of lactobacilli and four of bifidobacteria.
Black and Green Teas
From Health 911 comes the suggestion of consuming nothing but black or green tea for 6 to 12 hours to control diarrhea. The tannins in the tea have an astringent quality which helps to tighten bowels.
