1. It's More Than Just Once a Day
Diarrhea is excessive when it happens more than twice per day. Diarrhea is loose and frequent watery stools. Symptoms of diarrhea also include gas, cramping and bloating. Excessive diarrhea depletes the body of certain minerals, called electrolytes, that keep our bodies functioning normally. When the body loses these minerals, tiredness, irritability, irregular heart rhythm and dehydration can result. Absorption of these mineral takes place in the intestine, so excessive diarrhea can really take a toll on the body.
2. Bacteria Can Be the Culprit
Bacteria in the water we drink and the foods we eat often cause excessive diarrhea. These bacteria, called protozoa, are one celled organisms that live in water or other moist habitats. Some of them are beneficial to man and eat harmful bacteria. They are also a food source for fish and other animals. Other protozoa are harmful and cause disease. Thorough cooking kills bacteria in food, but sometimes protozoa still get through due to improper washing of fresh fruits and veggies or impure drinking water. This is especially true when you're traveling over seas or to third world countries.
3. Viruses Cause Excessive Diarrhea
Viruses entering the digestive tract through contaminated food or water results in Gastroenteritis. Gastroenteritis causes vomiting, diarrhea, inflammation, cramping and nausea. These viruses usually last a few days and are often referred to as stomach flu. Dehydration is always a danger when a stomach virus persists, so be sure and drink plenty of fluids or beverages with electrolytes.
4. Prescription Medications Are a Factor
Some prescription medicines cause diarrhea. This is especially true of antibiotics. Antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria. Feed your digestive tract probiotic foods like yogurt, with live and active cultures and acidophilus when taking antibiotics. If other prescription drugs cause excessive diarrhea it may be a sign of a severe reaction. Consult your doctor if you experience this kind of side effect.
5. The Wrong Foods and Chemicals Cause Excessive Diarrhea
Too many fats or fruits contribute to excessive diarrhea. This is also true of low carbohydrate diets with high levels of animal protein. Many low carbohydrate foods use lacitol or sorbitol as a sweetener. These substances come from sugar alcohol and can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea is also a result of certain residues on the food we eat. Dishwashing detergent and pesticides both leave diarrhea causing residue. This is especially dangerous in small children. It's important to thoroughly rinse all fruits and vegetable before eating. Dishes and utensils washed by hand need extra thorough rinsing to remove residue from liquid dish soap.
