Constantly running to the bathroom with loose stools isn't anyone's idea of fun, but during an attack of diarrhea, that's the typical game plan. Diarrhea may be a symptom of an underlying disorder or the result of eating food that disagrees with your stomach. Consult a doctor about diarrhea that lasts longer than one day or that accompanies a high fever or other medical symptoms. If you're sure the loose stools are the result of offensive food, some home remedies might offer relief.
Restrict Food Triggers
The first step in alleviating diarrhea is eliminating the cause. The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine suggests reducing fats in the diets of individuals who experience chronic diarrhea. The consumption of milk and other dairy products may trigger diarrhea in individuals who find it difficult to digest the lactose present in milk. Drinking alcohol may also bring on a bout of loose stools. Spicy foods may trigger diarrhea in others.
In addition to the common triggers, an individual may develop diarrhea if he is sensitive to any food item. Over consumption of fruits and fresh vegetables may cause diarrhea in some. Eliminate all suspected food triggers from the diet and reintroduce them, one at a time to determine the cause of the problem.
Consume Soothing Foods
Raw pumpkin puree, added to cooked cereal, pudding or eaten plain might ease a bout of loose stools. In addition, try following the BRAT diet, which consists of bananas, rice, applesauce and toast, to soothe a grumbling tummy. Fruit-flavored gelatin makes a tasty treat that may assist in firming up loose stools, or munch on carrots, cooked or raw. Yogurt may alleviate diarrhea caused by taking antibiotics.
Rehydrate
A bout with diarrhea can cause excessive loss of bodily fluids, which you must promptly replace. Commercial fluid replacement liquids, such as Pedialyte, are available in grocery stores. Gale advocates a homemade recipe, adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO), which includes 3/4 tbsp. of table salt, 1 tsp. of baking powder, 1 cup of orange juice and 1 quart of water, for an acceptable rehydrating drink.
Handle Food Properly
Known as "traveler's diarrhea," poor food handling techniques may result in bacteria in foods, which can cause loose stools. At home, use separate cutting boards for the preparation of raw poultry and meats and wash them thoroughly after use. Wash all counters or utensils used to prepare raw meats with an antibacterial spray and launder the dishrag immediately. Wash your hands frequently while preparing meals and always after handling raw meat or poultry.
References
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2;" Jadqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Mother Nature: The Doctors Book of Home Remedies: Diarrhea
- Kids Health: Gastrointestinal Infections and Diarrhea
- Family Doctor: The BRAT Diet
