Diarrhea can happen for a few reasons, none of which are pleasant. It’s particularly concerning for young children and infants, as it can be dangerous. Let’s explore what causes diarrhea and some home remedies that might help.
Normally, it’s good to have a bowel movement once or twice a day, but diarrhea is when your stools become loose and watery. This can happen for a few hours to several days. If it lasts at least three times a day for four weeks, it’s considered chronic according to Health and Human Services.
While constipation is when you can’t go at all, diarrhea is the complete opposite. Often, diarrhea is a sign that your body is trying to flush out toxins from a virus or bacteria, like when you’re sick or have food poisoning. It’s a way for your body to cleanse itself, so sometimes, it’s better to let it run its course for a brief period. However, you should stay hydrated and if it continues for several days or originates from a chronic condition, more action is needed.
Diarrhea can result from various causes, and understanding the root can help you choose the right treatment:
Travelers often experience diarrhea when visiting places with poor public hygiene, especially in developing countries in Africa and parts of Asia, as Johns Hopkins notes.
Eating raw or undercooked foods, particularly meats, can lead to digestive issues due to microorganisms. It’s important to ensure that these foods are properly handled and cooked.
Stomach viruses, also known as viral gastroenteritis, are common and uncomfortable, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
When the gut lining gets inflamed, it can lead to conditions like Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis, both associated with diarrhea.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects about 10-20% of Americans and can cause diarrhea or constipation, damaging the gastrointestinal tract.
While antibiotics are sometimes necessary, they can have downsides, including diarrhea. They can also lead to infections like C. diff, which is highly contagious.
In children under five, rotavirus can cause diarrhea, but severe cases have reduced thanks to better anti-diarrheal medications.
Food intolerances, like sensitivity to dairy, can trigger diarrhea, and healing the gut might help. Some sugars, grouped as FODMAPS, aren’t well-digested by some people and can cause issues.
Diseases like Crohn’s, rheumatoid arthritis, and Kawasaki disease also list diarrhea among their symptoms.
Children can have diarrhea for the same reasons adults do, although they’re less likely to suffer from autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s. Their immature digestive systems often mean diarrhea resolves itself, though it can sometimes lead to dehydration or complications.
If diarrhea occurs in children, ensure they stay hydrated. For babies, it often goes away on its own if you keep them drinking plenty of fluids. Breastfeeding mothers should continue nursing, as breastmilk contains antibodies that help with infections and diarrhea. Electrolyte drinks, either store-bought or homemade, support dehydration prevention.
There are plenty of over-the-counter options to treat diarrhea, like Pepto-Bismol or Imodium, but natural remedies can also help.
Avoid spicy, caffeinated, or high-fiber foods that are hard to digest. Instead, think simple. The BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (I prefer adding broth)—is often recommended for easing diarrhea.
If the cause is chronic, like IBS or Crohn’s, the treatment might differ slightly.
Probiotics are crucial post-antibiotics to support gut health and reduce diarrhea. Our family focuses on fermented foods, and we use probiotic supplements when needed. Charcoal can absorb toxins if food poisoning occurs, while ginger is useful for calming digestive upset. Chamomile tea also soothes the gut.
Ginger is known for aiding digestion, and acupressure or moxibustion could help too. Sumac, rich in vitamin C and beneficial for inflammation, is great for calming diarrhea.
In conclusion, while diarrhea is inconvenient, there are various home remedies to manage it. If symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen, consult with a doctor, especially important for young children and infants. Have you tried any remedies that worked well for you? Feel free to share your experiences!
