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 by Dr. Rita Louise
When we eat, food is mixed with large amounts of water and fluid in the stomach. It then travels through the small intestines where nutrients are absorbed. The digested food then moves into the colon where water is extracted and what remains is a semi-solid stool. If the colon doesn’t absorb sufficient fluids or if the digestive system produces too much, our stool will be loose, resulting in a watery bowel movement - diarrhea.
People of all ages can have diarrhea. Usually it means urgent, frequent trips to the bathroom with a greater stool volume. At times, cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, nausea or vomiting can accompany it. Sometimes individuals also experience a fever or bloody stools. For the most part, if the diarrhea goes away by itself, within a day or two, there is no need for concern. If, however, it persists for over two weeks, then there may be a deeper health condition that should be addressed.
The most common causes of diarrhea are viral or bacterial toxins, food poisoning and parasites. These usually represent the acute form of diarrhea, which can last up to a couple of weeks. Diarrhea can take on a more chronic form which is typified by digestive disturbances that last more than four weeks. Typically there is an underlying disorder that contributes to this form, including Crohn’s Disease, food intolerances (celiac disease, lactose intolerance), irritable bowel syndrome, colitis and reactions to medications. Sometimes heredity and surgery (such as the remove of the gallbladder) can be the cause as well.
Fortunately, there are a number natural and alternative health remedies you can try to help get bouts of diarrhea under control.
Recommendations For Wellness
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Most importantly, drink lots of water, preferably with electrolytes, to replace the water and salts that have been lost. This prevents dehydration.
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Avoid beverages containing caffeine (such as tea, coffee and soft drinks) and ones containing alcohol. Also, eliminate foods such as dairy products, raw vegetables, acidic fruits, whole-grain cereals, sugary foods, strong spices, and fried fatty foods. Each of these can be rough on the digestive system.
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Eat foods that are easy to digest, including clear soup, crackers, rice, potatoes, applesauce (not juice) and bananas.
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When traveling to developing countries, avoid drinking the tap water or eating uncooked or undercooked foods, ice, or fruits that cannot be peeled to prevent a parasitic infection.
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To rule out food intolerances that may contribute to diarrhea, try an elimination diet.
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Juice from pomegranates has long been used to relieve diarrhea.
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Teas from herbs such as blackberry and raspberry leaf have a binding effect on the mucous membranes of the intestine and help the body absorb fluids, while reducing inflammation.
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While typically thought of when talking about constipation, soluble fiber, including psyllium can help to absorb the excess fluid in the intestine as it adds bulk to your stool.
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Chamomile tea is an age -old remedy for calming the nerves and may reduce intestinal cramping and ease irritation and inflammation.
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Ginger root in tea or capsule form can eliminate the discomfort, nausea and cramping often associated with diarrhea.
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Take a tablespoon of natural apple cider vinegar every hour until the diarrhea resolves. The use of apple cider vinegar also helps to replenish the potassium and magnesium that are often lost with diarrhea.
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Folic acid can be used to help repair any damage to the intestinal lining.
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Note: If you suffer from Crohn’s disease or any chronic gastrointestinal disorder, avoid blackberry leaf and supplements that contain soluble fiber.
This information is provided for educational purposes only.
The descriptions of nurtritional supplements are based on the historical usage of the various ingredients. They are not intended to promote any direct or implied health claims, and actual results of usage can vary.
The statements on this Web site have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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