What Causes Diarrhea?
Diarrhea is when you have loose, watery stools more often than usual. It can leave you feeling tired and dehydrated, but it’s usually short-lived. Common causes include:
- Infections: Viruses, bacteria, or food poisoning.
- Digestive issues: Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or lactose intolerance.
- Medications: Some antibiotics, diabetes medications, or other treatments can cause diarrhea as a side effect.
- Dietary changes: Eating foods high in fat, sugar, or spicy ingredients may upset your gut.
- Stress or anxiety: Your gut can react to emotional stress.
Home Remedies to Help
If you’re dealing with diarrhea, these tips can help you feel better and avoid dehydration:
- Stay Hydrated: Diarrhea can cause fluid loss, so sip small amounts of water, clear broths, or electrolyte drinks throughout the day.
- Follow the BRAT Diet: Stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods until symptoms improve:some text
- Bananas
- Rice (white rice)
- Applesauce
- Toast (plain or lightly buttered)
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Stay away from spicy, greasy, sugary, or high-fiber foods, as these can worsen diarrhea.
- Eat Smaller, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller portions can be gentler on your digestive system.
- Add Probiotics: Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt (plain, unsweetened) or kefir can help restore healthy gut bacteria.
- Rest: Give your body time to recover by taking it easy and avoiding strenuous activity.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Diarrhea usually clears up on its own, but you should seek medical help if:
- It lasts more than 2 days.
- You notice blood in your stool.
- You feel weak, dizzy, or show signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, or little to no urine).
- You have a high fever or severe abdominal pain.