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Natural Cure for Diarrhea

Diarrhea is characterized by unusually loose, large volume or liquidy stools. People

with diarrhea often have frequent bowel movements, occurring more than three times

in one day. However, whether or not you have diarrhea is influenced by your normal,

baseline bowel habits.

Natural Remedies for Diarrhea:

The following natural substances may help ease some of the symptoms associated

with diarrhea.

1) Probiotics

Common antibiotic medications are known to wipe out beneficial bacteria (called

probiotics) that contribute to a healthy digestive system. In some cases, this disruptionin the natural balance of "good" and "bad" bacteria may result in diarrhea. Found in

certain foods (such as yogurt and kefir), probiotics are also available in supplement

form.

In a 2006 meta-analysis of 31 studies (including a total of 3,164 patients), researchers

concluded that use of three types of (Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus

rhamnosus GG, and probiotic mixtures) significantly reduced the development of

antibiotic-associated diarrhea. More about probiotics.

2) Chamomile

In a 2009 study, chamomile was found to inhibit the growth of a species of bacteria

called Campylobacter jejuni (one of the most common causes of enteric infections

resulting in severe diarrhea). Available in tea form, chamomile is also thought to help

relieve abdominal cramping and alleviate inflammation associated with diarrhea.

3) Carob

Said to soothe irritation in the intestines, carob may be especially beneficial for

children with diarrhea. Carob is sold in powder form at most health-food stores.

Symptoms of Diarrhea

Diarrhea is often accompanied by an upset stomach and/or the following symptoms:

abdominal cramping and/or bloating

discomfort around the anus

chills

fever

an urgent need to have a bowel movement

nausea/vomiting

Causes of Diarrhea

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In many cases, no cause for diarrhea can be found and often symptoms will pass with

no treatment needed. However, the following are common causes for the condition:

infection with bacteria, viruses, or parasites

food intolerance

use of certain medications (such as antibiotics) malignancy

diseases that affect sphincter function

diseases that affect the digestive system (such as Crohn's disease) or irritable

bowel syndrome

When to See a Doctor

Diarrhea is usually not harmful, and often subsides within a few days. In some cases,

however, diarrhea may signal a serious health problem. Therefore, it's important to

consult your physician if your diarrhea lasts longer than three days, or if you alsoexperience any of the following:

signs of dehydration (such as intense thirst, fatigue, dizziness, and dark-

colored urine)

severe pain in your abdomen or rectum

fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher

stools that are blood or black and tarry

Treatment

In many cases, treatment of diarrhea should focus on replacing lost fluids and salts(by consuming broth, soup, fruit juices, and soft fruits and vegetables, for instance).

Avoiding certain foods (such as dairy products, high-fat foods, high-fiber foods, and

sugary foods) can also help ease your symptoms.