Treatment of Diarrhea

Diarrhea can be caused due to a variety of factors both natural and artificial; from overeating or food poisoning, to stimulant laxatives or antibiotics and of course due to viral, bacterial or parasitic infection, or even because of certain drugs. Diarrhea can be more than just awkward in social situations, but it can also be quite painful or rather debilitating to a certain extent because it leaves you feeling drained and exhausted. In most cases however diarrhea is mild and if treated should be no cause for worry.




Diarrhea resolves naturally in most cases but the main aim of the treatment needs to be focused on preventing dehydration. The main threat is not diarrhea itself, but dehydration brought about due to dehydration. The best way to combat dehydration is by boosting your fluid intake with clear natural fluids like water and fresh fruit juices.


Avoid caffeinated and carbonated drinks as they will have the opposite effect. Dehydration is particularly serious and worrying when the affected individual is a child or aged.

Although there are plenty of over the counter medications for diarrhea it would be best to stick to natural options that pose little risk.
Try to avoid the consumption of any solid foods for at least twelve to twenty four hours, and if very mild it may suffice to simply avoid whole grain cereals and raw foods.

• In addition to water and fruit juices it would also help to drink herbal teas, sports drinks and electrolyte solutions. Electrolyte solutions are particularly effective and useful in serious situations as they replenish lost nutrients very swiftly.

• Instead of devouring raw fruits and vegetable try and consume cooked varieties particularly carrots and applesauce.

• Yogurt or curd with an active culture can also be very effective in most cases of diarrhea. Unprocessed curd or active culture varieties have a type of bacteria present in them which is beneficial for your health. Lactobacilli are normally present in healthy intestines and help control any harmful bacterial activity.

• Bananas and low fiber grains like flour and white rice may also prove to be a good addition.

• Pectin, which is a constituent of apple skin, is a soluble fiber that adds bulk and holds together stools. You can consume it by simply adding unpeeled apples when making a milkshake or make an apple bake with the peels on.

If the diarrhea is persistent and shows no sign of improvement or if there is a worsening of the condition, make sure you get immediate medical attention as prolonged diarrhea can be very serious.