Stomach Cramps and Diarrhea

Stomach Cramps and Diarrhea The unpleasant symptoms of diarrhea, stomach pain and cramps are a nearly inescapable part of life. The sudden onset of these symptoms often signals the presence of an infection. The common causes include bacteria, viruses and parasites. When stomach pain and diarrhea occur frequently and last for a long time it often indicates underlying chronic digestive disorder which requires further evaluation. Simple home remedies can help relieve mild symptoms.

Causes of Stomach Cramps and Diarrhea
1. Food Poisoning
This condition results from the improper preparation, storage and handling of food. Contamination from viruses, bacteria, parasites or even just a toxins these organisms release causes diarrhea and stomach cramps.

Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low-grade fever, decreased appetite and fatigue. Severe cases can cause bloody diarrhea and must be quickly evaluated by a physician. Fortunately food poisoning is often self-limited, but young children and elderly persons may need medical care such as IV fluids and anti-nausea medicine.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The intestines are lined with muscles that contract to propel the food contents through the digestive tract. When the muscles contract to slowly, the food and digestive products become stagnant and Constipation is often the result. On the other hand, too rapid transit through the intestinal tract results in improper absorption and diarrhea. Both conditions can produce gas, bloating, diarrhea, stomach cramps and pain and even produce Mucus in stool.

3. Lactose Intolerance
Dairy products, including milk and yogurt, contain a sugar called lactose. Certain persons are intolerant of lactose and the symptoms include bloating, excess gas and flatulence and stomach cramps. There are some over-the-counter products that help aid lactose digestion, but for those with severe intolerance avoidance is the best solution.

4. Crohn's Disease
This is a serious disease causing inflammation of the digestive tract. The small intestine is most often affected. The ileum is often involved and symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, joint pains, Malabsorption, Weight Loss and fever.

5. Gastroenteritis
This generic term implies inflammation in the intestinal track. It is caused by viruses, bacteria or the toxins generated from the bacteria themselves. Common symptoms include watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps and pain, vomiting and also muscle aches. Sometimes a low-grade fever can accompany gastroenteritis. Most the time symptoms resolve their own with proper care such a hydration and eating a bland diet.

6. Other Causes
A variety of other causes can result in abdominal pain and cramps. Common causes include: traveler’s diarrhea, diverticulosis, diverticulosis, antibiotic use, drug toxicity, hypoThyroidism and a variety of other infections caused by bacteria such as Salmonella, Shigella or Cholera.

Remedies for Stomach Cramps and Diarrhea
Many times a simple change in your diet and lifestyle will provide significant relief for stomach cramps and diarrhea.

1. OTC Medications

Over-the-counter acid reducers such as antacids can help with stomach pain, cramps and bloating. Antacids can even neutralize the amount of acid in your stomach or actually cut down the production of the acids by your stomach. Be aware that some antacids can worsen constipation. Be sure to drink plenty of water. When a person finds himself or herself relying on these medications on a frequent basis, it’s time to see a doctor.

2. Cumin

The health benefits of cumin extend beyond helping with abdominal cramps and pain. Try adding cumin seeds to boiling water to create hot cumin tea. Ready-made options are available in many health food stores as well. Also try adding ¼ teaspoon of powdered cumin in a glass of buttermilk. Mix in ¼ teaspoon of black pepper and drink this three times a day to alleviated cramps and pain.

3. Ginger

Ginger has been used for centuries to help digestive processes. Ginger helps soothe nausea and is helpful in pregnancy. Ginger has potent anti-inflammatory properties to alleviate Arthritis pain and Stress. Try finely chopping ginger and seeping with your favorite tealeaves for 2-3 minutes. Chewing on candied ginger sLices during the day will also ease stomach distress.

4. Peppermint/ Chamomile Tea

Brew traditional peppermint or chamomile tea to soothe stomach problems. Mint also is an excellent remedy. Add a small amount of honey to improve the taste. These are ideal when you’re sick, have eaten too much or are affected by the flu.

5. Baking soda

Baking soda is an acid reducing remedy. Place one-half teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of lukewarm water. Make sure to mix thoroughly and drink the solution. Try another half a glass in 30 minutes if the symptoms persist.

6. Orange peel tea

Chop an organic orange peel. Put it into a pot and boil with 1 pint of water. After it is cool, add a splash of honey or sugar. This will aid in digestion and relieve stomach cramps and gas.

7. Fenugreek seeds

Mix one half-teaspoon Fenugreek seeds with water and drink the mixture. This works well for adults with diarrhea, but the safety and benefit in children has yet to be established. Be wary if you have ongoing chronic diarrhea. It’s time to see a doctor.

8. Blueberries

Blueberries are among nature’s most potent antioxidants. The also possess antibacterial properties and are useful in combating diarrhea. Swedish doctors regularly prescribe a cup of dried blueberry soup to help with intestinal problems. Blueberry root also works well for relieving diarrhea.

When to See a Doctor
When a persistent change in bowel habits develops, or if there are other signs such as severe pain, fever or blood in the stool, it is time to see a doctor. Serious conditions, such as colon Cancer, are best treated early on in the disease process.

Your doctor can search for the cause of symptoms, rule out other potentially more serious or dangerous conditions and recommend appropriate ways to alleviate your symptoms.

7 Common Causes of Morning Diarrhea

7 Common Causes of Morning Diarrhea You may be experiencing the rapid bowel movement every morning and the urgent need to pass feces in the morning hours. Maybe, the same thing is even disrupting your sleep in the morning hours. However, when you visit the toilet to pass the feces, the discharge is watery. You need not to worry because this condition is affecting many people. While this condition is not an indicator of a particular condition, it may be associated with a number of gastrointestinal conditions. Some of the conditions include the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

What Causes Diarrhea Every Morning?

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Being one of the most common causes of morning diarrhea, IBS is the first condition that the doctor will diagnose for if you complain of diarrhea. The condition occurs when the intestines fail to contract as they are supposed to and is mainly caused by dietary problems. IBS may also be caused by allergic reactions to certain goods.

As such, a simple change in your eating habits, such as eating healthier or having your evening meals earlier, can actually solve the problem. While suffering from this condition, you should also consider including bananas and yogurts with active and live cultures in your diet.

2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD is a rather chronic infection, affecting the bowel wall. There are two main types of the IBD, the ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease. The infection causes the walls of the bowels to become inflamed. Some of the symptoms associated with this infection include a watery diarrhea with traces of blood or mucous. IBD normally occurs in acute episodes and may worsen at certain times. While the condition may not worsen in the morning, the diarrhea will start from the time you wake up. The diarrhea may even interrupt your sleep in the morning.

3. Bacteria and Viruses
In other cases, diarrhea every morning may be a result of a bacterial or viral infection. These mainly enter the body through contaminated food. While such bacteria and viruses, such as E. coli, or even standard food Poisoning may lead to both diarrhea and vomiting throughout the day, the problem is more rampant during the morning hours. This is particularly the case when the infection is mild or if you ingested the contaminated food or drink before going to bed the previous day.

4. Reactions to Medication
There are certain medications, specifically antibiotics, which may be associated with morning diarrhea. Diarrhea resulting from the reaction by the body to a certain medication may occur any time of the day. However, the problem is more common in the morning. While sleeping, most of the body organs tend to go to a dormant state. After waking up, the various organs become active and may react to a medication that had been circulating in the bloodstream the whole night. This is likely to cause diarrhea in the early hours of the day.

5. Substance Misuse
Abusing certain substances may also result in diarrhea every morning. Some of the substances that are known to irritate the bowel are alcohol and Nicotine. Additionally, the condition may also be a result of various illicit drugs. The majority of these substances are abused at night, especially during social events. As such, diarrhea in the morning hours after drinking with your friends the previous night should not be a surprise. The cases are also isolated, unless you abuse drugs and substances regularly.

6. Pregnancy
Pregnancies are known to cause morning sickness in many ladies. This is mainly because of the elevated levels of hormones, such as the human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and estrogen in the body. In addition to morning sickness, this elevated hormone levels may also lead to diarrhea during the early hours of the day.

Again, nausea and vomiting due to a pregnancy are a common occurrence and may occur any time of the day. However, these two problems, accompanied by diarrhea, tend to be more common in the morning during the first trimester of the pregnancy. There are certain contraceptives that may lead to this condition as well.

7. Psychosocial Stress
Though not a common occurrence, psychosocial stress may also lead to diarrhea every morning. While sleeping bowel movements resulting from this stress will be minimal. However, the movements may worsen in the morning, if you get up with intense emotions and may lead to diarrhea during the early hours of the day. This condition should ease once the situation leading to stress is dealt with.

8. Other Causes
There are other minor causes of this condition:

• Changes in the circadian rhythm:This is essentially the body clock and can lead to this condition, if interrupted. When the clock is working normally, bowel movements are minimal in the evening and more rampant starting from around 8 AM. When the rhythm is interrupted, bowel movements may occur at any, unpredicted time.


• Hormone imbalance and nerve activity:To keep the body active and alert, nerve activity and hormone levels change after waking up. This change may also lead into increased bowel movement, hence diarrhea.


• Eating in the morning:Taking breakfast very early in the morning may stimulate defecation reflexes, also known as duodenocolic and gastrocolic reflexes in the body. This may result in diarrhea in the morning. A breakfast comprising of either fruit juice or milk may also trigger this condition. Such items will irritate the gut, especially in the lactose and fructose intolerant people.

How to Deal With Diarrhea Every Morning
Owing to the many causes of this condition, it may be a problem for you to tell what exactly the cause is. As such, you should visit a doctor for diagnosis. To diagnose the problem, the physician will seek to learn more about your diet, exercise patterns and stressful situations. The physician may also take stool and bowel tissue samples for testing in the laboratory. If the condition is chronic and occurs almost every morning, the physician may need to take a look at the colon and bowels by inserting a microscopic camera into the system. This procedure is known as Colonoscopy.

While there is no specific cure for this condition, there are certain measures that can help contain the situation, such as:

• Probiotics are administered to restore the intestinal flora to its normal condition.


• Moderate fiber consumption helps if you are having chronic diarrhea.


• Avoid irritant drinks and foods that irritate the intestinal system, such as alcohol, spicy foods, fruit juices, dairy and caffeinated beverages.


• Anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide can be taken to ease the condition until the real cause of the diarrhea is ascertained.

What to Eat When You Have Diarrhea

What to Eat When You Have Diarrhea Diarrhea or loose motion means that you are frequently passing stools that are loose and watery. Watery bowel movements are quite common and in most cases, are not very serious. Most people have diarrhea at least once or twice every year, but children are more likely to experience this problem. You may feel weak after an episode of diarrhea because of loss of water and minerals from your body. It is therefore important to learn what to eat to maintain your energy without making your symptoms worse.

What to Eat During Loose Motion
You have to bear in mind that eating certain foods can aggravate your diarrhea, but it is equally important to eat something when you have loose motion to preserve some energy. This is when you can eat the foods mentioned here.

1. Bananas

As they are a binding food, they really help alleviate symptoms associated with loose motion or diarrhea. Eating bananas helps increase the form of the stool and makes it pass slowly through your intestines. Bananas also provide you with a good amount of potassium, a nutrient you are most likely to lose during bouts of vomiting and diarrhea.

2. Rice

Rice has to be on the list of what to eat during loose motion. It works because your stomach can digest it easily and it also has a binding effect on the stool. You may want to avoid brown and some wild varieties of rice because they contain fiber that can aggravate your symptoms. Plain white rice is the best choice because it is low in fiber.

3. Applesauce

The reason why applesauce is a good food choice during loose motion is the presence of pectin that helps bind the bowels. It is mild and your stomach can digest it easily. Moreover, you may want to consume applesauce because it contains natural sugar that provides you with some energy.

4. Toast

You can include toast in your diet when you are suffering from diarrhea. This bland food is easily digestible and provides you enough carbs to help you feel more energetic. At the same time, it adds bulk to the stool and reduces your diarrhea symptoms.

5. Yogurt

Excessive use of antibiotics can cause diarrhea and the best solution is to include probiotic yogurt in your diet. Antibiotics kill beneficial bacteria in your gut and cause several problems, including diarrhea. Yogurt provides your body with these beneficial microorganisms and relieves symptoms of diarrhea. Just be sure to have a teaspoon of yogurt at first and see how it works. Some people find it difficult to digest dairy products, so it is better to be on the safer side.

6. Mashed Potatoes

Thanks to their low-fiber content, mashed potatoes are among the best foods you can have during loose motion. White potatoes are especially beneficial because your body can digest it up high in the GI tract. It is important to consume potatoes plain without adding butter or anything else that could be irritating to your digestive system.

7. Steamed Chicken

Steamed chicken can be on the list of what to eat during loose motion because of its bland nature. Your stomach can digest steamed white meat chicken with ease. It is also a great source of protein that helps restore your energy levels to some extent. Whenever going for steamed chicken, stay away from sautéed or deep-fried preparations because oils and butter can be very hard on your digestive system.

8. Blueberries

Many people have confirmed the benefits of eating dried blueberries during loose motion. You can make a tea by boiling crushed dried blueberries or simply chew them to enjoy some amazing benefits. Blueberries work because they contain tannins, which work as an astringent and contract tissue. This in turn reduces inflammation as well as secretion of Mucus and liquids. Blueberries also contain antioxidants that offer many health benefits.

9. Pureed Pumpkin

Many people believe that pumpkin can be eaten when you have diarrhea mainly because of its nutritional profile. Just make sure to buy 100% pure pumpkin and avoid pumpkin pie filling or else your diarrhea may become worse.

What to Avoid
Just like finding out what to eat during loose motion, you should also have a better understanding about what foods to avoid when your digestive system is not functioning properly. Here are some foods to avoid for diarrhea relief:

• Fatty Foods: Say no to fried foods and foods that are covered in gravy to avoid making your diarrhea worse.


• Butter, Milk, Ice Cream: Even if your diarrhea is not the result of lactose intolerance – a condition in which your body cannot process the sugar lactose found in dairy – you should still avoid having such products when you are suffering from diarrhea.


• Caffeine and Alcohol: You should not drink alcohol when your stomach is upset. The same goes for caffeinated beverages that act as diuretics and make you lose fluids. By having these drinks, you will quickly become dehydrated, which in turn will lead to several complications.


• Sorbitol and Artificial Sweeteners: You may want to avoid artificial sweeteners during loose motion because they often work as laxatives. Therefore, avoid sugarless gum and candy, diet soft drinks, and other sugar substitutes.


• Gassy Foods: Certain foods like beans, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, etc., should be avoided because they cause excess gas. Look for bland foods that are easily digestible.


• Tainted Food: You should never eat food that may have been mishandled, including foods that have been refrigerated for long. Raw fish and meat should also be avoided when you have diarrhea.

Explosive Diarrhea – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Explosive Diarrhea – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment






The habit of passing stool varies from one person to the other. There are people who have less than three bowel movements for the entire week and people who are visiting toilets twice a day. The first case is considered to be abnormal and the second one as normal. Diarrhea is a condition of having frequent watery stools many times a day. People with chronic Constipation will have difficulty in passing their bowels. Passing larger quantities of stool, passing watery stool several times a day can be described as diarrhea.

Diarrhea is often acute and sudden. Having diarrhea is a sign of underlying problem which should be treated. Infection of the stomach and food Allergy is the common causes of diarrhea. Many people do not know “what to eat and what not to eat” during diarrhea and they worsen the symptom by eating foods. It is wise to keep yourself hydrated during diarrhea since you would be losing plenty of ions due to frequent visits to the toilet. In most of the cases, diarrhea gets resolved within couple of days without requiring any treatment.

Explosive Diarrhea :

Explosive diarrhea is the condition of passing watery stool with loud sound. The bowel movements are very forceful and acute. Due to flatulence (excess of gas build-up) stools are expelled with force and sound. Actually, the contents of the gut would move gradually during normal condition. However when you have diarrhea, the gut contents would move fast and contains plenty of water in it. Water does not get fully absorbed during such condition resulting in excess of water.

Gas produced in the abdominal cavity is expelled through the anus normally. But due to excess of water accumulation and fast movement of gut gas exerts pressure on the rectum forcing out the bowels with large sound. Gas is normally produced due to bacterial action on the food particles and sometimes due to swallowing of air through the mouth. When a person has explosive diarrhea, the mechanism of absorption takes place very fast resulting in poor or Malabsorption. The accumulated water is sent out of the rectum with violent force causing explosive diarrhea.

How Stool Is Formed ?

It is relevant to understand the process of formation of stool under normal condition. As the food through the mouth, it mixes with the saliva thoroughly and reaches the stomach. Here the food particles get converted into thick fluid called chyme and a series of digestive enzymes and bacteria acts on it. Next the chyme passes into the small intestine where partial absorption takes place. Lastly when it enters the large intestine, water is fully absorbed in the colon making the bowel more solid in nature which is expelled through rectum/anus. The final stage of food is again solid state but is soft in nature.

Bacteria plays great role in the digestion of foodstuff and in this process it produces gas. In addition excess of air is sent in as one swallows air along with food while eating with open mouth. Resulting excess of gas accumulation is expelled through the anus, with large sound.

During Diarrhea, the following 3 process would occur :

• Movements of the gut is faster than normal condition


• Absorption of essential nutrients and water is not complete


• Water present in the colon is not absorbed and retained with the bowel

All the above mentioned things occur in almost in any kind of diarrhea.

To sum up, following steps happen in explosive diarrhea :-

• Excess of gas build up would be there causing too much of flatulence


• The bowel becomes very watery due to the presence of excess of water


• During the process of defecation, contraction of the rectum and colon is higher than normal


• The sphincter muscle of the rectum may not open fully exerting more pressure when the stool and gas are sent out.

Symptoms Of Explosive Diarrhea :

A person with explosive diarrhea may have symptoms of high watery stool, excess of gas released from the anus with loud sound and the stool is excreted with great force and is always acute and sudden. In many cases explosive diarrhea would wet your trousers or pants causing embarrassment. Explosive diarrhea cannot be controlled most of the time. You may not have enough time to reach the toilet or open your trousers. Strange sounds can be heard from the stomach due to excess movement of the bowels.

Explosive Diarrhea Causes :

Diarrhea is not a disease but is a symptom of underlying illness. Diarrhea is indicative of stomach infection or food allergy.

• Inflammation Of The Stomach :

The stomach gets inflamed due to excess of bacteria or viruses resulting in diarrhea. It is considered as “Stomach flu” and is always acute and exists for only short period. Bacteria or virus would infect the stomach injuring the walls and cells of the intestine. Several toxic materials are released by these organisms causing flatulence and watery stool. This kind of infectious diarrhea would continue for 2-3 days and the symptoms would improve without any treatment. Types of bacteria that causes explosive diarrhea include Salmonella, E. coli, and V Cholera. Apart from bacteria, certain parasites like protozoa can also cause stomach infection. Drinking contaminated food/water particularly during travel is referred to as traveler’s diarrhea.

• Food Poisoning :

Eating toxic foods by mistake can cause food poisoning. Undercooked meat and certain kinds of fishes are some examples of toxic food. Contamination of food can occur through bacteria resulting in diarrhea. Some people may accidentally eat or drink toxic substances of the laboratory which might cause food poisoning and explosive diarrhea.

• Side Effect Of Medication :

Antibiotics (some types) and allergic medications can induce diarrhea. Repeated use of laxatives can definitely cause diarrhea. When taken for long term it can affect the normal bowel movement.

• Food Allergy :

Eating allergic foods can upset the balance of the stomach leading to explosive diarrhea and watery stool.  People who have lactose intolerance and those who are allergic to specific food items should completely avoid them. Fructose can also cause diarrhea if the gut has trouble in absorbing it. Certain kinds of fruit juices can also trigger allergic reaction causing skin rash with diarrhea.

• Diseases and Conditions :

Chronic diseases affecting the colon like irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease and ulcerative Colitis can cause diarrhea with violent sound. People with Celiac Disease can have diarrhea frequently. People who have recently undergone surgery for Weight Loss can have diarrhea for few days or more, until the abdomen gets adjusted.

Explosive Diarrhea Treatment :

In most of the cases symptoms of diarrhea would improve within couple of days with home remedies. It may not require any treatment. However if the diarrhea continues for days together you need to check with your doctor. He would identify the cause of the problem first rather than giving medication to arrest loose motion. When a person has diarrhea, he/she should make sure to stay hydrated to prevent any complications. Over the counter anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide can help in reducing the symptoms. This is effective in controlling acute diarrhea due to infection.

Solutions of rehydration like Electral or Enerzal or any other oral rehydration drinks can be liberally taken during diarrhea. When you have diarrhea you are losing electrolyte balance quickly due to repeated loss of water and ions. In severe cases solutions are injected intravenously if the patient becomes unstable due to loss of electrolyte. It is better to starve during diarrhea than to eat anything. You may not have appetite once the diarrhea sets in. It might disturb your stomach causing flatulence and stomach cramps. In that case, you can stick on to drinks of electrolyte. If you feel hungry, you can eat brat diet like rice, bananas, apple and toast. Yoghurt can be useful in arresting diarrhea. Probiotics that contain Saccaromyces and Lactobacillus casei can help in growth of good bacteria that help in normal bowel movement.

Home Remedies For Diarrhea

Home Remedies For Diarrhea






Diarrhea is having loose stools many times a day. When the volume of fluid secreted in the intestine increases one may get frequent bowel movements. Diarrhea can be the result of poor absorption of fluid by the intestine. Diarrhea can cause symptoms of stomach cramps, excess of gas, bloated feeling and frequent watery stools. It can be either acute or chronic depending on the cause. Often no treatment is required for diarrhea since it resolves on its own and easy home remedies. To prevent Dehydration by diarrhea you need to replace the lost fluid by water and electrolytes.

Salt and Sugar :

The simplest home remedy for diarrhea is salt and sugar solution. A person would lose plenty of fluids due to frequent bowel movements. You can make a perfect drink by adding little salt and 2 tsp of sugar into a glass of water. If you want to have more flavors add 1-2 tsp of orange juice to this solution before drinking. But don’t have complete fruit juice during diarrhea since it may worsen the symptoms.

Soft Bland Diet :

Include bland diet like bananas and rice. Actually bananas can arrest loose motion by facilitating absorption of excess fluid into the intestine. You can take little of apple sauce and toast also in your diet.

Black Tea :

Avoid taking milk when you have diarrhea since it can worsen your stool movement. Prepare black tea and drink this decoction 4-5 times a day or until the diarrhea stops. Tea leaves are effective in turning stools thicker and normal like before.

Yogurt :

Yogurt is naturally enriched with Lactobacillus acidophilus which improves the growth of good bacteria in the intestine. According to a report given in the Journal of the American Medical Association, bifidobacterium would help in restoring the level of good bacteria and destroying bad bacteria in the intestine. Eating a cup of yogurt twice a day will give quick relief from diarrhea. Instead of trying any other medication or method you can stick on to yogurt for arresting diarrhea.

Blackberries :

Make decoction of blackberries by adding few leaves in boiling water. Strain it and drink this tea several times a day.

Psyllium Seeds :

Psyllium is very effective in absorbing excess of fluid from your intestine thus making your stool thicker. Soak this seeds for few hours and drink this fluid slowly. According to a report given in the Journal of the American Medical Association, bifidobacterium would help in restoring the level of good bacteria and destroying bad bacteria in the intestine. Eating a cup of yogurt twice a day will give quick relief from diarrhea.

Fresh Ginger With Honey :

Take few pieces of ginger mixed with few drops of honey. This is very effective in clearing off any kind of indigestion issues. In case you don’t have honey at home, you can drink ginger tea several times a day to get instant relief from bloating and digestion problems.

Fenugreek Seeds :

Soak one tsp of fenugreek seeds in little water for couple of hours. Eat these seeds along with 2 tsp of yogurt. This mixture would act quickly arresting diarrhea.

Banana :

Banana is an excellent home remedy for diarrhea. It contains plenty of ions and electrolyte and pectin. Eat ripe bananas (twice a day) until the diarrhea reduce and stop.

Tea Of Chamomile :

Add one tsp of chamomile flowers in a pot of boiling water. Strain it before drinking this decoction 3-4 times a day. This tea is effective in reducing diarrhea.

Black Seed Oil :

Add 2 tsp of this oil to a cup of yogurt and eat this mixture slowly. Oil of black seed is good for treating various health issues like gas, diarrhea and Constipation.

Carrots :

Prepare carrot soup by pressure cooking few pieces of carrot with water and adding little salt. Drink this soup which is really effective for diarrhea and you will get recharged with nutrients instantly after taking this soup.

OTC Drugs :

If nothing helps in improving the symptoms of diarrhea you can rely on over the counter medications like loperamide or kaopectate. But you have to limit the intake of these drugs for only couple of days and consult your doctor if you still have loose stool. Probiotics are also available in medical stores in the form of lactobacillus GG or bifidobacteria.

Foods To Be Avoided :

Diarrhea often results from eating allergic foods or contaminated food items. You should avoid taking milk, alcohol, coffee, dairy products, and certain vegetables like beans, peas, broccoli, prunes and chickpeas etc.

Infants and young children having diarrhea should be monitored carefully to prevent loss of fluids and dehydration.

Foods to Eat with Diarrhea

Foods to Eat with Diarrhea

If you are not sure what to do about your stomach, you should find out what to eat with diarrhea. It’s important to know the best choice of foods to soothe as well as clear diarrhea. But at the same time certain foods should be avoided.

Foods to eat with diarrhea
1. White rice and mashed potatoes
To avoid stomach upset eat foods with low fat content. These are the most comfortable foods. They are also easy to digest in the tract as they have very little fiber content. For best results, it is advisable to avoid eating these foods with other foods. Eating them plain is better as this prevents cramping.

2. Blueberries
Blueberries have a history of being used as treatment for various conditions in Sweden. What makes these fruits useful is the fact that they have tannins. Tannin is a component in this fruit that has the ability to reduce swelling, as well as the secretion of Mucus and other liquids in the body.

They are also a soluble fiber. If you cannot chew berries while dry, you could grind them once they have dried and take the tea to ease and stop diarrhea. This fruit also has antibacterial properties. It is these antioxidants that help the body fight illness.

3. Steamed chicken
This is the most soluble source of protein; its nature that makes it easy to digest. Fats and oils are hard to dissolve in the body and thus you need to avoid deep-fried or sautéed preparations.

4. Applesauce
Just like bananas, these too are a great source of pectin. It is more effective to cook the apples because the system is able to digest cooked apples easily unlike when eaten raw. Cooking the apples also helps in extracting nutrients, pectin and essential sugars in the apple for the body.

5. Herbal tea
Peppermint and chamomile are examples of teas that help in easing diarrhea. This herbal tea is both soothing and comforting while quieting for diarrhea at the same time.

• Chamomile. This tea is able to reduce inflammation and calm intestinal spasms. It is the flowers in this plant that make the tea effective for diarrhea.


• Peppermint. This tea has a soothing effect. It is also believed that it reduces intestinal gas and has a calming effect on the intestinal tract. Once the tract muscles are relaxed by the tea, diarrhea disappears.

6. Yogurt
Although it is said that you ought to avoid dairy products when you have diarrhea, yogurt is an exception. This is because quality yogurt has live cultures. These cultures balance bacteria. It is scientifically known as Bifidobacterium or Lactobacillus acidophilus.

7. Crackers and white toast
Whole-grain products are taken when the intestines are working normally. This is because the intestines can digest the food easily. However, when one has diarrhea, it is advisable that you stick to already processed foods rich in wheat as they are easier to digest. Without the husk, the salt in these foods tends to dissolve easily in the body helping in electrolyte balance.

8. Bananas
These are the most preferable choice of fruits in settling an upset digestive system. Bananas are also rich in a soluble fiber that helps in moving stool smoothly. This is by use of pectin that absorbs any liquid in the intestines promoting smooth movement of stool. Inulin is also a soluble fiber found in bananas. This supports the growth of useful bacteria in the intestinal system. Another advantage of eating bananas is that they are rich in potassium. Potassium helps in replacing electrolytes that might be lost during diarrhea.

Tips and precautions for treating diarrhea
1. Never drink apple juice
The reason one is not supposed to drink this juice is because it acts as a natural laxative. This simply means “Constipation remedy”. Instead of taking apple juice, it is advisable to use apple sauce. You should never replace apples with apple sauce. You should also stick to decaffeinated tea. This is because substituting them for herbal teas might prolong diarrhea. Additives like sugar, honey, and milk are also a must avoid with diarrhea. They tend to prolong diarrhea and thus the need to avoid them in your tea.

2. Choose cultured yogurt
Always read your yogurt pack to try and see if it is cultured. As mentioned earlier, this yogurt has cultures that tend to balance bacteria. Added sugars are also to be checked. They should be minimal. They are known to have effects on a person when they have diarrhea. If you can stand the sour taste in plain yogurt, you would rather take it plain than prolong your sickness.

3. Keep it plain
Try and serve your meals plain. This safeguards you from negative effects. As mentioned above, fats are bratty and might cause more harm if taken when one is sick with diarrhea.

4. Avoid common sports drinks
Sports drinks are known to increase diarrhea as a result of their high sugar content. Replace the lost fluid in your body by taking plenty of water. Drink about 6-8 glasses of water per day. Fiber is also a great alternative for solidifying the loose bowel movement.

5. Avoid certain foods
Certain foods are known to increase diarrhea while others help calm it. Spicy, fatty and greasy foods, as well as dairy products are examples of foods to avoid when experiencing diarrhea. The only dairy product you can use is cultured yogurt. Another reason for avoiding these foods is that they cause vomiting when one has diarrhea. In case you start vomiting after taking solid food, it would be better to stop taking such food and look for alternatives.

6. Know when to see a doctor
You need to see a doctor because some diseases are more parasitic and bacterial and thus need medical attention. If you experience diarrhea for a day accompanied by fever, this then you should see a doctor immediately as it could be a sign of a serious condition.

Baby Diarrhea

Baby Diarrhea

First time parents tend to fret about almost every little thing that happens with their baby’s diet, sleep patterns and bowel movements. Their concerns are justified since babies don’t have the ability to explain why they are crying. Therefore, it is up to the parents to take on the roles of investigators even if that means they have to focus on poop. Baby bowel movements have different textures, odors and colors. This depends on the food the baby is feeding on. These could include solid foods, formula or breast milk. When compared to an adult’s stool, a baby’s stool is generally loose. Loose stool every now-and-then is not an uncommon thing to see. However, if those bowel movements suddenly become more watery or looser, profuse and frequent, chances are that your child is suffering from diarrhea. Read on to learn how you can deal with this problem. Causes of Baby Diarrhea
The list of possible causes of baby diarrhea is long. The diarrhea could be as a result of bacterial or viral infections. It can also be caused by antibiotics, parasites or something the baby ate. 1. Viral Infection
When a baby has a viral infection, there might be a change in stool texture. Viruses such as Influenza, astrovirus, calicivirus, and rotavirus are causes of diarrhea in babies. These viruses also come with accompanying symptoms such as achiness, chills, fever, abdominal pain and vomiting. 2. Bacterial Infection
Bacteria such as E. coli, campylobacter, staphylococcus, shigella and Salmonella can also be the cause of diarrhea. If your baby is suffering from a bacterial infection, she/he could have a severe case of diarrhea. The diarrhea is also accompanied by signs and symptoms like fever, Blood In Stool and cramps. The baby may also experience vomiting. 3. Ear Infection
There are cases where the cause of diarrhea is an infection to the ear(s). The infection could either be bacterial or viral. In such a situation, you may notice that the baby keeps pulling his/her ears and is fussy. The baby may also vomit and not have an appetite. The baby may have also recently had a cold. 4. Parasitic Infections
Parasites have also been linked to diarrhea in babies. For example, Giardiasis is caused by a parasite that is found in the bowel. Some of the symptoms include diarrhea, greasy stool, gas and bloating. Parasitic infections are spread easily, more so in group-care circumstances. 5. Antibiotics
Some babies have diarrhea after taking or when taking antibiotics. Diarrhea in such a case is related to the antibiotics because they kill off the good bacteria found in intestines as they kill the bacteria causing the problems. Even so, you should not stop giving the baby the antibiotics unless instructed by a doctor. 6. Excess Intake of Juices or Sweetened Drinks
Babies have sensitive stomachs. Therefore, when the baby consumes too much juice especially fruit juice or sweetened drinks, the baby might have loose stool. Fruit juices contain sorbitol and high fructose levels which, when taken in excess, upsets the baby’s tummy. Reducing the amount of juice the baby consumes will solve this problem. 7. Food Allergy
Food allergy is when your baby’s immune system starts to respond to food proteins that are harmless.The reaction could either be mild or severe and might take place immediately or some hours after consumption of the foods. Symptoms in mild cases include diarrhea, blood in stool, abdominal pain and gas. In severe cases, the food allergy can cause breathing difficulty, swelling, a rash, and Hives. 8. Food Intolerance
Also called food insensitivity, food intolerance is a reaction that does not involve the immune system. One such example is lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance is the situation where the body does not produce enough lactase (the enzyme that digests lactose). This is not normal in babies, but there are some babies that are lactose intolerant. Lactose is the sugar found in dairy products like cow’s milk. 9. Poisoning
Poisoning is a situation where the baby is vomiting and has diarrhea, which might have happened after s/he has swallowed non-food items like a plant, chemical or medication. If this poisoning is not immediately treated, it might lead to unconsciousness or even death. Other symptoms include convulsions and fatigue. Effects of Baby Diarrhea
Baby diarrhea can alter normal salts (electrolytes) and water balance in the body. When the baby loses too many electrolytes and water during diarrhea, the baby becomes dehydrated. Dehydration in babies can happen very fast i.e. in one or two days after diarrhea starts. Dehydration is very dangerous, more so in newborns. The signs of dehydration are:

• Dry mouth


• Less urination than usual (fewer wet diapers)


• Irritability


• The top of baby’s head is sunken and soft


• No tears when crying


• Skin not as elastic as usual

When to See a Doctor
Promptly call the doctor if it happens that the baby is younger than three months and has diarrhea. If the baby is older than 3 months, has diarrhea, and it does not improve after a day, consult your doctor. Also, call the doctor when your baby has diarrhea and the following symptoms:

• Vomits several times.


• Has blood in stool or has black stool.


• Is lethargic and drowsy


• Suffers abdominal pain.


• Has a high fever (38.3 degrees Celsius) or higher if the baby is 3-6 months old. If the baby is 6months or older and has a temperature of 39.4 degrees Celsius, and if the baby is 3 months or younger and has a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius.

How to Deal with Baby Diarrhea
1. Liquids
Diarrhea can lead to dehydration. That is why you need to make sure that the baby takes enough liquids. If the baby is not vomiting, you can continue giving him/her formula or breast milk. 2. Pediatric Electrolyte Solution
If the baby also vomits the formula or breast milk, you should contact your doctor who may suggest a pediatric electrolyte solution. The solutions can be found in drug stores and have been made with flavors that will make it delectable to babies. These solutions are generally easy to keep down as opposed to formula and breast milk. 3. Feed Him the Right Foods
For babies who have already transitioned to table or finger food, you can keep feeding the baby on solid foods. While it is okay to feed the baby on the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce and dry roast), you can also feed the baby on APP which is a diet that includes staples like complex carbohydrates (rice, cereals and breads), fruits, vegetables, yoghurt and lean meats. As a matter of fact, it restores the essential nutrients that are needed to fight infections. 4. What to Avoid
You should avoid feeding your baby on fluids such as sodas like ginger ale, sugar water, fruit juices (undiluted) and athletic drinks such as Gatorade. You should also avoid feeding the baby on Jell-O. All these have sugar which draws water to the baby’s intestines worsening the diarrhea. Watch a video on more tips to handle baby diarrhea:

Sickness and Diarrhea

Sickness and Diarrhea

Occasional stomach upset or vomiting are fairly common symptoms in adults and in most cases no treatment is needed if the symptoms resolve within a couple of days. It is noteworthy that feeling sick andvomiting can be a reaction to an acute ingestion of a food or beverage that has irritated the lining mucosa of gut. Sickness and diarrhea is mostly due to Gastroenteritis, a gut infection that is caused by a viral or bacterial agent such as Norovirus. The infection goes away in few days if the immune system is functioning well.

Sometimes, it can be due to some serious problems like bowel blockage or stones in the kidney. Make sure to see a healthcare professional if your symptoms are getting worse or if the condition is not responding to traditional pharmacological regimen.

What Causes Sickness and Diarrhea?
1. Stomach Flu
Stomach flu is another name for viral Gastroenteritis that is caused by a variety of virusesincluding norovirus, adenovirus, etc. These microorganisms tend to produce inflammation inside the intestines. Stomach flu is not a serious issue to worry about and most cases resolve without seeking any treatment.

Classic symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps and vomiting. These symptoms stays for 1-3 days and sometime longer. But if left poorly managed, it may lead to Dehydration, which if left untreated can be dangerous for the stomach.

Stomach flu can be managed with very simple lifestyle changes, including:

• Drink more fluids

In sickness and diarrhea, you should increase the intake of fluids. Children should consume at least 1 ounce of fluid once every 30-60 minutes. Drinking in small portions is recommended to avoid worsening of the vomiting.

• Watch what you are drinking

Only drinking water might not help as you may need electrolytes and minerals in sickness and diarrhea. Talk to your doctor for suggestions of brands. For adults, oral solutions for rehydration can be used. In addition, diluted juices, sport drinks are also recommended. Avoid drinking sugary, caffeinated drinks and alcohol, they may worsen the situation.

• Eat bland and then normal

Previously, the misconception was to have only bland diet in sickness and diarrhea. It is okay to have mild diet in first 2 or 3 days but normal diet should be continued that is rich in proteins and fat to meet the bodily requirements.

• Intake of nutrients:

Eat foods with high quality potassium such as fruit juice and banana, normal quantities of fat and salt from soul and yogurt to control the diarrhea.

• Use of OTC medicines

In stomach sickness and diarrhea, medications aren't necessary but some prefer to take them anyway to shorten the duration of symptoms. You need to take pharmacological preparations especially antibiotics with great caution. Also make arrangements to keep these drugs away from the reach of children.

• Have rest

Give your body some rest to facilitate the recovery process.

2. Appendicitis
It is a pain that you feel in your tummy for short intervals of time without any noticeable injury or infection. The pain becomes localized to the right lower abdomen (which is also a classic hallmark sign of appendicitis). The pain worsens on manual pressing, resulting in loss of appetite, sickness and diarrhea.

Possible causes of appendicitis are inflammation of appendix due to Swollen Lymph Nodes of bowel wall. Symptoms include inflammatory swelling of appendix, negative changes in appetite, sickness and diarrhea.

If together with diarrhea and sickness, you're experiencing gradually-worsening abdominal pain, call your doctor.

3. Gallstones
In gall bladder, small solid stones or salt crystals are formed that are also referred to as gallstones. Causes of gallstones include long standing Hypercholesterolemia, abnormally high body mass index, lower rate of gallbladder movement and genetics.

Gallstones are of two types which are:

• Cholesterol stones: Mostly (80%) gallstones are cholesterol gallstones, they are greenish-yellow in color.


• Pigment stones: They are smaller, darker and made of bilirubin.

Symptoms include upper abdomen pain and back pain for a few hours in case of acute cholecystitis. Other classic symptoms include nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal issues like indigestion, bloating, gas and stomachache.

4. Medicines
Chemotherapy agents are used for the management of Cancer; however, most chemotherapeutic agents limit the patient compliance due to high risk of adverse effects, such as vomiting, sickness and diarrhea. Whenever you start using new medication or change diet, talk to your doctor to know if there are any substitutes available.

5. Urine Infection
In children, urine infection is very common. It presents very frequently with sickness and diarrhea in addition to chills, rigors and vomiting. The infection usually responds very well to an antibiotics course (after identification of microorganisms and sensitivity analysis). Most children recover completely from urine infection after which some additional tests are also suggested by your doctor.

Most of the time, it is dependent on the age of your child and the severity of infection. For further details, check leaflet of urine infection.

6. Some Other Common Causes

• Pregnancy

In first few weeks of pregnancy, mild sickness and diarrhea is a common complaint that does not require any treatment. For more severe and compromised overall health, make sure to consider anti-sickness pills for the management of vomiting.

• Overdrinking (alcohol especially) and overeating

Eating and drinking too much (especially alcohol) can cause indigestion, abdominal bloating and diarrhea. Too much intake of fiber can also worsen the situation.

• Stress and anxiety or fear

Stress causes diarrhea by releasing copious amounts of stress hormone in the system that may interfere with the normal processing of food that enters into our body.

7. More Causes
Some other causes of sickness and vomiting include:

• Sea-sickness


• Motion sickness


• Extreme pain


• Gallbladder infection


• Food Poisoning


• Reaction to smells


• Heart Attack


• Brain damage, brain Tumor


• Ulcers


• Cancer


• Psychological diseases


• Exposure to anesthesia


• Intestinal obstruction


• Migraine


• Vestibular neuritis


• Hepatitis


• Gerd


• Infection in ear


• Diabetics


• Crohn's disease


• Cyclic vomiting syndrome


• BPPV


• Anorexia nervosa

When to See a Doctor
If your diarrhea persists or if your sickness develops into constant vomiting, you should worry. Vomiting on multiple occasions can be very serious situation. In the case, call and emergency or visit a doctor. Some more serious conditions include:

• Frequent vomiting for 2 or more days


• Continuous vomiting that you can't even keep fluids in your stomach for some time


• Green colored vomiting


• Dehydration


• Weight Loss until you become sick


• Extreme abdominal pain


• Extreme chest pain


• Bloody vomiting appearing like granules of coffee


• Temperature with rigid neck


• Extreme Headache

Diarrhea Every Morning

Diarrhea Every Morning

Morning diarrheais a condition that creates an urgent urge for a bowel movement every morning after waking up. In this condition, the patient usually will pass loose and watery stool. The urge may cause sleep disruptions in the morning hours. Often, this type of diarrhea is not associated with one specific disease but is a common symptom of gastrointestinal conditions such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Reasons Why You Have Diarrhea Every Morning
Morning diarrhea can be associated with various conditions; sometimes, it is nothing to worry about, while other times it could indicate something serious that requires immediate medical treatment. Below are some of the reasons why it occurs:

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) causes the highest percentage of diarrhea conditions. Doctors examine patients for this condition first whenever they report diarrhea symptoms. IBS occurs when the colon and intestines contract abnormally. It may also occur due to some unhealthy eating habits and allergic reactions to foods.

This conditions is often treated by changing eating habits such as eating early in the evening, including more natural foods and reducing salt intake. Besides, bananas and yogurts with active and live cultures improve stool stability, thus helping to treat IBS.

2. Bacteria and Viruses
Viral and bacterial infections can cause diarrhea every morning. These infections may result from contaminated foods. The most common causes are E.coli and food Poisoning. Vomiting and diarrhea caused by bacterial and viral infections can happen at any time of the day. However, there're cases when the symptoms are only present in the morning, especially when the body is reacting to foods consumed the previous night or if the infection is mild.

3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that causes inflammation on the bowel wall. The main types of IBD are ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease. Both types of IBD cause the diarrhea to be either bloody, watery or have Mucus in it. The diarrhea occurs in acute attacks or episodes, which are worse at certain times. The diarrhea may not be severe in the morning but it will start once the patient wakes up. Severe cases of diarrhea will cause the patient to wake up several times in the night to pass stool.

4. Substance Misuse
Alcohol and nicotine abuse causes bowel irritation. Most people misuse these substances at night during social events. They may experience diarrhea the morning after misusing the substances. Diarrhea from substance misuse occurs in isolated cases unless if the abuse is consistent. Misusing other substances may also cause the same issue.

5. Reactions to Medication
Medications such as antibiotics can cause diarrhea every morning. Diarrhea associated with antibiotics can occur at any time. However, early morning diarrhea occurs because internal organs begin to function as the person wakes up. They become active after a period of dormancy through the night. Medication that has stayed in the bloodstream throughout the night triggers a severe early morning diarrhea.

6. Pregnancy
Pregnancy increases levels of hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and estrogen hormones. This increase causes morning sickness and may lead to early morning diarrhea as well. The first trimester is characterized by nausea and vomiting, which can occur at any time but is severe in the morning for many women. And it also goes true for some oral contraceptives.

7. Psychosocial Stress
Bowel movements reduce when a person is relaxed or sleeping. They worsen when the person wakes up with intense emotions, which could be reason for morning diarrhea. However, it usually reduces when the stressful situation is resolved.

8. Other Causes
Additional causes of early morning diarrhea include:

• Changes in circadian rhythm in the morning: The cycle curbs bowel movements late in the night and triggers an urge to pass stool in the morning around 8am. Disrupting this 24-hour cycle will lead to abnormal bowel movements including early morning diarrhea


• Intense physical activities


• Taking breakfast immediately after waking up may cause defecation reflexes such as gastrocolicreflexes and duodenocolic. These reflexes increase colonic motility in the stomach and the first section of the small intestine.


• Abnormal changes in hormone and nerve functions interrupt bowel movements and lead to early morning diarrhea.This is becausehormone levels and nerve activities intensify in the morning, increasing activeness and alertness in the body.


• Food intolerance: Diarrhea every morning is common after taking milk for lactose-intolerant persons and fruit juice for people with fructose mal-absorption.


• Stool and water buildup in the colon during the night.

How to Deal With It
Treating early morning diarrhea is sometimes difficult because it can result from many underlying conditions.

Diagnosis
Doctors should identify the underlying cause of early morning diarrhea before prescribing any treatment.

• A Licensed medical provider will study a patient’s lifestyle including exercising patterns, diet and stress level to identify the underlying cause.


• Doctors may also conduct lab test on tissue and stool samples to find out the exact cause and treat it accordingly.


• A Colonoscopy is used to treat chronic morning diarrhea, which refers to a daily occurrence of early morning diarrhea. In this procedure, doctors insert a small camera through the rectum, bowels and colon. This camera shows the state of the lower digestive tract and helps in diagnosing Crohn's disease and colon Cancer.

Treatments
The recommended treatments for diarrhea every morning include:

• Probiotics, which restore normal functions of intestinal flora


• Reducing intake of irritant foods and drinks- these include spicy foods, alcohol, dairy, caffeinated beverages, and sweeteners.


• Controlling fiber intake, which can worsen pre-existing diarrhea


• Taking antidiarrheal medication such as loperamide- the ultimate solution is to treat the underlying condition or disease.

What to Eat After Diarrhea and What to Avoid

What to Eat After Diarrhea and What to Avoid

Having diarrhea occasionally is usually nothing serious. It can still make life miserable. So many underlying issues can cause diarrhea. You may have diarrhea just by eating a meal that has an ingredient your stomach cannot tolerate. Alternatively, it could be Stomach Flu. Once you have experienced diarrhea, it is essential to know what to eat after diarrhea to avoid worsen symptoms or recurrence. Read on to find out what to eat and what to avoid.

Basic Dietary Principles to Remember After Diarrhea
Knowing basic diet guidelines helps to improve your conditions and avoid making your diarrhea worse. Certain foods will also help accelerate recovery.

1. Consume Some Clear Fluids First
Keep in mind that it is best to eat a clear liquid diet after diarrhea, including apple juice, weak tea, frozen pops, clear broth, plain gelatin or simple water. Clear liquids will help prevent irritation.

2. Adopt Small Meals
It is equally important to eat smaller meals more frequently to avoid putting Stress on your digestive system. You can switch to a low-fiber diet after a couple of days of diarrhea. Be sure to drink water to avoid becoming dehydrated.

3. Follw the Dietary Chart Below

Helpful Foods to Follow	Harmful Foods to Avoid
Include food high in pectin in your diet, like bananas, applesauce, and yogurt.	Do not eat food that causes gas, such as carbonated beverages and chewing gum.
Eat food rich in potassium, such as sports drinks, fruit juices, bananas, and potatoes without the skin. This helps cover loss of potassium through diarrhea.	Avoid food with high fiber and high-fat. Avoid sweet foods such as cookies and cakes, greasy, and fried foods.
Increase your protein intake to avoid fatigue. Eat more pork, lean baked beef, chicken, turkey, or well-cooked eggs.	Limit your use of milk and milk products which are quite hard to digest. Avoid very cold or hot food or they will irritate your digestive tract.
Eat vegetables but not raw. You can have soups made with cooked asparagus tips, carrots, beets, mushrooms, peeled zucchini, celery, or a tomato puree.	Avoid alcoholic, caffeinated, or carbonated beverages. Stop smoking in the healing process.

What to Eat After Diarrhea—5Food Options
Once you have recovered from diarrhea, there are some food options you can try to speed up the healing process. Here are 5common options you should follow after diarrhea.

1. Broth-Based Soups or Juices
You will lose bodily fluids due to diarrhea, so it is important to replenish fluids through clear fluids, such as water, broth, and juices. If you want to eat solid foods, you can add bland vegetables to your soup. Adding chicken breast to soups will also provide you with helpful protein and nutrients.

Clear juice varieties such as white grape juice, apple juice, and light cranberry juice arequite beneficial after diarrhea. You can also take some soft drinks like ginger ale, plain water, and sports drink that contain sodium and potassium to avoid Dehydration. Yet, avoid alcohol and caffeine because they can dehydrate your body.

2. Enjoy Bland Fruits and Veggies
You get minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants from vegetables and fruits, and these nutrients really help prevent further infection. However, you should only eat bland fruits and veggies, such as cooked carrots, bananas, and mashed potatoes soon after initial recovery. Increase your portion size after a couple of days and eat cooked peas, steamed cauliflower, berry smoothies, or unsweetened applesauce.

3. Try Low-Fiber Food
Cereals, whole-grain breads, legumes, and other high-fiber food can aggravate diarrhea. Therefore, you should stick to food with low-fiber content, such as egg whites, toasted white bread, soda crackers, or chicken.

4. Try BRAT Diet
Being a bland-food diet, BRAT stands for Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. The diet works because it includes low-fiber, "binding" foods that make your stools firm. You should also try the BRAT diet when you have vomiting because it helps ease vomiting and nausea, especially during pregnancy.

5. Consume Probiotics
Increasing the number of good bacteria in your gastrointestinal tract will also help cure diarrhea. You can do it through a dietary supplement or food that contains live bacteria. You can eat kefir or yogurt because they contain probiotics that help restore balance in good and bad bacteria in your gut. Remember to go for low sugar varieties of kefir and yogurt.

Recommended Diet Routine After Diarrhea
While you already know what to eat after diarrhea, you may still benefit by sticking to a specific whole-day diet routine after diarrhea.

Daily Diet	What to Eat
Breakfast	Start your first meal with applesauce, bananas and toast. If you are already feeling better, you may opt for some other foods. You can eat crisped rice cereal or cook eggs with some butter. Rice cakes, low-fat yogurt, and hot cooked cereal are also some good breakfast options.
Lunch	You can have chicken broth, canned tuna, crackers, chicken noodle soup, vegetable soup, plain pasta, or sandwich with lean protein. Keep in mind that you do not have to wait until lunch to eat these. You can have them any time between breakfast and lunch.
Dinner	You will start regaining some strength by the end of the day and that is when you can eat lean meat, baked potatoes, and steamed vegetables.

You will feel better when you keep an eye on what you eat. Once your condition improves, you can go back to normal eating routine. Just bear in mind that it is important to avoid food that irritates your stomach.

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Diarrhea and vomiting affects over a million people in the United States each year. It can be caused by viral Gastroenteritis, bacterial infections, or even food Poisoning. Eating undercooked fish or meats can also cause an infection.

Vomiting up food or having diarrhea is the body’s way of getting rid of something that is upsetting your digestive system. During this time, you don’t want to eat much and this helps to give things a rest so you can heal from whatever made you sick. This article will help you understand some of the common causes and what you can do to feel better.

Common Causes of Diarrhea and Vomiting
Virus Stomach Flu
The “stomach flu” isn’t actually a flu, but a viral infection known asviral gastroenteritis. There are several viruses that can cause the symptoms and they are very contagious. One way it can be spread is through contaminated food or water. This condition is often found in daycares, cruise ships, and school settings.

• Symptoms

Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, Headache, body aches, Weight Loss, and abdominal cramping. You may also have chills, fever, and cold sweats.

• At-risk group

People at higher risk for the stomach flu include young children in daycare, elderly living in nursing homes, and people with low immune system function.

• Treatment and prevention

Viral gastroenteritis usually clears up on its own in a few days to a little over a week. Treatment includes increasing fluid intake so you don’t get dehydrated. Some people have to be put in the hospital to receive extra fluids intravenously.

Stomach flu can be prevented through increased hand washing, drinking bottled clean water, and only eating foods and meats that are fully cooked. People who are suffering from the stomach flu should not prepare foods that others will be eating. In daycare centers, keep all toys clean and sanitized since small children tend to put toys in their mouths.

Food Poisoning
Food that is contaminated by either a virus or bacteria, and other contaminants can cause food poisoning. If hand washing isn’t a common practice prior to handling foods, it can transmit germs and make people sick. It can also be caused by undercooked foods likeeggs, meats, and seafood. Food poisoning is a common cause of diarrhea and vomiting and the illness can set in within minutes to hours after eating contaminated food.

• Symptoms

The symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, headaches, and fatigue.

• How long it lasts

Food poisoning usually lasts between 24 hours to 10 days depending on what caused the illness and your health condition.

• Treatment

Food poisoning usually just has to run its course. In the meantime, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid Dehydration. In some cases, if the illness was caused by bacteria, antibiotics may be needed.

Other Causes of Diarrhea and Vomiting
There are a few other causes of vomiting and diarrhea that are unrelated to contaminated foods or viral infections. These include:

• Appendicitis


• Meningitis


• Antibiotic side-effects


• Chemotherapy


• Narcotic drugs


• Anti-inflammatories


• Food allergies


• Alcohol intake


• Insect bites


• Pollution


• Eating toxic plants or wild mushrooms


• Head injury/Concussion


• Anxiety or panic disorders


• Bowel disease

How to Deal with Diarrhea and Vomiting

Prevent Dehydration

For anyone suffering from vomiting and diarrhea, the most important part of recovery is to prevent dehydration. Use the following instructions to help replace lost fluids:

• Infants under one year: Breastfeed as normal if you are nursing your baby. Breast milk contains all the necessary electrolytes and fluids your baby needs. For bottle-fed babies, give he/she a formula that is lactose-free until the vomiting and diarrhea stop. If your baby continues to vomit or have diarrhea, your pediatrician may want to use only electrolyte replacement for 12 to 24 hours. Do not give plain water to infants.


• Toddlers over one year and children: Give your child electrolyte replacement solution to prevent dehydration for the first day. For toddlers and children having diarrhea and vomiting, you can start clear liquid diet after the first 24 hours. Try not to use soda or plain water, because they do not have the proper electrolytes and can make your child worse.


• For older children, adults, and elderly: Use an electrolyte replacement drink for the first 24 hours and try to drink at least seven 8-ounce-glasses of water daily. Elderly adults need to use electrolyte replacement until the illness clears off completely. Avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol as they can dehydrate you more.

Eat the Proper Foods

If you can’t tolerate a full diet, eat nutrient-rich things that are easy to keep down. Make sure you eat foods high in potassium like baked potatoes with the skin on, bananas, high-sodium foods, and yogurt for the active bacteria. Try these recipes that contain electrolytes and nutrients:

• Smoothie with banana, almond and kale

Bananas will give you potassium, while kale has the important electrolyte calcium. You can also get lots of magnesium and extra potassium from almonds. A dash of salt will give you needed sodium to help balance everything. To make this smoothie, place two bananas in your blender and add a small handful of almonds and pour in some soymilk. Blend this mixture first and throw in some kale and a dash of sea salt. Blend for a minute more and enjoy.

• Papaya tea

You can get an electrolyte boost from papaya. Take a raw papaya and grate. Add grated papaya to boiling water and boil for ten minutes. Place extra tea in a jar and drink a few times a day while you are sick.

• Follow the B.R.A.T. diet

The B.R.A.T. diet consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These are helpful during the first 48 hours of having vomiting and diarrhea.

When You Should Get Medical Attention
Diarrhea and vomiting usually go away on their own with no complications. However, you should get medical attention as soon as possible if the following occurs:

• You begin vomiting blood or have blood in your bowel movements


• You notice that your skin or white of your eyes are turning yellow


• You develop severe abdominal pain with bowel movements


• You cannot keep any fluids down for longer than a 12-hour period


• If you are vomiting after a head injury with a headache


• If you are running a fever over 101°F (38.3 °C) with diarrhea


• Constant vomiting that lasts longer than a 12-hour period


• Constant and severe pain in the abdomen

• Your heart is beating very fast


• Continuous diarrhea and vomiting


• Diarrhea that does not subside after a 2-day period

Sulfur Burps and Diarrhea

Sulfur Burps and Diarrhea

Everyone burps. It is a natural process of digestion when gasses are created in your digestive tract. Normally, they smell close to the foods that you ate recently and no cause for concern. When you have sulfur burps your body is creating a gas from proteins that contain sulfur. It is known as hydrogen sulfide gas. There are microbes in your digestive system that break down the sulfur and release it. Most often, these microbes are part of the “good bacteria” and nothing to worry about. If you have sulfur burps and diarrhea, you may have bacteria that are infectious.

Causes of Sulfur Burps and Diarrhea
The causes are often very simple and easy to fix. Some are more complicated and require a visit to the doctor. Here are some of the reasons you may be experiencing:

1. Sulfur in Foods
On occasion, you may eat foods containing hydrogen sulfides that cause sulfur burps when the protein is broken down. This may also upset your intestinal tract with a one-time case of diarrhea after eating the offending food. These are foods that have complex proteins in them:

• Red meat


• Poultry


• Preservatives (prepackaged cold foods, canned foods and dried fruits)


• Eggs


• Dairy (milk, cheese, cottage cheese)


• Fruits (bananas, watermelon, avocado)


• Vegetables (Swiss chard, yams, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, cabbage, broccoli, onions)


• Legumes (peas, lentils, beans, soybeans, alfalfa, carob, jicama)


• Tea and coffee


• Grains (corn, sesame seeds, coconut, sunflower seeds, oats, almonds, and walnuts)


• Whey protein powder


• Amino acid supplements


• Vitamin B supplements

2. Infections in Your Digestive Tract
There are a few infections that can cause you to have sulfur burps and diarrhea. There are usually other symptoms like vomiting, fever, and nausea. You need to check with your doctor to see if you have any of these:

• Giardia lamblia:This is a parasite that comes from contaminated food or water. It will cause sulfur burps, Bloated Abdomen, diarrhea, and bad gas passing. It needs prescription medication,and not being treated promptly can cause Dehydration.


• H. Pylori:This is a bacterial infection of the stomach that can cause Gastritis and even Ulcers. It is accompanied by bloating and Heartburn. Your doctor will give you a course of antibiotics and antacid medications until the infection is gone.


• Normal intestinal flora:Your digestive system is full of “good” bacteria that help to digest your food. If you have an overgrowth of this bacteria, you may experience sulfur burps, bloating, and even diarrhea. This is common in people who are lactose intolerant or fructose intolerant. Your doctor can give you antifungal medication.

3. Poor Diet
Eating too fast or eating too much of the wrong foods can cause you to have sulfur or rotten egg type burps. When you eat too fast you may not be chewing your food enough to start the digestive process or swallowing too much air with your food. Eating too many proteins in a meal will cause sulfur gas to form in your digestive tract.

4. Chronic Health Conditions
Some chronic digestive conditions can cause sulfur burps and diarrhea. These include:

• Pancreatitis


• Crohn’s disease


• Celiac Disease


• Gerd (gastrointestinal reflux disease)


• Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If you have any of the above disorders, talk to your doctor about necessary dietary modifications to prevent this side-effect of eating.

Home Remedies for Sulfur Burps
There are a few things you can try to help get rid of sulfur burps at home. Keep in mind that if these things do not help, you should see your doctor.

1. Eat Right
If you notice that you’re getting sulfur burps after eating, try getting rid of high sulfur foods in your diet or at least cut back on them. Reduce the amount of eggs and dried fruits, dairy and high sugar foods. Cut them out of your diet and then add them back in slowly to see which one is causing you trouble. You can also increase your intake of high fiber foods and drink plenty of water with meals. This will help flush the sulfur through your system.

2. Try Warm Lemon Water with Honey
Place warm water in a teacup or mug and squeeze in the juice of ½ a lemon. Add a teaspoon of honey to sweeten and drink every morning. This will help cleanse your system of toxins and sulfur.

3. Use Pepto Bismol™
This pink stomach medication is an old standby for tummy troubles. This may help calm your tummy and get rid of sulfur burps. It may help grab the sulfites and pull them out of your digestive tract.

4. Drink Baking Soda
Baking soda can neutralize your stomach acids and the gas it produces. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda into one cup of water then drink it. It will make you burp and it may smell like eggs or sulfur. You may also throw up, so stay near a bathroom. You will feel better in just a few minutes after the gas is completely passed.

5. Consume Seltzer Water
Seltzer water can help you burp up any gas in your stomach. The water can also help flush your system. Add a splash of cranberry juice to make a delicious spritzer and drink after meals.

6. Try herbal and natural remedies to help ease sulfur burps and diarrhea:

• Probiotics (helps to replace the healthy good bacteria in your digestive tract)


• Ginger tea


• Peppermint tea or candy


• Papaya (has natural digestive enzymes)


• Cardamom (an Indian spice that Aids digestion)


• Yogurt


• Chamomile


• Fennel seed

When to See a Doctor
It can be a very normal thing to have a one-time case of sulfur burps and diarrhea if it is something not agreeing with your stomach. If diarrhea continues, or vomiting occurs, you need to see a doctor right away. Bacterial and parasitic infections of the digestive tract need prompt medical attention and treatment with antibiotics. These infections can lead quickly to dehydration and complications in the bowel. If you try the remedies above and they do not work, also call your doctor. This is especially important in small children who can become dehydrated very quickly.

7 Common Causes of Diarrhea Every Morning

7 Common Causes of Diarrhea Every Morning

You may be experiencing the rapid bowel movement every morning and the urgent need to pass feces in the morning hours. Maybe, the same thing is even disrupting your sleep in the morning hours. However, when you visit the toilet to pass the feces, the discharge is watery. You need not to worry because this condition is affecting many people. While this condition is not an indicator of a particular condition, it may be associated with a number of gastrointestinal conditions. Some of the conditions that may result in diarrhea every morning include the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

What Causes Diarrhea Every Morning?

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Being one of the most common causes of morning diarrhea, IBS is the first condition that the doctor will diagnose for if you complain of diarrhea every morning. The condition occurs when the intestines fail to contract as they are supposed to and is mainly caused by dietary problems. IBS may also be caused by allergic reactions to certain goods.

As such, a simple change in your eating habits, such as eating healthier or having your evening meals earlier, can actually solve the problem. While suffering from this condition, you should also consider including bananas and yogurts with active and live cultures in your diet.

2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD is a rather chronic infection, affecting the bowel wall. There are two main types of the IBD, the ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease. The infection causes the walls of the bowels to become inflamed. Some of the symptoms associated with this infection include a watery diarrhea with traces of blood or mucous. IBD normally occurs in acute episodes and may worsen at certain times. While the condition may not worsen in the morning, the diarrhea will start from the time you wake up. The diarrhea may even interrupt your sleep in the morning.

3. Bacteria and Viruses
In other cases, diarrhea every morning may be a result of a bacterial or viral infection. These mainly enter the body through contaminated food. While such bacteria and viruses, such as E. coli, or even standard food poisoning may lead to both diarrhea and vomiting throughout the day, the problem is more rampant during the morning hours. This is particularly the case when the infection is mild or if you ingested the contaminated food or drink before going to bed the previous day.

4. Reactions to Medication
There are certain medications, specifically antibiotics, which may be associated with morning diarrhea. Diarrhea resulting from the reaction by the body to a certain medication may occur any time of the day. However, the problem is more common in the morning. While sleeping, most of the body organs tend to go to a dormant state. After waking up, the various organs become active and may react to a medication that had been circulating in the bloodstream the whole night. This is likely to cause diarrhea in the early hours of the day.

5. Substance Misuse
Abusing certain substances may also result in diarrhea every morning. Some of the substances that are known to irritate the bowel are alcohol and nicotine. Additionally, the condition may also be a result of various illicit drugs. The majority of these substances are abused at night, especially during social events. As such, diarrhea in the morning hours after drinking with your friends the previous night should not be a surprise. The cases are also isolated, unless you abuse drugs and substances regularly.

6. Pregnancy
Pregnancies are known to cause morning sickness in many ladies. This is mainly because of the elevated levels of hormones, such as the human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and estrogen in the body. In addition to morning sickness, this elevated hormone levels may also lead to diarrhea during the early hours of the day.

Again, nausea and vomiting due to a pregnancy are a common occurrence and may occur any time of the day. However, these two problems, accompanied by diarrhea, tend to be more common in the morning during the first trimester of the pregnancy. There are certain contraceptives that may lead to this condition as well.

7. Psychosocial Stress
Though not a common occurrence, psychosocial stress may also lead to diarrhea every morning. While sleeping bowel movements resulting from this stress will be minimal. However, the movements may worsen in the morning, if you get up with intense emotions and may lead to diarrhea during the early hours of the day. This condition should ease once the situation leading to stress is dealt with.

8. Other Causes
While these mentioned above are some of the major causes of diarrhea every morning, there are other minor causes of this condition:

• Changes in the circadian rhythm:This is essentially the body clock and can lead to this condition, if interrupted. When the clock is working normally, bowel movements are minimal in the evening and more rampant starting from around 8 AM. When the rhythm is interrupted, bowel movements may occur at any, unpredicted time.


• Hormone imbalance and nerve activity:To keep the body active and alert, nerve activity and hormone levels change after waking up. This change may also lead into increased bowel movement, hence diarrhea.


• Eating in the morning:Taking breakfast very early in the morning may stimulate defecation reflexes, also known as duodenocolic and gastrocolic reflexes in the body. This may result in diarrhea in the morning. A breakfast comprising of either fruit juice or milk may also trigger this condition. Such items will irritate the gut, especially in the lactose and fructose intolerant people.

How to Deal With Diarrhea Every Morning
Owing to the many causes of this condition, it may be a problem for you to tell what exactly the cause is. As such, you should visit a doctor for diagnosis. To diagnose the problem, the physician will seek to learn more about your diet, exercise patterns and stressful situations. The physician may also take stool and bowel tissue samples for testing in the laboratory. If the condition is chronic and occurs almost every morning, the physician may need to take a look at the colon and bowels by inserting a microscopic camera into the system. This procedure is known as Colonoscopy.

While there is no specific cure for this condition, there are certain measures that can help contain the situation, such as:

• Probiotics are administered to restore the intestinal flora to its normal condition.


• Moderate fiber consumption helps if you are having chronic diarrhea.


• Avoid irritant drinks and foods that irritate the intestinal system, such as alcohol, spicy foods, fruit juices, dairy and caffeinated beverages.


• Anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide can be taken to ease the condition until the real cause of the diarrhea is ascertained.