We all experience (rather suffer) from bouts of loose motions every now and then. Whatever the reason, loose motions are unpleasant and can make your life miserable. Usually, loose motions or diarrhea is not a cause of worry. It is the body’s response to the disorders in the gastrointestinal system, and if you have diarrhea, you will have to make frequent trips to the toilet for a couple of days. However, the condition can worsen and become chronic owing to bacterial or viral infection. The common symptoms of loose motion symptoms include abnormally watery stools, bloating, nausea, and abdominal cramping. It can result in dehydration and weakness. Simple home remedies can prove useful in battling diarrhoea and keeping the body and tummy healthy.ADVERTISEMENT
What Can Cause Loose Motions?
When you have diarrhea, you may make trips to the toilet 4 to 5 times a day, and this problem may last for more than a couple of days. However, if you have loose motions for over a week, it can be worrisome and would require immediate medical attention. Several factors can contribute to the onset of loose motions. Some of the common causes of loose motions are:
- Bacteria like E.coli, salmonella, cyanobacteria present in contaminated water and foods can cause loose motions.
- Viral infections like viral hepatitis, herpes simplex virus, norovirus, and rota virus can trigger loose motions.
- Irritable bowel syndrome due to stress can trigger the condition of loose motions.
- Some individuals are intolerant to certain foods or specific ingredients in foods. Their incapability to digest them can prompt loose motions. For example, people who are intolerant to lactose can experience loose motions on consuming milk or additional dairy products. Similarly, individuals can be intolerant to fructose in fruits.
- At times, intestinal issues like inflammatory bowel disease, Croons disease, celeriac disease, ulcerative colitis, or gallbladder disease can become a reason for loose motions.
- Altered immune function or tum ours can cause loose motions.
- Hereditary disorders like cystic fibrosis can be another cause of loose motions.
- Consuming unpasteurized or raw milk can negatively impact the digestive system which may lead to diarrhea.
- Malnutrition or deficiency of nutritious food can also be responsible for loose motions.
- Taking certain medicines like antibiotics can have a laxative effect which can trigger loose motions.
Effective Home Remedies for Loose Motions
Usually, loose motions or diarrhea is not a serious problem and may resolve on its own. However, it is bothersome owing to its irritable symptoms. Recurrent loose motions can lead to severe dehydration as the body tends to lose essential nutrients, and this could be dangerous for your health. Some natural remedies for loose motions include:
1. Yogurt
Yogurt contains a good quantity of probiotics (the good bacteria) which play a significant role in keeping the gut healthy. They fight the loose motion-causing bad bacteria. Yogurt possesses live cultures that produce lactic acid, that line the intestines and kill the nasty bacteria. Consumption of yogurt also supports better digestion by creating a healthy environment for microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar acts as a natural antibiotic which helps destroy the harmful organisms present in the intestine and soothes the irritated colon lining. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties shield the digestive system from soreness and infection. The pectin content aids in bulking up the stool and balancing the pH levels in the stomach, thus restoring regularity. It can be a wonderful remedy for loose motions. Apple cider vinegar may also provide relief from stomach pain.
3. Coconut Water
Coconut water contains electrolytes like potassium and sodium which can help restore the electrolyte balance of the body. It helps replenish the lost fluids in the body and boosts blood circulation. Its exceptional chemical composition does not only re hydrate, but also provides essential nutrients like amino acids, fatty acids, Vitamin C, magnesium, and enzymes which in turn promote stronger immunity. This refreshing beverage is a potent remedy for loose motions. Drinking coconut water is no doubt good for health, but it can also cure and prevent loose motions.
4. Bananas
Eat raw bananas if you have loose motions. Consuming bananas is tried and tested remedy for diarrhea and you will feel better soon.
The pectin content in bananas facilitates the absorption of fluids in the intestines which helps bulk up the stool. Bananas are also rich in potassium, which when consumed, can replenish the lost fluids in the body, thus diminishing the requirement of intravenous fluids or oral re hydration solutions.
5. Cumin Water
The antiseptic properties of cumin can assist in eliminating the damaging bacteria in the gut and settling the irritated bowels. It can re hydrate the body and help in keeping the body temperature normal. The high potassium content in it also helps balance and maintain the electrolyte levels in the body.
6. Ginger
According to Ayurveda, ginger can be an effective home remedy for loose motions which happen due to indigestion. Ginger has antibacterial properties which attack the harmful pathogens that trigger loose motions. It can lessen food stagnation and stimulate abdominal enzymes that improve proper digestion. It can relax stomach muscles and soothe distressed intestines.
7. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice has high anti-inflammatory and acidic properties which can both calm the sore intestines and restore the body’s pH balance. It also possesses minerals like magnesium and potassium which may help make up for the body’s lost nutrients.
8. Turmeric
Turmeric’s antibiotic property can improve the symptoms of loose motions by fighting bacteria in the intestines. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and is high in antioxidants, which can promote healthy digestion.
9. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile had antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties which can ease abdominal pain and help prevent loose motions. It can relieve inflammation and relax the abdominal muscles to promote proper functioning of the digestive system.
10. Buttermilk
Buttermilk is a good source of probiotics which is the friendly bacteria that can eradicate the bad bacteria from the intestines. It can also soothe the intestines and aid digestion.
11. Blueberry Tea
Blueberries contain antioxidants like anthologists and polyphony which can positively impact the digestive system and combat the problem of loose motions. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of blueberries can help fight destructive pathogens, reduce abdominal pain, and alleviate the symptoms of loose motions.
12. Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds are high in mucilage which assists in adding bulk to the stool and treating loose motions. The antibacterial and anti-fungal properties of fenugreek kill infection-causing microbes and promote better digestion.
13. Mint and Honey
Mint and honey together can reduce inflammation and calm the abdomen, thus easing the irritable symptoms of loose motions. Their antibacterial properties help regulate digestion by engaging the harmful pathogens responsible for digestive complications.
14. Cinnamon and Honey
The blend of cinnamon and honey can help in killing the harmful bacteria in the intestines that cause loose motions. It can activate the digestive enzymes to promote the well-being of the digestive system. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help lessen the symptoms that usually accompany loose motions.
15. Drumstick Leaves
Drumsticks are not only nutritious but also have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that can help treat a troubled tummy. It can help tackle gut issues by clearing toxins from the body and providing respite from digestive problems like nausea, abdominal pain, and gas.
16. Oat Bran
Oat bran is rich in fiber and nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. These nutrients help in bulking the watery stools and restoring the electrolytes balance in the body.