Diarrhoea 101: Causes, Symptoms, Risks, Complications, Treatment, Prevention, Diet And More

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Diarrhoea is a common gastrointestinal condition that affects people of all ages. It can be caused by a number of factors, including infection or dietary choices. This article will look at diarrhoea, including its causes, symptoms, treatments, risks, complications, prevention strategies, dietary suggestions, and even some unusual herbal remedies.

What Is Diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea is characterised by frequent, loose, and watery bowel movements. It is the body's way of expelling harmful substances or irritants from the digestive system. While it is usually a temporary condition, chronic diarrhoea may indicate an underlying health issue.

Types Of Diarrhoea

• Acute diarrhoea: Lasts for a few days and is often caused by infections or dietary indiscretions.
• Chronic diarrhoea: Persists for several weeks and may be linked to underlying medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.

Causes Of Diarrhoea

• Infections: Bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections can all lead to diarrhea. Contaminated food, water, or poor hygiene can be contributing factors.
• Food poisoning: Consuming food contaminated with bacteria, toxins, or other harmful substances can trigger sudden diarrhea.
• Medications: Certain drugs, especially antibiotics, can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and cause diarrhea as a side effect.
• Food allergies: Food intolerances or allergies, such as lactose intolerance or celiac disease, can result in diarrhea after consuming trigger foods.
• Stress: Emotional stress can affect gut function, leading to diarrhea in some individuals.
• Chronic conditions: Underlying conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis can cause persistent diarrhea.

Uncommon Causes Of Diarrhoea

While the most common causes of diarrhea are typically related to infections, food intolerances, or medication side effects, there are some less common and unusual causes of diarrhea that can occur. These may include:

Excessive caffeine consumption: Consuming very high amounts of caffeine, typically from energy drinks or caffeine supplements, can lead to diarrhea as caffeine is a stimulant that can speed up digestion.

Laxative abuse: The misuse of over-the-counter or prescription laxatives, often associated with eating disorders or extreme weight control measures, can lead to chronic diarrhea.

Artificial sweeteners: Some sugar substitutes like sorbitol, found in sugar-free gum and candies, can have a laxative effect in some people, leading to diarrhea when consumed in excess.

Gastrointestinal surgery: Certain types of gastrointestinal surgeries, like gastric bypass surgery, can alter the digestive process and lead to a condition known as "dumping syndrome," causing diarrhea, cramps, and other symptoms.

Nerve disorders: Rare conditions, such as autonomic neuropathy, which affects the nerves controlling digestive processes, can lead to chronic diarrhea.

Hormonal imbalances: conditions like hyperthyroidism, which result in an overactive thyroid gland, can disrupt digestion and lead to diarrhea.

Microscopic colitis: This is a lesser-known type of inflammatory bowel disease that can cause chronic, watery diarrhea.

Foodborne parasites: While more common in certain regions with poor sanitation, foodborne parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium can cause prolonged diarrhea in some cases.

Carcinoid tumors: These rare tumors that produce hormones can occasionally cause a group of symptoms called carcinoid syndrome, which includes diarrhea, flushing, and other gastrointestinal problems.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) medications: Some medications used to manage IBD, such as certain biologics, can cause diarrhea as a side effect in some individuals.

Symptoms Of Diarrhoea

Loose stools: The primary symptom of diarrhea is the passage of loose, watery, and often unformed stools. These stools may vary in color and consistency.

Frequent bowel movements: Diarrhea typically involves more frequent trips to the restroom than what is normal for an individual. The increased urgency and frequency are common characteristics.

Abdominal cramps: Many people with diarrhea experience abdominal cramps or discomfort, which can range from mild to severe. These cramps are often caused by intestinal contractions.

Urgency: Diarrhea often comes with a sudden and urgent need to have a bowel movement, making it challenging to control when and where it occurs.

Dehydration: Prolonged or severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration may include dry mouth, extreme thirst, dark yellow urine, fatigue, and in severe cases, dizziness or fainting.

Fever: If the underlying cause of diarrhea is an infection, it may be accompanied by a fever, particularly in cases of bacterial or viral gastroenteritis.

Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals with diarrhea may also experience nausea and vomiting, especially when the digestive system is irritated.

Mucus or blood: In some cases, diarrhea can be accompanied by the presence of mucus or blood in the stool. This may indicate a more serious underlying condition and should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Risks And Complications Of Diarrhoea

Diarrhea can be particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, including children, older people, and pregnant women, as they may be more susceptible to its risks and complications.

Children:

Dehydration: Children are at a higher risk of dehydration due to their smaller body size and faster metabolic rate. Dehydration is a significant concern and can lead to a range of complications, including electrolyte imbalances and organ dysfunction.

Malnutrition: Prolonged diarrhea can lead to malnutrition in children, as they may not be absorbing essential nutrients properly, affecting their growth and development.

Weight loss: Severe or chronic diarrhea can lead to significant weight loss in children, which can be particularly problematic for their overall health.

Weakened immune system: Frequent or severe diarrhea can weaken a child's immune system, making them more susceptible to other illnesses and infections.

Impaired cognitive development: Malnutrition and dehydration resulting from chronic diarrhea can impact cognitive development in children.

Older people:

Dehydration: Older individuals may have reduced fluid reserves and decreased thirst perception, making them more vulnerable to dehydration.

Electrolyte imbalance: Older adults may have underlying medical conditions and take medications that affect their electrolyte balance, and diarrhea can exacerbate these imbalances.

Falls and fractures: Dehydration and weakness associated with diarrhea can increase the risk of falls and fractures in older people.

Medication interactions: Some older individuals are on multiple medications, and diarrhea can affect the absorption and effectiveness of these drugs, potentially leading to health complications.

Underlying health conditions: Older individuals often have preexisting health conditions, and diarrhea can worsen these conditions or be a symptom of more severe underlying problems.

Pregnant women:

Dehydration: Pregnant women are more prone to dehydration due to the increased demands on their bodies during pregnancy.

Electrolyte imbalance: Diarrhea can lead to electrolyte imbalances, which can be more dangerous during pregnancy.

Fetal complications: Severe or prolonged diarrhea during pregnancy can affect the health of the fetus, potentially leading to growth restrictions or preterm birth.

Maternal malnutrition: Chronic diarrhea can result in maternal malnutrition, affecting the health of both the mother and the developing fetus.

Infection risk: Pregnant women may be at higher risk of complications from infections that can cause diarrhea.

Diagnosing Diarrhoea

Diagnosing diarrhea typically involves a medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and to rule out more serious conditions. The diagnostic process may include the following steps:

Medical history: The healthcare provider will start by taking a detailed medical history. They will ask about the duration and frequency of diarrhea, associated symptoms, recent travel, dietary habits, and any medications or supplements being taken.

Physical examination: A physical examination is conducted to assess vital signs, check for signs of dehydration, and examine the abdomen for tenderness or other abnormalities.

Stool sample: In some cases, a stool sample may be collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis. This can help identify the presence of bacteria, parasites, or other infectious agents.

Blood tests: Blood tests may be ordered to check for signs of infection or inflammation. Elevated white blood cell counts, for example, can suggest an infection.

Imaging: In certain cases, such as when diarrhea is persistent or severe, the healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies like a CT scan or an endoscopy to examine the digestive tract for structural issues or signs of underlying conditions.

Endoscopy: An endoscopy involves using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. It can help identify conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.

Breath tests: Hydrogen breath tests may be used to detect conditions like lactose intolerance or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.

Colonoscopy: In cases where chronic or severe diarrhea is present, a colonoscopy may be performed to inspect the colon for abnormalities or signs of conditions like Crohn's disease or colorectal cancer.

Review of medications: The healthcare provider will review the patient's current medications to check for any potential side effects or interactions that may be contributing to diarrhea.

Treatment For Diarrhoea

The treatment of diarrhea depends on its underlying cause and severity. In most cases, diarrhea is a temporary condition and can be managed effectively at home. Here are common treatment approaches for diarrhea:

Rehydration: The primary goal in treating diarrhea is to prevent or address dehydration. Encourage the person with diarrhea, especially children and older adults, to drink plenty of clear fluids, such as water, clear broths, oral rehydration solutions (ORS), or electrolyte drinks. Sips of fluids should be taken frequently to stay hydrated.

Dietary modifications: While eating a bland diet can help, it's important to continue eating to maintain energy levels and provide essential nutrients. The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) can be a helpful guideline, but it should be supplemented with other easily digestible foods like plain pasta, boiled potatoes, or cooked carrots.

Over-the-counter medications: Antidiarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can help reduce the frequency of bowel movements and alleviate symptoms. These should be used with caution and only as directed, as they may not be suitable for all types of diarrhea, such as those caused by certain infections.

Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of gut flora. They may be taken as supplements or found in probiotic-rich foods like yogurt.

Herbal remedies: Some herbal remedies, such as ginger and chamomile, are known for their soothing properties and may help alleviate digestive discomfort.

Avoiding triggers: If the diarrhea is linked to a particular food intolerance, allergy, or medication, it's crucial to identify and avoid these triggers to prevent recurrent episodes.

Treatment of underlying causes: If the diarrhea is caused by an infection, medication, or an underlying medical condition, the underlying cause should be treated or managed appropriately.

This may involve antibiotics for bacterial infections, discontinuing medications with diarrhea as a side effect, or managing chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.

When To See A Doctor?

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper guidance and treatment, especially in the following situations:

• Severe dehydration: If signs of severe dehydration are present, intravenous (IV) fluids may be necessary.
• Prolonged diarrhea: If diarrhea persists for more than a few days, or if it is recurrent and chronic, a healthcare provider should be consulted to identify the underlying cause.
• Blood in stools: The presence of blood in the stool can be a sign of a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
• Fever or severe symptoms: High fever, severe abdominal pain, or other concerning symptoms should prompt a doctor's visit.

How To Prevent Diarrhoea?

Preventing diarrhea involves a combination of good hygiene practices, safe food and water handling, and, in some cases, vaccinations. Here are some key measures to help prevent diarrhea:

Hand hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, especially before eating, after using the toilet, and after changing diapers. Proper handwashing can significantly reduce the risk of spreading infections that can cause diarrhea.

Safe water: Ensure that the water you drink and use for cooking and washing is safe. If you're in an area with questionable water quality, use bottled water, or boil and filter water before consumption.

Food safety:

• Cook foods to the recommended temperatures to kill harmful bacteria.
• Avoid consuming raw or undercooked eggs, meat, and seafood.
• Refrigerate perishable foods promptly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating or cooking.

Personal hygiene:

• Avoid touching your face, mouth, or eyes with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with individuals who have diarrhea, especially in healthcare settings.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of infection.

Food handling during travel: When traveling, be cautious about the food and water you consume, especially in regions with lower sanitation standards. Stick to bottled water and eat at reputable, well-cooked food establishments.

Child care: If you have young children, take extra care with their hygiene:

• Ensure that their toys and play areas are regularly cleaned and disinfected.
• Change diapers in a sanitary manner and wash hands thoroughly afterwards.

Vaccinations: In some cases, vaccinations can prevent specific diarrheal diseases. For example, rotavirus vaccines are recommended for infants to prevent rotavirus-induced diarrhea.

Breastfeeding: If possible, breastfeed your infant. Breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies that help protect against infections, including those that can cause diarrhea.

Avoid unnecessary antibiotics: Use antibiotics only when prescribed by a healthcare professional and take them as directed. Overuse or misuse of antibiotics can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and potentially lead to diarrhea.

Stress management: Stress can affect digestive health. Practice stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, and relaxation exercises.

Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine: High alcohol and caffeine intake can irritate the digestive system. Moderation is key.

Avoid food allergens: If you have known food allergies or intolerances, avoid the trigger foods to prevent diarrhea.

Travel precautions: If travelling to regions with poor sanitation or unsafe water, take extra precautions, such as avoiding tap water, using bottled water, and consuming well-cooked foods.

Some causes of diarrhea, like viral infections, can be difficult to prevent entirely, but following these preventive measures can significantly reduce your risk of contracting diarrhea.

How To Stop Diarrhoea Fast?

Stopping diarrhea quickly often involves addressing the underlying cause while also managing the symptoms. Here are some steps to help stop diarrhea fast:

Rehydration: The primary goal is to prevent or address dehydration. Drink clear fluids in small sips throughout the day. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) can be especially effective, as they contain electrolytes that help replace lost fluids and maintain the body's electrolyte balance. You can purchase ORS sachets at drugstores or prepare your own by mixing clean water, sugar, and salt. Sip these fluids slowly to stay hydrated.

BRAT Diet: The BRAT diet consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These bland, low-fiber foods can help firm up stools. They are easy to digest and can provide some nourishment.

Probiotics: Probiotic supplements or probiotic-rich foods like yogurt can help restore the balance of gut bacteria, which may have been disrupted by diarrhea.

Antidiarrheal medications: Over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) can help reduce the frequency of bowel movements and alleviate symptoms. These should be used with caution and only as directed, as they may not be suitable for all types of diarrhea.

Rest: Allow your body to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous physical activity and get adequate sleep.

Hygiene: Practice good hygiene, including thorough handwashing, to prevent the spread of infectious causes of diarrhea.

Consult a doctor: If your diarrhea is severe, persistent, or accompanied by concerning signs like blood in the stool, high fever, or signs of dehydration, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

They may be able to identify and address the underlying cause of your diarrhea more effectively.

Diarrhoea-friendly Diet: What To Eat And What To Avoid?

What to eat:

When you have diarrhea, it is essential to choose foods that are gentle on the stomach and help firm up the stools. Here are some dietary recommendations for managing diarrhea, including some Indian foods:

1. Plain rice: Plain, well-cooked white rice is easy to digest and can help absorb excess water in the stool. In India, dishes like khichdi (a mix of rice and lentils) or simply plain steamed rice are suitable choices.

2. Curd (yogurt): Plain yogurt contains probiotics, which can help restore the balance of gut bacteria. Opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt, which is often served as a side dish or used in raita in Indian cuisine.

3. Bananas: Bananas are rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that can help absorb excess liquid in the intestines. They're easy to digest and can provide essential nutrients. Banana chips, a popular Indian snack, are a good option when they are plain without added spices.

4. Boiled potatoes: Potatoes are starchy and easy to digest. You can consume boiled or mashed potatoes without spices or rich gravies.

5. Toast or plain roti: Simple, plain, and well-toasted bread or roti (Indian flatbread) can be easy on the stomach.

6. Sabudana khichdi: Sabudana (tapioca pearls) khichdi is a popular Indian dish that is easy to digest and often recommended for people with diarrhea.

7. Pomegranate: Pomegranate seeds are known to have astringent properties and can help in firming up loose stools.

8. Coconut water: Coconut water is a natural electrolyte-rich beverage that can help prevent dehydration. It's a common and soothing drink in Indian regions with coconut palms.

9. Coriander water: Boiled coriander seeds or leaves can be consumed as a soothing drink, as they are believed to have medicinal properties that help with digestive issues.

10. Dal (lentil) water: A simple, mild lentil soup made from moong dal (split green gram) or masoor dal (red lentils) can be nutritious and easy to digest.

11. Curd rice: Curd rice is a popular South Indian dish made from cooked rice mixed with yoghurt and sometimes tempered with cumin seeds, curry leaves, and ginger. It's soothing and can help with digestion.

12. Rice water: The starchy water left over from cooking rice can be consumed as a drink and is thought to be helpful in managing diarrhea.

13. The BRAT diet, which stands for Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast, has long been recommended for easing digestive discomfort during diarrhea. Here's a list of foods and dietary guidelines to consider when dealing with diarrhea:

BRAT Diet: The BRAT diet includes the following foods:

• Bananas: They are easily digestible, provide potassium, and help firm up stools.
• Rice: Plain white rice is a bland, starchy food that can help bulk up stools.
• Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce is a gentle source of fiber and nutrients.
• Toast: Plain, white toast is easy on the stomach and can be an effective source of carbohydrates.

What to avoid:

When experiencing diarrhea, it is advisable to avoid certain foods and beverages, including some of your favourite foods that may be particularly harsh on the digestive system. Here's a list of items to avoid:

Spicy foods: Many Indian dishes are known for their spiciness. Spicy foods can irritate the digestive tract and worsen diarrhea. Dishes containing chili peppers, curry, or excessive spices should be avoided.

Fried and fatty foods: Deep-fried items, like samosas and pakoras, as well as rich, greasy curries, can exacerbate diarrhea. The high fat content can be hard to digest.

Dairy products: Avoid dairy products, particularly if you are lactose intolerant. Traditional Indian dishes like paneer-based curries, ghee, and milk-based desserts can trigger or worsen diarrhea in people with lactose intolerance.

Raw or undercooked eggs and meat: Raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, or meat may contain harmful bacteria that can cause or worsen diarrhea. Ensure that meats and eggs are cooked thoroughly.

High-fibre foods: While fibre is typically good for digestion, high-fibre foods like whole grains and lentils can exacerbate diarrhea. Choose low-fiber grains and legumes instead.

Onions and garlic: Some individuals find that onions and garlic can be difficult to digest and may worsen digestive issues, including diarrhea.

Carbonated beverages: Soda and carbonated beverages can contribute to gas and bloating, which may worsen diarrhea symptoms.

Caffeinated beverages: Coffee and tea, especially in excess, can have a laxative effect and should be consumed in moderation.

Alcohol: Alcohol can dehydrate the body and irritate the digestive system, making it a poor choice when dealing with diarrhea.

Artificial sweeteners: Some sugar substitutes like sorbitol, often found in sugar-free gum and candies, can have a laxative effect and should be avoided.

Home Remedies For Diarrhoea

Mild cases of diarrhea can often be managed with home remedies to alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. However, it is important to remember that if diarrhea is severe, persistent, or accompanied by concerning symptoms like blood in the stool, high fever, or signs of dehydration, you should seek medical attention.

Here are some home remedies to consider for mild diarrhea:

Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS): This is one of the most effective home remedies for diarrhea. ORS helps replace lost fluids and electrolytes. You can purchase ORS sachets at drugstores or make your own by mixing 1 liter of clean water, 6 teaspoons of sugar, and 0.5 teaspoon of salt. Sip the solution slowly throughout the day.

Clear fluids: In addition to ORS, clear fluids like water, clear broths, and clear herbal teas can help keep you hydrated. Sip fluids frequently to prevent dehydration.

BRAT diet: The BRAT diet consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These bland, easily digestible foods can help firm up stools and provide some nourishment.

Probiotics: Probiotic supplements or probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt can help restore the balance of gut bacteria, which may have been disrupted by diarrhea.

Bland foods: In addition to the BRAT diet, other bland, low-fibre foods like plain pasta, boiled potatoes, and cooked carrots can be easily tolerated during diarrhea.

Rest: Allow your body to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous physical activity and get adequate sleep.

Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid specific foods, beverages, or substances that trigger or worsen your diarrhea, especially if you have known food intolerances or allergies.

Hygiene: Practice good hygiene, including thorough handwashing, to prevent the spread of infectious causes of diarrhea.

Cautious medication use: Avoid non-prescription medications like over-the-counter antidiarrheals (e.g., loperamide) unless recommended by a healthcare provider. These medications may not be suitable for all types of diarrhea.

Herbal Remedies For Diarrhoea

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to help alleviate digestive discomfort, including diarrhea. Here are some herbal remedies that are known for their potential soothing properties:

Ginger: Ginger is well-regarded for its digestive benefits. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties that can help soothe an upset stomach and alleviate diarrhea. You can make ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger slices or ginger powder in hot water. Sip the tea slowly throughout the day.

Chamomile: Chamomile is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help relax the digestive tract, reducing cramps and discomfort. Prepare chamomile tea by steeping dried chamomile flowers in hot water. Chamomile tea is especially soothing and can be consumed as needed.

Peppermint: Peppermint has a cooling and soothing effect on the digestive system and can help alleviate gas, bloating, and diarrhea. You can make peppermint tea by steeping fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water. Be cautious with peppermint if you have acid reflux, as it can sometimes worsen symptoms.

Fennel: Fennel seeds and fennel tea are believed to have carminative properties, which means they may help relieve digestive discomfort, including diarrhea and gas. Steep fennel seeds in hot water to make fennel tea.

Cinnamon: Cinnamon may help control diarrhea by reducing intestinal spasms. You can make cinnamon tea by adding a cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon to hot water.

Blackberry leaf tea: Blackberry leaves are known for their astringent properties, which can help reduce diarrhea. Steep blackberry leaves in hot water to make tea.

Banana infusion: Infusing ripe bananas in hot water to create a banana tea is an old home remedy for diarrhea. Bananas are rich in pectin, which can help firm up stools.

Lemon balm: Lemon balm is a calming herb that may help relieve stress-related diarrhea. Steep lemon balm leaves in hot water to prepare a soothing tea.

Beverages For Diarrhoea

When dealing with diarrhea, it is important to focus on staying hydrated with clear fluids to prevent dehydration. There are several beverages that can be suitable for hydrating and soothing the digestive system during diarrhea.

Buttermilk (chaas): Buttermilk is a traditional Indian drink made by thinning yoghurt with water and adding salt and spices like cumin. It's rich in probiotics and can help restore the balance of gut bacteria.

Coconut water: Coconut water is a natural electrolyte-rich drink that can help with rehydration. It's easy on the stomach and can be effective in preventing dehydration.

Mint (pudina) tea: Mint tea is known for its soothing properties and can help relieve digestive discomfort. It's prepared by steeping fresh mint leaves in hot water. You can also add a little honey for flavour.

Coriander (dhaniya) water: Coriander seeds are believed to have anti-diarrheal properties. You can prepare coriander water by boiling coriander seeds in water, allowing them to cool, and then straining the liquid.

Jeera water: Cumin (jeera) water is thought to have digestive benefits. To make jeera water, boil cumin seeds in water, strain, and drink it warm.

Rice water: Rice water, the starchy water left over after cooking rice, can be soothing for the digestive tract. You can drink it plain or add a pinch of salt for flavour.

Tulsi (holy basil) tea: Holy basil leaves are used in traditional Indian medicine for their potential digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. You can make tulsi tea by steeping fresh tulsi leaves in hot water.

Amla juice: Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is known for its high vitamin C content and potential digestive benefits. Amla juice can be consumed to support overall health, including digestive well-being.

Consume these beverages in small sips throughout the day to stay hydrated. Avoid adding excessive sugar or dairy to these beverages, as high sugar and lactose content can sometimes worsen diarrhea.

Bizzare Remedies For Diarrhoea

Unconventional remedies for diarrhea are sometimes tried by individuals, but their effectiveness is often not scientifically proven, and they may not be suitable for everyone. Please approach such remedies with caution and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Here are a few unconventional remedies that people sometimes use for diarrhea:

Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is known for its ability to absorb toxins, but its effectiveness in treating diarrhea is not well-established. Some people use it to absorb toxins that may be causing the diarrhoea, but it can also interfere with the absorption of medications and nutrients.

Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is believed by some to have antibacterial properties and may help balance the gut flora. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support its use as a treatment for diarrhea. Its high acidity may also irritate the digestive tract.

Clay: Some individuals use edible clay (such as bentonite or kaolin) to absorb toxins and soothe the digestive system. While clay is sometimes used in traditional medicine, it's not a widely recognised treatment for diarrhea.

Banana stem juice: In some traditional systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda, banana stem juice is believed to have potential anti-diarrheal properties. However, scientific research on its effectiveness is limited.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for any medical concerns or issues.