Diarrhea is actually a natural defense mechanism. It is a way for your body to release toxins or other harmful things from your system. In the past, before this was understood, doctors usually prescribed antidiarrheal medication, but today they would recommend that you let it run its course naturally.
Antidiarrheal medication will stop your body from performing it’s own natural defense mechanism and will often lead to a prolonged illness and a weakening of your body’s defenses.
With this in mind we will be looking at natural remedies for diarrhea that will help you to feel more comfortable and to speed up the process naturally. Going this route will make your natural system stronger.
Carrots
Carrots naturally contain beneficial electrolytes and minerals which are lost during diarrhea. Adults and bigger children may nibble on fresh carrots while infants may be given strained carrots. Carrots will lessen the symptoms and speed up the recovery time.
Broth
For children over a year old chicken or beef broth will help them to feel better as well as to keep them hydrated and speed up the recovery time. NOTE: Most broth contains a high sodium content. Read the label and opt for the lowest sodium you can get.
Drink Fluids
Most everyone knows how important it is to drink fluids, but you have to drink the right ones. Fluids with moderate salt and sugar content are best because they will replace essential minerals and glucose that have been lost. Gatorade, or something similar works well.
You may also make your own rehydration solution by adding one teaspoon of sugar and a small pinch of table salt to a quart of water. If you want something that will taste better you may add about 1/2 teaspoon of honey and a small pinch of salt to your favorite fruit juice.
NOTE: Do not give plain water or fruit juices to an infant or small child with diarrhea. To stave off dehydration use a rehydration solution such as Pedialyte.
Food
Believe it or not eating the proper foods is one of the best home remedies for diarrhea. If you do not eat the right types of food your condition may worsen and take longer to run its course.
Blueberries
Dried blueberries and blueberry root has been used as a folk remedy for diarrhea for a very long time. Blueberries contain anthocyanosides which has antioxidant as well as antibacterial properties.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is a great herb for treating intestinal problems. While you can get prepackaged chamomile it is recommended that you obtain fresh chamomile flowers. Steep one teaspoon in a cup of boiling water for 15 minutes. (Remove from heat before adding the herb).
Foods and Folk Remedies to Avoid
Some foods and remedies that have been recommended, or marketed, by some actually work to bind up the bowels. This will serve to prolong the condition and at the same time will cause whatever the root problem is to remain within your body for a longer period of time. This means that the so-called remedy is working against your own body.
Foods and remedies to avoid include: carob powder, pectin, bananas, acidophilus tablets, Swiss cheese, barley, and many exotic teas.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Infants, small children, and the elderly who suffer from prolonged diarrhea are at risk of dehydration and should be taken to a doctor. Anyone suffering from diarrhea accompanied with cramping, fever, or rashes should see a doctor.
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