Diarrhea - Do's & Don'ts

One of the most serious risks associated with diarrhea is dehydration. Losing excess amounts of fluid from the body can result in lethargy and sunken eyes. Some of the major symptoms of diarrhea include a dry mouth, urinating less than usual and crying without manufacture of adequate tears.

When you are experiencing diarrheic symptoms, you may often turn to sodas or other sugary drinks to provide replenishment for lost fluids in the system. This is actually not a good idea, as sugar actually worsens symptoms of diarrhea. This is because sugar dilutes stools when they are being absorbed by the intestines.

Fiber is one of the most essential nutrients that you must take for speedy treatment of diarrhea. This is because soluble fiber facilitates water absorption in the intestines, aiding in the firming up of stools considerably. Insoluble fibers however, especially those found in raw vegetable and fruit skins, may have a reverse effect, leading to the speeding up of stool discharge in the intestines. Suggested foods include beans, oat bran and peas, which are rich in soluble fibers.

The caffeine found in coffee, tea and other soft drinks actually speed up bowel regulation, making it work faster. This is because it acts as a stimulant to the intestines and accelerates bowel emptying considerably. Even decaffeinated coffee should be avoided, as the trace amounts of caffeine that it does contain may be enough for bowel stimulation.