💧Diarrhea occurs when stool becomes loose, watery, and more frequent than usual. It can be mild and short-lived or, in some cases, part of an underlying illness, but most cases improve with proper care, hydration, and dietary support.
😟 Symptoms & Description of the Illness
People experiencing diarrhea may notice:
- Frequent loose or watery stools
- Stomach cramps or abdominal discomfort
- Urgent need to use the bathroom
- Bloating or gas
- Nausea
- Mild fever (sometimes)
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine)
Most cases last 1–3 days and are caused by infections, food intolerance, medications, or digestive upset.
🚫 Things to Avoid
Avoiding the wrong foods and habits can make recovery much easier.
Avoid:
- Greasy or fried foods
- Spicy foods
- Dairy (especially if lactose intolerant)
- Caffeine and energy drinks
- Alcohol
- High-sugar drinks and juices
- Raw vegetables (hard to digest during flare-ups)
- Beans, cabbage, and other gas-causing foods
✅ Things to Do & Eat
Helpful Foods
- BRAT-friendly options: Bananas, rice, applesauce, toast
- Plain oatmeal
- Boiled potatoes
- Clear soups and broths
- Steamed carrots
- Saltine crackers
- Electrolyte drinks (oral rehydration solutions)
Helpful Habits
- Sip fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration
- Eat small, gentle meals
- Rest to support recovery
- Gradually reintroduce everyday foods once stools firm up
- Wash your hands often to avoid spreading infectious causes
🍵 Recommended Home Remedy
Warm Rice Water Hydration Drink
Rice water is soothing for the digestive system, helps thicken stool, and naturally replenishes fluids—especially helpful for mild diarrhea.
🥣 How to Make It
Ingredients (1–2 servings)
- ½ cup white rice
- 4 cups water
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: ½ teaspoon honey (avoid if a stomach infection causes diarrhea)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice briefly to remove excess starch.
- Add rice and water to a pot.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes.
- Strain the liquid into a clean mug or container.
- Add a pinch of salt and an optional tiny amount of honey for taste.
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Drink warm or at room temperature.
☕ Usage Tips
- Sip ½–1 cup at a time throughout the day.
- Combine with electrolyte sources, such as broths or oral rehydration solutions.
- Ideal for both children and adults (avoid honey for children under 1 year).
- If symptoms persist more than 48 hours, worsen, or are accompanied by high fever or dehydration, seek medical care.
🧊 Shelf / Fridge Life
Rice water stays fresh for:
- Fridge: Up to 24 hours in a sealed container
- Room temperature: Not recommended for storage—bacteria can grow quickly
- Warm before serving if desired
Make small batches daily for best safety and effectiveness.