People with diarrhea are less able to absorb nutrients or water in the intestines.
If diarrhea persists, it can cause severe dehydration and require emergency medical intervention.
In most cases, diarrhea will resolve on its own with minimaltreatment.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
In cases like this, diarrhea may be considered protective.
Water is always the best choice but any clear liquid will do.
Milk may be okay for milder cases but can prolong or worsen diarrhea in some.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine, both of which have diuretic (water-excreting) effects.
Avoid sports drinks like Gatorade since their high sugar content can actually worsen diarrhea.
This is especially true for people withantibiotic-associated diarrheaor acute gastroenteritis (“stomach flu”).
But, not all probiotic cultures are effective in providing relief.
If you decide to use anover-the-counter anti-diarrheal, limit yourself at first to a bismuthsubsalicylate likePepto-Bismol.
Anti-diarrheal medications should never be used as a substitute for standard medical care.
This is especially true if the symptoms are persistent or recurrent, regardless of the severity.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the cause.
Diarrhea from food poisoning is a protective reaction to expel the toxin from your body.
Likewise, diarrhea from viral gastritis is your body’s way of removing the virus from the body.
In general, these illnesses should be allowed to run their course for a day or more.
Diarrhea that lasts more than 48 hours or is accompanied by signs of dehydration should be treated.
If you have diarrhea that persists for weeks or recurs frequently, see your doctor.
Diarrhea can often be treated with certain starchy foods.
Probiotics are also recommended for a natural treatment for diarrhea triggered by antibiotics or viral gastritis.
Look for probiotic strains listed as live, active cultures.
If you have diarrhea, it is also important to stay hydrated.
Be sure to drink plenty of water, herbal tea, or an electrolyte drink like Gatorade or Pedialyte.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine that can make diarrhea worse.
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