Diarrhea is an increase in the number of bowel movements and a change in the consistency of the stools, which become more liquid. Due to increased bowel movements, the body loses a lot of water, so the biggest problem with diarrhea is dehydration. Babies, children and the elderly must be extra careful, as they become dehydrated more easily than adults. Dehydration presents symptoms such as: dry mouth, chapped lips, lethargy, mental confusion and decreased urination, in addition to reduced levels of sodium and potassium, two important minerals for the functioning of our body.
Index
Causes of diarrhea
- Virus infections;
- Digestive tract dysfunction;
- Bacterial toxins such as staphylococci;
- Intestinal parasites that cause amoebiasis and giardiasis;
- Infections caused by bacteria such as Salmonella and Shighella;
- Excessive use of laxatives;
- Lactose intolerance (milk sugar);
- Side effects of some medications, such as some heart and cancer medications, excessive doses of vitamin C, and antibiotics;
- Intolerance to sorbitol, a sweetener derived from glucose.
Teas to treat diarrhea
- Boil two or three guava leaves in a cup of water. Let it cool and drink.
- Mix a cup of pomegranate peel , four tablespoons of lime and ½ cup of guava sprouts and add to a liter of boiling water. Leave to steep until cool and add a pinch of sea salt. The dosage of this tea is one tablespoon every 20 minutes.
- Boil a handful of rice in two cups of water, with a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of sugar. Strain and drink this broth.
- Chamomile , fennel and mint teas can help treat diarrhea.
Guidelines
During a diarrhea attack, the following guidelines are recommended:
- Drink lots of liquids, approximately 8 to 10 glasses of water, tea or natural juices so as not to dehydrate;
- Drink at least a glass of water after having diarrhea;
- Fruits such as bananas, guavas, pears and apples can help contain diarrhea;
- Prefer to eat foods such as rice, lean meat broth, bananas, apples and toast;
- Avoid coffee, milk, chocolate, black tea and alcohol.
- Suspend your intake of salads, fruit pomace and fiber.
