Bathroom Fear is Real: Understanding Diarrhea and Natural Remedies

Diarrhea is a common ailment that can strike at any time. It can be particularly debilitating and frustrating, especially if it develops while you are out in public, at work, or in the middle of the night. Sitting on the toilet for extended periods can leave you fatigued and with aching muscles. Despite the discomfort and inconvenience, many people do not seek medical attention for diarrhea, hoping that it will clear up on its own. However, often, diarrhea is a symptom of an underlying condition that needs addressing. Here, we will explore some natural remedies that can help bring relief and reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of diarrhea.

Make Herbal Tea Your Friend

Several herbal teas can help soothe an irritated digestive system, thus reducing the urge to go to the bathroom. Slippery elm tea, for instance, is particularly useful. Slippery elm contains a mucilage that can help calm inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract. Other beneficial teas to address diarrhea include red raspberry, nettle, mint, and cinnamon.

Recline and Relax

Lying on your back with a pillow under your knees and a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel on your abdomen can help ease pain, slow down the pressure, and calm muscle spasms and irritation associated with diarrhea. Deep breathing while in this position can help to calm the central nervous system, alleviating symptoms.

Sip on Bone or Vegetable Broth

Broth is a nourishing drink that can be incredibly soothing when you have diarrhea. Bone broth, in particular, is small in collagen and gelatin, which can help repair damaged cells in the digestive tract. Vegetable broth is an excellent alternative, with lots of nutrients that can replenish those exhausted by poor digestion. You can make broth at home in an Instant Pot or crockpot or buy pre-made bone broth at your local grocery store.

Avoid Dairy, Fat, Sugar and Excess Meat

Avoiding foods such as dairy, fat, sugar, and excess meat can help reduce irritation and give the digestive tract a break. These foods can be difficult to digest, and can be exhausting to process, contributing to diarrhea. For instance, some people can naturally have difficulty breaking down milk sugars, leading to lactose intolerance, which can cause digestive problems like diarrhea. Many meats are also high in fat, and lacking the enzyme needed to break down that fat can cause stress on the system.

Turn to the BRAT Diet

When you are recovering from diarrhea, sticking to a diet of soft, easily digestible foods can help ease symptoms. The BRAT diet includes bananas, rice, apples, and toast, which are excellent choices for this purpose.

Befriend Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that regulate the digestion process in our intestines. When we lose these bacteria, which can occur due to aging, stress, lack of fiber, or overuse of antibiotics, it can lead to issues such as diarrhea. To replenish these beneficial bacteria, consider taking probiotic supplements or adding fermented foods to your diet.

Load Up on Aloe Vera Juice

If you’re experiencing diarrhea, you may want to consider drinking aloe vera juice. The juice of the aloe plant has a soothing effect on the digestive tract and creates a coating that can prevent further irritation. It is recommended to drink 2-4 oz of aloe vera juice a few times a day if you’re having diarrhea or general digestive upset.

Slowly Increase Fiber Intake

Fiber has numerous benefits in aiding digestion, and increasing fiber intake can help clear out toxins and waste. Gradually increase your fiber intake to help nourish your digestive tract.

Make Clay Your Partner in Crime

Bentonite clay can help remove harmful toxins and bad bacteria in your intestines, allowing good bacteria to flourish. It acts as a vacuum, slowly pulling toxins from the digestive tract as it moves along. However, it is vital to use with caution, as it can dehydrate the body.

Help Your Body Better Breakdown Foods with Enzymes

If your body is struggling to produce digestive enzymes, it can lead to stress on the system. This stress can lead to slow or rapid transit time and hence diarrhea. Short-term supplementation with digestive enzymes can help your body better break down foods, making it easier for your system to absorb nutrients and maintain a healthy transit time.

Conclusion

Diarrhea can be uncomfortable, inconvenient, and sometimes embarrassing. It is essential to address it promptly and effectively. While medical attention may still be necessary, natural remedies can significantly alleviate symptoms. Always focus on adequate hydration, electrolyte replacement, and avoiding dehydration to provide your body with the support it needs during an episode of diarrhea.