Loose motion, or diarrhoea, is a common problem that can affect anyone. It usually involves frequent, watery stools and may be caused by infections, food poisoning, stress, or certain medications. While it often clears up on its own, it can be uncomfortable and tiring. Fortunately, there are simple home remedies that can help manage symptoms and accelerate recovery. In this article, we will explore the primary causes of loose motion and provide a few simple home remedies to alleviate it. Diarrhoea is a very common issue, with nearly 179 million episodes occurring annually in the US alone [1].
Common Triggers of Loose Motion
Diarrhoea is defined as passing three or more loose or watery stools a day [2]. It can be triggered by various factors that disrupt the normal function of the digestive system.
1. Diet and Eating Habits
Diet plays a significant role in digestive health. Consuming excessive amounts of caffeine and alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to loose stools. Similarly, certain types of sugars, such as lactose and sugar alcohols (e.g., sorbitol, xylitol) found in sugar-free products, are poorly absorbed by some individuals. This malabsorption can lead to bloating, cramping, and diarrhoea. People who are lactose intolerant often experience loose motion after consuming milk or dairy products, as their body lacks the enzyme needed to digest lactose.
2. Infections or Food Poisoning
Infections or food poisoning are among the most common causes of loose stools [2]. Bacteria, parasites, or viruses can cause inflammation in the intestines and stomach, which can result in diarrhoea. Common bacterial culprits include Salmonella and E. coli [3].
3. Chronic Inflammatory Conditions
Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn’s disease is a chronic disorder in which the digestive system’s lining becomes inflamed. It might cause diarrhoea and sluggish bowel movements. Ulcerative colitis, another inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), also frequently causes persistent diarrhoea due to inflammation in the large intestine [4].
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye) causes inflammation and damage to the small intestine. This damage impairs nutrient absorption and often leads to symptoms like diarrhoea, weight loss, and bloating. People with celiac disease must strictly avoid gluten to manage their symptoms.
4. Other Underlying Medical Conditions
Malabsorption of Bile Acids
Bile acids are essential for fat digestion, and any disruption in their absorption can lead to diarrhoea. This condition is often associated with diseases of the small intestine or gallbladder removal. In bile acid malabsorption, excess bile acids enter the colon, stimulating water secretion and resulting in loose stools. This condition may require medical treatment with bile acid-binding agents.
Thyroid Hyperactivity (Hyperthyroidism)
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones. This can speed up metabolism and gastrointestinal motility, often leading to frequent or loose bowel movements. Other symptoms may include weight loss, increased heart rate, anxiety, and heat intolerance.
Chronic Pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term condition characterised by the persistent inflammation of the pancreas, which impairs the production of digestive enzymes necessary for breaking down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. As a result, undigested food passes quickly through the intestines, causing oily, foul-smelling diarrhoea known as steatorrhoea. This condition requires medical evaluation and often enzyme replacement therapy.
Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system. Thick, sticky mucus builds up in the pancreas and blocks the release of digestive enzymes. This leads to poor nutrient absorption and frequent loose stools. While it is more common in children, cystic fibrosis-related diarrhoea may continue into adulthood if untreated.
Dumping Syndrome (Rapid Gastric Emptying)
Dumping syndrome occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine, often as a result of gastric surgery. This rapid emptying can overwhelm the digestive process and cause symptoms such as nausea, cramping, and diarrhoea. It is most commonly seen after bariatric (weight-loss) procedures or stomach surgery.
Home Remedies and Supportive Care for Loose Motion
In most mild cases, loose motion resolves on its own and doesn’t require medical intervention. However, prolonged diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. To manage symptoms and support recovery, several home remedies can be effective. It is crucial to focus on rehydration and diet modification first.
- Drink plenty of water and electrolytes: This is the most critical step. Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is highly recommended to replace lost water and essential salts. Sports drinks, diluted juices, and broths can also help [2].
- Take probiotics: Consuming foods rich in live active cultures (probiotics), like curd/yoghurt, may help support the normal functioning of the gut and intestines by restoring the balance of gut bacteria [5]. It can be eaten plain or mixed with honey.
- Follow the BRAT Diet (for a short duration): Eating bland, easily digestible foods can help firm up stools. The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is often suggested for short-term relief.
- Anti-diarrhoea medicine prescribed by your doctor: Over-the-counter medications can provide symptom relief, but you should always consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking them, as they can sometimes prolong infection-related diarrhoea.
When considering natural ingredients for relief, remember that these should only complement supportive care and rehydration. Evidence for many traditional remedies is often limited, and they should not replace medical treatment for severe or chronic diarrhoea.
Traditional Remedies for Supportive Relief
1. Curd/Yoghurt
Curd is known for its probiotic content, which may help support the normal functioning of the gut and intestines. It can be eaten plain or mixed with honey.
2. Cumin Seeds (Jeera)
Traditional medicine suggests that cumin seeds boiled in water create a soothing drink that can help ease mild diarrhoea and reduce flatulence. Some animal studies suggest an anti-diarrhoeal effect [6]. The mixture should be cooled before consumption. This remedy is generally safe for adults.
3. Ginger
Ginger is well-known for its ability to relieve stomach and abdominal discomfort. It is traditionally used to aid digestion. To reap the health benefits, drink ginger water or ginger tea.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory spice that contains the chemical curcumin. While promising, more robust clinical evidence is needed to confirm its specific effectiveness in managing acute diarrhoea in humans. To potentially relieve gastrointestinal pain and diarrhoea, mix turmeric powder with warm water and drink.
5. Seeds of Fennel (Saunf)
Fennel seeds have carminative properties, which may help reduce gas and bloating. Boiling fennel seeds in water and drinking the cooled broth can help soothe the digestive tract.
6. Honey
Honey is known for its antimicrobial and soothing effects. It may help in rehydration when mixed with ORS. A systematic review suggested that a honey-ORS solution may modestly reduce the duration of diarrhoea [7]. A tablespoon of honey can be taken on its own or added to herbal teas. However, honey should not be given to children under one year due to the risk of infant botulism.
7. Mint Leaves
Mint has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. It is thought to have a calming effect on the smooth muscle of the digestive tract, which may help reduce spasms [8]. To use mint as a remedy, soak fresh leaves in water for one hour, then strain and consume the resulting liquid.
When to Consult a Doctor
Most loose motions caused by dietary habits or mild infections improve within a couple of days with simple steps like rehydration and diet modification.
However, immediate medical evaluation is necessary if diarrhoea persists for more than two days or is accompanied by any of the following severe symptoms:
- High fever (over 102 ℉ or 38.9 ℃ )
- Blood or pus in the stool
- Severe abdominal or rectal pain
- Signs of severe dehydration (e.g., excessive thirst, reduced urination, dry mouth, dizziness)
Infections may sometimes require antibiotics, and chronic conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or pancreatitis, necessitate ongoing medical management and often specialised care. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or treat severe symptoms.
References
[1] Nemeth, V., & Pfleghaar, N. (2024). Diarrhea. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448082/
[2] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2023). Diarrhea. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diarrhea
[3] Akhondi, H., & Simonsen, K. A. (2024). Bacterial Diarrhea. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551643/
[4] Mayo Clinic. (2023). Ulcerative Colitis. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ulcerative-colitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353326
[5] Wang, F., Li, Y., Wu, X., Song, X., Zhang, Y., & Li, S. (2020). Probiotics for the prevention and treatment of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Functional Foods, 64, 103708. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2019.103708
[6] Kori, M., Sahoo, H., Sahoo, S., Sarangi, S., & Sagar, R. (2014). Anti-diarrhoeal investigation from aqueous extract of Cuminum cyminum Linn. Seed in Albino rats. Pharmacognosy Research, 6(3), 204. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-8490.132596
[7] Andayani, R. P., Nurhaeni, N., & Agustini, N. (2019). The Effect of Honey with ORS and a Honey Solution in ORS on Reducing the Frequency of Diarrhoea and Length of Stay for Toddlers. Comprehensive Child and Adolescent Nursing, 42(sup1), 21–28. https://doi.org/10.1080/24694193.2019.1577922
[8] Alam, M. S., Ghafoor, K., & Al-Said, A. F. (2023). The therapeutic potential of Mentha piperita in gastrointestinal disorders. Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 30(1), 103494. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2022.103494
Leave a Reply