Loose motions, which are watery and occur three or more times a day, are common. They can be caused by various factors such as contaminated food or water, infections, medications, food intolerances, digestive problems, or recent stomach surgeries. While acute loose stools usually go away in a few days, it may indicate a chronic condition if they last for over four weeks. 

The good news is that there are home remedies that can help provide relief and speed up recovery. In this article, we will explore effective home remedies for loose motion treatment at home and important information about the causes, symptoms, and when to seek immediate medical care.

Loose Motion Symptoms

Loose motion can present with the following symptoms:

1. Abdominal cramps or pain

2. Urgent need to use the bathroom

3. Loss of bowel control

4. Fever, chills, and occasionally bloody stools (in cases of viral or bacterial infections). 

Loose motion can lead to dehydration, a potentially serious condition, particularly among children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Signs of dehydration include excessive thirst, dry mouth, decreased urine output, dizziness, and fatigue.

Loose Motion Reasons

Loose motion can be caused by several factors, including:

1. Bacterial or viral infections

Contaminated food or water, and viruses like the flu, norovirus, or rotavirus, can lead to acute loose motion.

2. Parasitic infections

Consumption of contaminated food or water containing tiny parasites can result in loose motion.

3. Medication side effects

Antibiotics, certain cancer drugs, and antacids containing magnesium can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system.

4. Food intolerances and sensitivities

Difficulty in digesting certain ingredients or lactose intolerance can trigger loose motion.

5. Underlying diseases or disorders

Conditions like Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, or abnormalities in colon function can contribute to chronic loose motion.

Home Remedies For Loose Motion And Dysentery

1. Ensure Adequate Fluid Intake

To treat loose motions effectively, it's important to stay hydrated. 

• Drinking enough fluids is a key remedy. Even if it's just small sips, drink fluids throughout the day to avoid dehydration and weakness. 
• You can also try drinking oral rehydration solution (ORS) to replace lost electrolytes. You can use pre-formulated ORS packets or make a homemade solution using 1 litre of water, six teaspoons of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. 
• Stick to water, herbal teas, clear soups, non-fizzy drinks, and soy milk. 
• Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages as they can worsen fluid loss.

2. Eating BRAT Diet for Few Days

When you have loose stools, changing what you eat can help you manage your condition immensely. 

• Switch to the BRAT diet, which means eating bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast for a few days. 
• Research studies have shown that the BRAT diet may be beneficial in managing diarrhoea for a day or two as the bland diet is easy on the GI tract, but do not make this diet regular as it lacks essential nutrients. 
• You can also eat boiled potatoes, dry crackers, and skinless chicken, beef, or fish.

3. Restrict Intake of Foods High in Fiber

Eating foods with lots of fibre can make loose stools worse.

• Fibre adds bulk to the stool and can speed up bowel movements, leading to more frequent bowel movements. 
• Avoid cereals, whole-grain bread, pasta, dried and fresh fruits, nuts, and certain vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and beans. 

4. Rest and Regain Strength

Loose stools can make you feel tired and weak because you lose fluids and electrolytes. Resting for a few days gives your body time to recover. Ask your family and friends for help with everyday tasks like cooking and chores to save energy and help you heal.

5. Add Probiotics To Your Meals

Probiotics are good bacteria that can help balance your gut and possibly reduce the frequency of loose stools. You can get probiotics in capsules or liquid supplements. You can also add probiotic foods such as yoghurt, buttermilk, kimchi, apple cider vinegar and pickles to your meals. It's a good idea to talk to a doctor or healthcare professional to find out which probiotics are the best for you and how much you should take.

6. Consume High-sodium Foods

To replace lost electrolytes, consume High-sodium (salt) foods. Good options include:

• Broths
• Soups
• Sports drinks
• Crackers
• Boiled vegetables

These foods not only provide necessary sodium but also help rehydrate the body.

7. Incorporate Potassium-rich Foods

Diarrhoea can lead to losing essential minerals, including potassium. To replenish potassium levels, include foods high in potassium such as:

• Bananas
• Potatoes
• Spinach
• Apricots
• Sports drinks 

These are excellent sources of potassium and can help restore electrolyte balance.

How To Treat Loose Motion In Children?

Remedies that may help stop loose motion in children include;

• Stick to a regular diet: Offer smaller, more frequent breast milk or formula feedings.
• Avoid certain liquids: Do not give fruit juices, sugary liquids, teas, and broths.
• Focus on starchy foods: Provide rice, cereal, and crackers, as they are easier to digest and help solidify the stools.
• Consult a healthcare professional: If necessary, use an oral rehydration solution (ORS) and seek medical advice for babies and toddlers.

Note: Loose motions in babies and toddlers may differ from those in adults, so professional guidance is important before trying home remedies. 

When To Consult A Doctor? 

While most cases of loose motion are not harmful and resolve on their own, certain situations warrant contacting a healthcare provider:

1. Signs of dehydration: If you experience excessive thirst, decreased urine output, or dizziness, seek medical attention.
2. Prolonged duration: If loose motion persists for more than two days (in adults) or 24 hours (in children), it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.
3. Severe abdominal or rectal pain: Intense pain in these areas may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.
4. High fever: 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher may indicate a more severe infection; seek professional help immediately.
5. Presence of blood or pus in stools: A healthcare professional must be informed if you witness blood or mucus in stools (dysentery).

Parents or caregivers should promptly seek medical advice for children with loose motion, as infants and newborns are especially vulnerable to its complications.

Loose Motion Prevention

To minimise the occurrence of diarrhoea, follow these preventive tips:

• Ensure proper hand hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after using the toilet and before eating. Handwashing is the most effective way to prevent the transmission of diarrheal infections.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation in bathroom areas, including sinks and toilets, to minimise the spread of germs that can cause loose motion.
• Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before consumption to eliminate potential contaminants.
• Clean kitchen counters and cooking utensils thoroughly after they come into contact with raw meat, particularly poultry, to prevent cross-contamination.
• Promptly refrigerate meats after purchase and cook them until they are no longer pink to eliminate any existing bacteria. Moreover, refrigerate leftovers promptly to inhibit bacterial growth.
• Exercise caution when consuming water from streams, springs, or lakes. Verify with local health authorities if it is safe to drink.

Also Read Proven Tips To Stay Safe From Diarrhoea During Monsoon

To Sum Up

The mentioned home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote faster recovery from loose motion. However, it's crucial to remember that these remedies should be used with medical guidance. If symptoms persist, it is essential to seek professional medical attention.

FAQs

Q. Which food should I avoid during loose motions?

During loose motions, it is recommended to avoid high-fibre foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as spicy, greasy, and fatty foods. These can worsen symptoms and irritate the digestive system, prolonging the condition.

Q. What should I do if my symptoms persist despite trying home remedies?

If your symptoms persist despite trying home remedies, it is advisable to seek medical advice. Persistent loose motions may indicate an underlying condition that requires further evaluation and treatment.

Q. How to prevent dehydration during loose motions?

Sip on fluids like water, herbal teas, clear soups, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) frequently in small amounts to stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages as they can worsen fluid loss.

Q. How can I treat weakness in loose motion?

Consume small, frequent meals consisting of easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, boiled potatoes, and skinless chicken or fish. Ensure you are adequately hydrated by drinking fluids regularly. Resting and conserving energy will also help in overcoming weakness and promoting recovery.

Q. I have a fever along with loose motion. What should I do?

Stay hydrated by drinking fluids and consider taking over-the-counter antipyretics after consulting with a doctor.  If the fever is not reducing even with medicines and the temperature is getting higher, consult the doctor immediately.

Medically reviewed by Dr Sonia Bhatt.