Chronic diarrhea is a condition which refers to loose stools or bowel movements that last at least for four weeks. The term chronic refers to anything that lasts for a prolonged period and hence, diarrhea which is persistent qualifies as a chronic condition. This condition should not be taken lightly as it can have a substantial impact on the quality of your lifestyle, also gradually affecting your overall health. Chronic diarrhea is an even bigger concern since the condition will potentially lead to dehydration and other health complications.

The more known causes of chronic diarrhea include IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome) which causes stomach cramps and changes in your bowel movements which is the cause of an infection. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis also affect the digestive system, thus leading to symptoms like chronic diarrhea. Intestinal infections which were the result of eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water is also a major cause of chronic diarrhea.

Hyperthyroidism and diabetes have also known to cause chronic diarrhea and weight loss over a period of time. Thyroid problems are linked to endocrine disorders, which results in an overactive thyroid and thus leading to other chronic symptoms. Food allergies mainly with products which are high in gluten have been known to be one of the causes of chronic diarrhea. Patients who are also suffering from lactose intolerance also have a high chance of having an allergic reaction which will ultimately lead to chronic diarrhea.

Once we have managed to understand the causes of chronic diarrhea, it is imperative that solutions be implemented with immediate effect. Delays will lead to significant complications which is why medical care is advised. However, prescription medications and over the counter (OTC) drugs are not always the solution when it comes to a treatment for chronic diarrhea. There are simple home, natural and organic remedies to deal with the condition and find a solution for its developing symptoms.

Here are some of the easy to implement home remedies to control and get relief from chronic diarrhea:

• Eat healthy: The first and foremost step to be implemented when it comes to diarrhea, is eating healthy. A well-balanced diet, rich in all the essential nutrients and vitamins required for our body to function normally coupled with restraint on your part to avoid certain foods is the way to go. A simple logic being, more the daily intake, more is the food processed by the digestive system which over time gets worn out thus leading to complications. Which is why it is essential to moderate consumption. Foods that are rich in fiber will help aid digestion and promote healthy bowel movements, thus reducing the risk of constipation or infections which might lead to chronic diarrhea conditions. Increase the intake of healthy fruits and vegetables also rich in fiber, avoid foods like dairy-based products, processed foods rich in fats and oil, sugar and artificial sweeteners, carbonated drinks, alcohol among others.
• Staying hydrated: Dehydration is one of the main symptoms of diarrhea and the condition worsens when it comes to chronic diarrhea. Since water is lost in stool and uncontrollable bowel movements, you have to drink plenty of water to keep the supply replenished. Herbal tea is a good option to stay healthy and at the same time help soothe your stomach owing to discomforts of chronic diarrhea. Incorporating ginger, peppermint, oat bark, or even fennel seeds in the tea mixture will keep you hydrated. Coconut water, fruit juices, vegetable juices are a healthier and tastier option along with drinking the requisite amount of water to keep the levels balanced.
• Natural supplements: Supplements which are not necessarily prescription medications are available in the market to help keep the digestive tract and system healthy. Probiotics which are the good bacteria to balance the bacteria levels in your gut which fight infections leading to conditions like chronic diarrhea. Products like digestive enzymes help in absorbing the much-needed nutrients to maintain healthy bodily functions which mainly include bowel movements. Aloe Vera is another option and a very versatile ingredient which can be incorporated into a number of recipes. Aloe Vera juice especially helps in healing of the lining of your digestive system, which might have been damaged due to an infection.
• Rest: In many cases, it is recommended that having a well-balanced diet and healthy active lifestyle will help immensely to curb ailments. However, in case of chronic diarrhea, physical exercise and any type of strenuous activity is prohibited since the body is already weak from the persistent condition. Plenty of rest is recommended by medical professionals to recover from the symptoms of chronic diarrhea. Sleep for at least 8 hours a day, which is considered as the natural cycle for your body to recover from the day’s activities.

Diarrhea symptoms are not that difficult to identify, which is why immediate medical attention is advised to ensure the condition does not get chronic over time.