As a nutritionist, I often hear people talk about loose motions, especially in hot weather or after trying new food.
It is very common and can happen to anyone.
Loose motions (diarrhea) make a person feel weak, tired, and dehydrated. It also causes stomach pain, cramps, and discomfort.
Many people ask me, “How can I stop loose motions fast? What should I eat? Are there simple home remedies?” The good news is that natural remedies can help!
You don’t always need medicine for mild cases.
In this article, I will explain why loose motions happen, their symptoms, and 10 easy home remedies to feel better fast.
Why Do Loose Motions Happen?
Loose motions happen when the stomach and intestines are not working properly. Some common reasons include:
- Food Poisoning – Eating spoiled or dirty food can cause stomach infections.
- Infections – Viruses and bacteria from unclean food or water can cause loose motions.
- Spicy or Oily Food – Some people cannot digest very spicy or fried foods well.
- Lactose Intolerance – Some people have trouble digesting milk or dairy products.
- Stress and Anxiety – Worrying too much can affect digestion and cause loose motions.
- Medicines – Some antibiotics or other medicines can upset the stomach.
Symptoms of Loose Motions
When someone has loose motions, they may feel:
- Frequent watery stools
- Stomach pain and cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dehydration and weakness
- Fever (if caused by infection)
Since the body loses a lot of water, it is important to stay hydrated and eat the right foods.
10 Easy Home Remedies to Stop Loose Motions
If loose motions are mild, they can be managed at home with simple remedies. Here are 10 effective ways to feel better quickly:
1. Drink Plenty of Fluids
Loose motions cause water loss, so it is very important to drink fluids to stay hydrated.
- Plain water – Sip small amounts often.
- Coconut water – Helps replace lost minerals.
- ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) – Mix one teaspoon sugar + a pinch of salt in a glass of water.
- Rice water – Boil rice in extra water, strain it, and drink the water.
Tip: Avoid tea, coffee, and sugary drinks as they can make diarrhea worse.
2. Eat the BRAT Diet
The BRAT diet is easy on the stomach and helps control loose motions.
- B – Bananas – Give energy and replace lost nutrients.
- R – Rice – Helps firm up stools.
- A – Applesauce – Soothes digestion.
- T – Toast – Light and easy to digest.
Tip: Eat small amounts and avoid heavy meals.
3. Drink Ginger Tea
Ginger helps with stomach pain, cramps, and nausea.
How to Make Ginger Tea:
- Take a small piece of ginger, slice it, and boil it in water for 10 minutes.
- Strain and drink it warm.
- Add honey for a better taste.
Tip: Drink twice a day to feel better.
4. Eat Yogurt
Yogurt contains good bacteria (probiotics) that help digestion and fight infections.
How to Use: Eat plain yogurt once or twice a day. Avoid sweet yogurts, as sugar can make diarrhea worse.
5. Try Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea helps with the following:
- Stomach pain and cramps
- Bloating and gas
- Relaxing the stomach
How to Make:
- Steep chamomile tea bag or dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5 minutes.
- Drink twice a day for relief.
6. Use Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar kills harmful bacteria in the stomach and improves digestion.
How to Use:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in warm water.
- Drink once a day before meals.
Tip: Always dilute apple cider vinegar before drinking.
7. Drink Lemon Water
Lemon is good for digestion and helps firm up stools.
How to Use:
- Squeeze half a lemon in a glass of warm water.
- Drink twice a day.
8. Use Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds help absorb water and stop loose motions.
How to Use:
- Soak one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight.
- Drink the water in the morning.
9. Use Cinnamon
Cinnamon has natural antibacterial properties and helps stop diarrhea.
How to Use:
- Boil a small cinnamon stick in a cup of water.
- Strain and drink once a day.
10. Rest and Relax
Sometimes, loose motions happen due to stress. Resting helps the body heal faster.
- Take deep breaths to relax.
- Avoid stress and rest well.
- Sleep properly to help the body recover.
When to Visit a Doctor?
Most loose motions go away in 1-2 days, but sometimes you need a doctor.
See a doctor if:
- Loose motions last more than 2 days.
- You feel very weak and dizzy.
- There is blood in the stool.
- You have a high fever.
Final Thoughts
As a nutritionist, I always tell my clients that simple home remedies can help mild loose motions.
Drinking fluids, eating light foods, and using natural remedies like ginger, yogurt, and chamomile tea can help stop loose motions fast.
If symptoms do not improve, visit a doctor to make sure there is no serious infection. Take care of your stomach, and stay healthy! 😊
FAQs
How can I stop loose motions fast?
Drink ORS, eat the BRAT diet, and try ginger tea or yogurt.
What is the best drink for loose motions?
Drink water, coconut water, ORS, and chamomile tea.
What are the common signs of loose motions?
Loose, watery stools, stomach pain, nausea, and weakness.
When should I see a doctor?
If loose motions last more than 2 days or if you have severe pain, fever, or dehydration.
Can stress cause loose motions?
Yes! Stress affects digestion and can lead to diarrhea. Try to relax and rest.