Is sugarcane juice good for loose motion? - #12678
So, I was having a conversation with my cousin about stomach issues, and he told me that drinking sugarcane juice can actually help with loose motion. I was surprised because I always thought sugarcane juice was more of a refreshing drink, not something for digestion problems. But then he said that in Ayurveda, it’s supposed to balance the stomach and restore hydration when you have an upset stomach. I’ve been dealing with loose motion on and off for the past couple of days – nothing too severe, but enough to make me feel weak and drained. I tried the usual things: bananas, curd, and ORS, but I still feel dehydrated. I was thinking of drinking sugarcane juice, but I’m not sure if it will make things better or worse. I read online that sugarcane juice is cooling, which could help if the loose motion is caused by heat in the body. But then, isn’t it also kind of heavy and sugary? Wouldn’t that make the digestion problem worse? Some people say it’s great for digestion, while others say it can cause bloating. What’s the truth? Has anyone actually used sugarcane juice for loose motion? If so, how did it help? Should I drink it fresh or mix it with something like lemon or black salt? Also, is there any Ayurvedic guideline about when NOT to drink sugarcane juice, like during certain stomach infections?
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Sugarcane juice is actually quite beneficial in Ayurveda, particularly for digestive issues, and can help with loose motions in some cases. It’s known for its cooling properties, which can be helpful when the loose motion is caused by excess heat or pitta dosha imbalance. It is also hydrating, which is essential when you’re dealing with dehydration from diarrhea.
How Sugarcane Juice Helps with Loose Motion: Hydration: The juice is rich in natural sugars and water, which helps replenish lost fluids and restore hydration. Cooling Effect: It balances heat in the body, so if your loose motion is related to a pitta imbalance (which is common in hot weather or after consuming spicy foods), sugarcane juice can help cool down the digestive system. Digestive Health: It is considered digestive in Ayurveda because it helps promote a healthy gut environment, aiding in the proper function of the intestines. The natural enzymes in sugarcane juice can assist in digestion, making it useful for digestive distress. Considerations: Heavy and Sugary: Since sugarcane juice is naturally sweet, it may feel a little heavy on the stomach if consumed in excess or if your digestion is particularly weak. However, it is generally well-tolerated in moderate amounts. Not for All Cases: If the loose motion is caused by an infection or by excess kapha (e.g., a cold-related digestive issue), sugarcane juice may not be the best option as it can increase mucus production or aggravate bloating in some people. In such cases, it might be better to stick with milder, cooling drinks like coconut water. How to Consume Sugarcane Juice for Loose Motion: Fresh and Natural: Fresh, unprocessed sugarcane juice (without added sugar) is best for rehydrating and supporting digestion. With Lemon and Black Salt: To enhance its effect, you can add a pinch of black salt or a small amount of lemon to the sugarcane juice. Black salt aids in digestion and has soothing properties for the stomach, while lemon adds vitamin C and can help balance the sweetness and aid digestion. When Not to Drink Sugarcane Juice: During Acute Infections: If you suspect the loose motions are due to a bacterial infection (like food poisoning or stomach flu), sugarcane juice may not be effective because it might not address the infection and could even exacerbate the issue due to its sugar content. In Excessive Pitta Imbalance: If you have a high pitta condition and the loose motions are linked to this (such as fever, burning sensations, or acidity), too much sugarcane juice might not be ideal due to its sweet and heavy nature. In such cases, coconut water or buttermilk might be a better option. What Worked for Others: Many people use sugarcane juice as a part of an Ayurvedic regimen to address digestive issues and loose motion, especially when caused by heat in the body or dehydration. The natural sugars help restore energy, and the juice’s cooling effect can alleviate the irritation in the digestive system.
If you’re feeling weak or dehydrated, you could try drinking a small glass of fresh sugarcane juice, mixed with black salt and lemon, to see if it helps. Make sure you drink it fresh, as processed versions may contain added sugars and preservatives, which could further upset your stomach.
In conclusion: Sugarcane juice can be a great natural remedy for hydration and cooling the body, but it should be used carefully. If your loose motion is due to a digestive imbalance rather than an infection, it can help restore energy and balance. If you’re uncertain, starting with a small amount will help you gauge how your body reacts.
Sugarcane juice is naturally cooling, hydrating, and rich in electrolytes, making it beneficial in mild cases of loose motion caused by excess heat (Pitta imbalance) or dehydration. It helps restore energy, balances stomach acidity, and supports digestion when taken fresh. However, if loose motion is due to an infection or weak digestion (Mandagni), sugarcane juice might worsen bloating or fermentation in the gut. To enhance its digestive benefits, you can add a pinch of black salt and a few drops of lemon. Avoid drinking it if you have excessive mucus, a fever, or signs of Ama (toxins), such as a coated tongue and foul-smelling stools. If symptoms persist, focus on light, easily digestible foods like moong dal khichdi and pomegranate juice.
Your cousin has touched on something quite interesting. Sugarcane juice does have some Ayurvedic benefits that could be useful in your situation. First off, sugarcane juice is a naturally hydrating liquid that can help relieve dehydration, a common issue with loose motion. It’s packed with electrolytes and minerals that help replenish lost fluids, so that might explain why it’s often recommended for stomach issues.
Now, in terms of Ayurvedic perspective, sugarcane juice is indeed a cooling beverage which can help in cases where loose motions are caused by excess heat or Pitta imbalance. If your loose motion stems from such a heat-related imbalance, sugarcane juice might offer some relief. However, considering it’s a bit sugary and heavy, it’s better to take it cautiously. If you think your digestion’s already compromised or agni (digestive fire) is weak, consuming a lot of heavy or sugary things might backfire, you know? It could indeed cause bloating or make digestion sluggish.
Now as for adding lemon or black salt — that’s a good thought. Lemon could enhance its digestive properties without making it overly acidic. The ascorbic acid in lemon can help digestion a bit. Black salt, on the other hand, adds a bit of warmth to balance the cooling nature of sugarcane and it’s known to aid digestion too. You might try a small amount and watch how your body reacts. And always drink it fresh, it’s the best way.
Just a note of caution though, if there is any kind of bacterial or serious infection causing your issues, sugarcane might not be the solution. In those cases, sucrose-heavy liquids could feed the bacteria. If the situation doesn’t improve, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any severe infection that requires immediate attention or treatment.
Overall, moderation is key. Try a modest amount, maybe 100 to 150 ml with a dash of lemon and black salt, and see if it helps without causing discomfort. Listen to your body’s cues — very important!

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