what to eat in loose motion - #35882
I am dealing with a pretty annoying situation here. Last week, I ate something iffy — maybe it was expired yogurt, I don’t know — and now I’ve had loose motions for about 4 days straight. It’s sooo frustrating! I feel all drained and just want to get back to normal. A friend mentioned eating bland things can help, but I’m confused about what to eat in loose motion. Should I stick to just rice and bananas, or is there more I can add? I tried some boiled potatoes, but they didn’t seem to help much. I did some reading online and found suggestions like toast and applesauce, but I worry about how those will affect me. I saw some ayurvedic advice about avoiding spicy food and dairy, and it's hard to remember everything! When I do eat something, I just feel my stomach churning, and it’s like I can’t tell if it’s making it better or worse. Can you guys give me a clearer idea of what to eat in loose motion or what home remedies might work? I want to feel better quickly, but I’m scared to try new foods until I know! Thanks for any tips!
Doctor-recommended remedies for this condition

Doctors' responses
When dealing with loose motions, selections from Ayurveda can be very effective in calming your system. First off, it’s crucial to give your digestive fire, or agni, some time to regain balance by eating light and easy-to-digest foods. Here’s a straightforward plan:
Begin with simple, easily digestible dishes. Rice is a good start; it’s light and soothing to the gut. You can cook it with extra water to make it porridge-like, which helps with rehydration. Pair it with moong dal — this is gentle, nourishing, and supportive for vata dosha which might be aggravated during diarrhea. Season lightly with cumin and a pinch of salt, these spices help in digestion without irritation.
Another helpful food is bananas, they are rich in potassium which you’re likely losing. Ripe bananas are easy on your system, eating them alone or with little honey can provide much needed energy.
Vomitting and loose stools deplete fluids, sip on water boiled with cumin seeds multiple times a day. This acts as an anti-spasmodic, calming interstinal muscles.
What about buttermilk? This is another worthwhile addition. It helps balance, pitta dosha, restoring digestive heat without taxing the agni.
Don’t overdo it on toast and applesauce, it might sound tempting but too much fiber can irritate your system. Focus on the above-mentioned foods and allow your digestive system to rest and recover before gradually reintroducing other flavors.
Avoid spicy, oily or dairy foods apart from buttermilk until your symptoms subside. Additionally stay away from cold foods and beverages, sticking with room temperature or warm items boosts digestion.
Lastly, if symptoms persists or worsen, don’t delay but seek medical attention promptly as chronic diarrhea may require more serious intervention.
For you’re dealing with loose motions, it’s important to focus on balancing vata and ensuring your agni, or digestive fire, is stable. In Siddha-Ayurvedic practices, we are cautious to avoid food items that could further disrupt digestion or cause irritation. Here are some suggestions that you may find useful:
1. Steamed Rice and Mung Dal: A mixture called kitchari, made by cooking together rice and yellow mung dal, is gentle and nourishing. It’s low in fiber and easy for the body to process, which is ideal during loose motions. Ensure it’s well-cooked and slightly mushy.
2. Bananas: They are generally beneficial due to their ability to bind the stool. Make sure to choose ripe bananas. The high potassium content also helps replenish electrolytes, which your body loses during diarrhea.
3. Plain Buttermilk: A traditional favourite in Ayurveda, buttermilk with a pinch of roasted cumin powder can be soothing. The probiotics can help restore gut flora, though you may want to avoid if dairy seems to worsen symptoms.
4. Pomegranate Juice: Small quantities of fresh pomegranate juice could be helpful due to its astringent properties, which can reduce the frequency of loose stools.
5. Fenugreek Seeds: Soak a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and consume them on an empty stomach. They have natural mucilage which soothes irritated intestines and improves digestion.
6. Cumin Water: Boil some cumin seeds in water, strain and drink the decoction. This can help reduce bloating and aid proper digestion.
It’s a good idea to avoid spicy foods, oily preparations, and heavy-to-digest items like meat until you feel settled. Stay hydrated with water or herbal teas like ginger or chamomile. Also, if symptoms persist beyond a week or intensify, it’s crucial to see a healthcare professional. Chronic diarrhea could indicate underlying issues that demand attention, so prioritize your well-being and don’t hesitate to seek immediate assistance if necessary.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.
