What constitutes a normal bowel movement. How often should you have a bowel movement. What factors influence bowel health. What are the best ways to regulate bowel movements. How can you improve your overall digestive health.

Understanding Normal Bowel Movements: Frequency and Consistency

Bowel movements are a crucial aspect of our overall health, yet they’re often a topic shrouded in mystery and embarrassment. Understanding what constitutes a “normal” bowel movement is the first step towards maintaining optimal digestive health.

The “basic rule of three” is often used in medical circles to describe typical bowel activity. This means that having a bowel movement anywhere between three times a day and three times a week is considered normal. However, it’s important to note that bowel habits can vary significantly from person to person.

Several factors influence the frequency of bowel movements, including:

• Diet
• Age
• Physical activity level
• Hydration status
• Stress levels
• Medical conditions

When it comes to consistency, a healthy bowel movement is typically formed, brown, and soft. If your stools consistently deviate from this description, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare professional.

Are painful bowel movements normal?

Pooping should not be a painful experience. If you frequently experience pain or discomfort during bowel movements, or if you have persistent cramping afterward, it’s essential to consult a doctor. These symptoms could indicate underlying conditions such as:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn’s Disease
• Ulcerative Colitis
• Hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures

The Science Behind Bowel Movements: Understanding Your Digestive System

To truly appreciate the importance of regular bowel movements, it’s crucial to understand the science behind them. Bowel movements are your body’s way of eliminating waste that no longer serves any purpose in your system.

Contrary to what many might think, poop is composed of approximately 75% water. The remaining 25% is a complex mixture of various components:

• Bacteria
• Fats
• Undigested fiber (including nuts and seeds)
• Food wastes
• Mucus
• Salts
• Bilirubin (a brownish-red substance resulting from the breakdown of wastes from the liver and bone marrow)

Bilirubin is responsible for giving stool its characteristic brown color. The composition of your stool can provide valuable insights into your overall health and digestive function.

Why is regular bowel movement essential for health?

Regular bowel movements are crucial for maintaining overall health. They allow your body to eliminate toxins and waste products that, if left to accumulate, could potentially harm your system. When a person doesn’t have regular bowel movements, stool can back up in the intestines, leading to a condition known as constipation.

If constipation persists for an extended period, it can lead to more serious complications such as:

• Fecal impaction
• Bowel obstruction
• Hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures
• Rectal prolapse

Therefore, maintaining regular bowel movements is not just about comfort—it’s a vital aspect of your overall health and wellbeing.

Common Bowel Movement Issues: Constipation and Diarrhea

While occasional changes in bowel habits are normal, persistent issues like constipation or diarrhea can significantly impact your quality of life and may indicate underlying health problems.

What causes constipation and diarrhea?

Both constipation and diarrhea involve issues with the passage of stool, but they represent opposite ends of the spectrum. Constipation refers to infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stool, while diarrhea is characterized by loose or watery stools.

Several factors can trigger these symptoms:

• Diet (e.g., lack of fiber for constipation, or food intolerances for diarrhea)
• Medications (certain pain relievers can cause constipation, while antibiotics may lead to diarrhea)
• Gastrointestinal conditions (such as IBS, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis)
• Stress and anxiety
• Hormonal changes
• Dehydration

At the physiological level, both constipation and diarrhea occur due to changes in intestinal contractions. These contractions, also known as peristalsis, help move stool through the colon. When these muscle contractions are too slow or weak, constipation occurs. Conversely, when they’re too rapid or strong, it results in diarrhea.

How can you manage constipation and diarrhea at home?

For occasional bouts of constipation or diarrhea, several home remedies can provide relief:

For diarrhea:

• Avoid foods known to irritate the stomach (e.g., caffeine, dairy, alcohol)
• Stay hydrated with water or electrolyte-containing beverages
• Gradually increase fiber intake to add bulk to your stool
• Try probiotic foods or supplements to restore gut balance

For constipation:

• Aim for 25 to 31 grams of fiber per day
• Increase physical activity levels
• Stay well-hydrated
• Don’t ignore the urge to go to the bathroom
• Consider using a stool softener or gentle laxative if needed

If these symptoms persist or become your regular stool pattern, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend specific treatments or refer you to a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.

The Role of Diet in Regulating Bowel Movements

Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bowel movements. What you eat directly impacts the frequency, consistency, and ease of your bowel movements.

How does fiber impact bowel health?

Fiber is perhaps the most important dietary component when it comes to bowel health. There are two types of fiber, each playing a unique role:

1. Soluble fiber: This type of fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance in your gut. It helps slow down digestion, which can be beneficial for those with diarrhea.
2. Insoluble fiber: This type doesn’t dissolve in water and adds bulk to your stool, helping to prevent constipation.

A diet rich in both types of fiber can help regulate bowel movements and promote overall digestive health. Good sources of fiber include:

• Fruits (especially berries, apples, and pears)
• Vegetables (particularly leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables)
• Whole grains
• Legumes
• Nuts and seeds

What role does hydration play in bowel health?

Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements. Water helps soften stool and promotes easier passage through the intestines. When you’re dehydrated, your body absorbs more water from your food waste, leading to harder, more difficult-to-pass stools.

Aim to drink at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day, and more if you’re physically active or live in a hot climate. Remember, other fluids like herbal teas and water-rich fruits and vegetables can also contribute to your daily fluid intake.

Lifestyle Factors Affecting Bowel Movements

Beyond diet, several lifestyle factors can significantly impact your bowel health and regularity.

How does physical activity influence bowel movements?

Regular physical activity is a powerful tool for promoting healthy bowel movements. Exercise stimulates the natural contraction of intestinal muscles, helping to move stool through your colon more efficiently. This is why many people find that they need to use the bathroom shortly after exercising.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week. This could include:

• Brisk walking
• Cycling
• Swimming
• Yoga
• Dancing

What impact does stress have on bowel health?

Stress can have a significant impact on your digestive system and bowel movements. The gut-brain connection is well-established, and stress can lead to a variety of digestive issues, including:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea

Managing stress through techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or regular physical activity can help maintain healthy bowel function. If stress is a persistent issue affecting your digestive health, consider speaking with a mental health professional.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Bowel Issues

While occasional changes in bowel habits are normal, certain signs and symptoms warrant medical attention.

What are the red flags for serious bowel problems?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider promptly:

• Blood in your stool
• Persistent abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation that doesn’t respond to home remedies
• Narrow, pencil-thin stools
• Persistent changes in bowel habits
• Fever accompanied by digestive symptoms

These symptoms could indicate more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, or other digestive disorders that require professional medical attention.

How can a gastroenterologist help with persistent bowel issues?

A gastroenterologist is a specialist in digestive health who can provide expert diagnosis and treatment for persistent bowel issues. They may use various diagnostic tools and procedures to identify the root cause of your symptoms, such as:

• Colonoscopy
• Endoscopy
• Stool tests
• Blood tests
• Imaging studies (like CT scans or MRIs)

Based on their findings, they can recommend appropriate treatments, which may include dietary changes, medications, or in some cases, surgical interventions.

Practical Tips for Maintaining Healthy Bowel Movements

Maintaining healthy bowel movements is a combination of good habits and mindful practices. Here are some practical tips to help regulate your bowel movements and improve your overall digestive health:

How can you establish a regular bowel routine?

Establishing a regular bowel routine can help train your body to have more consistent bowel movements. Try these strategies:

• Set aside time each day for a bathroom visit, preferably at the same time
• Don’t ignore the urge to go when you feel it
• Create a relaxing bathroom environment
• Use proper posture on the toilet (a squatting position can help)
• Practice deep breathing or relaxation techniques if you feel stressed or rushed

What dietary changes can promote better bowel health?

In addition to increasing fiber intake and staying hydrated, consider these dietary changes:

• Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut to support gut health
• Reduce consumption of processed foods, which are often low in fiber and high in additives that can disrupt digestion
• Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration
• Experiment with eliminating potential trigger foods (like dairy or gluten) if you suspect food sensitivities

Remember, everyone’s digestive system is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. It may take some trial and error to find the diet and lifestyle habits that best support your bowel health.

By understanding the factors that influence bowel movements and implementing these tips, you can take control of your digestive health and enjoy the benefits of regular, comfortable bowel movements. If you continue to experience persistent issues despite these measures, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice. Your digestive health is an essential component of your overall wellbeing, and it deserves attention and care.

What’s a Normal Bowel Movement? Plus Tips for Better Pooping

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Some habits, including drinking more water, eating fiber, and moving around, may help stimulate regular bowel movements.

There’s a reason to pay attention to how often you poop: Regular bowel movements can be essential for good health.

Let’s go over why that’s so, as well as some tips to help you have better bowel movements, including how to pass hard stools.

As far as how often to have a bowel movement, there isn’t an exact number. Bowel activity varies for each person. However, medicine and science will often use the “basic rule of three” to describe a typical movement, meaning you have bowel activity anywhere between three times a day and three times a week.

You’ll poop more or less each day (or week) depending on a number of factors, such as your:

• diet
• age
• physical activity level

While the appearance and consistency of a person’s poop can vary from person to person, most people’s poop is formed, brown, and soft. If yours is rarely like this (such as always hard or always liquid), you may want to speak with a doctor.

Pooping shouldn’t be painful. If you frequently have bowel movements that are painful to pass or result in cramping after you make them, it’s time to speak with a doctor. You could have a condition like:

• irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn’s disease
• ulcerative colitis

Many people occasionally experience episodes of diarrhea or constipation, where you can’t go to the bathroom easily or very often. You can try some steps to treat them at home.

Constipation and diarrhea both involve concerns with the passage of stool. But while constipation is infrequent bowel activity or difficulty passing stool, diarrhea refers to loose or watery stools. Different factors can trigger either symptom, such as:

• diet
• food intolerances
• medications
• conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract

Regardless of the underlying cause, though, constipation and diarrhea occur when intestinal contractions either speed up or slow down. Gut contractions help move stool through the colon. But sometimes, the muscles contract too much or too little. Diarrhea happens when these muscles contract more than usual, whereas constipation happens when they don’t contract enough.

Tips for incontinence or diarrhea

• Avoid foods known to irritate the stomach and cause loose stools (especially caffeine, dairy, and alcohol).
• Drink plenty of water or electrolyte-containing beverages to stay hydrated.
• Increase your fiber intake to add bulk to your stool.

Tips for constipation

• Try to get at least 25 to 31 grams of fiber per day.
• Increase your physical activity level.
• Always use the bathroom when you get the urge to go — don’t try and hold it.

However, if constipation or diarrhea become your consistent stool pattern, speak with a primary care doctor. They may recommend treatments or refer you to a specialist (called a gastroenterologist) who can perform further testing.

Bowel movements (sometimes called BMs for short) are your body’s way of getting rid of waste that doesn’t have any use in the body. While it may not look like it, poop is about three-fourths water. The remainder is a collection of materials that includes:

• bacteria
• fats
• fiber (undigested foods, including nuts and seeds)
• food wastes
• mucus
• salts

Another poop component is bilirubin, a brownish-red substance that’s the result of a breakdown of wastes from the liver and bone marrow. Bilirubin is what gives poop its usual brown color.

A person has to poop to survive because the body doesn’t have a way of getting rid of these wastes otherwise. If a person doesn’t poop for many days, the stool can back up in the intestines. If this goes on for too long, it starts to pose a risk to your safety and can damage your organs. This is why pooping is so important for your health.

Pooping is part physical, part mental. If you aren’t pooping as easily or often as you’d like, addressing these aspects can help.

Drink water

Water and fiber: These are two major components of poop that are part of your diet. Making efforts to drink more water daily can help make your bowel movements easier to pass.

Eat fruits, nuts, grains, and vegetables

In addition, it’s important to eat foods with plenty of fiber. This adds bulk to your stool, which stimulates the bowels to move and propel your stool forward. Foods that contain fiber include:

• fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, and apples
• nuts and seeds, such as pistachios, almonds, or sunflower seeds
• vegetables, such as broccoli, lima beans, and carrots
• whole-grain breads, such as seven-grain, cracked wheat, or pumpernickel

Add fiber foods slowly

Don’t incorporate too much fiber into your diet at a time — it can have an opposite, constipating effect. Instead, try to add a serving every 5 days to allow your digestive tract time to acclimate itself to the increased fiber.

Cut out irritating foods

In addition to constipation that makes stools harder to pass, some people experience stool that’s too loose. When this is the case, cutting out foods that can irritate the stomach can help. Examples to cut from your diet include:

• alcoholic beverages
• caffeinated drinks, like tea, coffee, and sodas
• fatty foods
• foods that contain sugar alcohols that end in the letters -ol (such as sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol)
• spicy foods

Try cutting out these foods to see if your bowel movements are less watery. You can also keep a food and symptom diary to identify connections between the foods you eat and the symptoms you experience.

Move more

Your intestines have a natural motion that moves stool forward. If your body isn’t moving stool through fast enough, then you can help it out with increased exercise. Physical activity, such as walking, running, or swimming, can all promote motion that helps you poop better. Even short amounts of activity — 10 to 15 minutes — can help.

Change your bathroom posture

Another tip you can try has to do with your posture on the toilet. Changing the angle of your legs changes the angle of your colon. Toilet footstools are one accessory that you can use in the bathroom to do this. Some people find that it helps them have a more comfortable and effective bowel movement. Researchers even studied their use with the help of 52 volunteers.

Even if you don’t have a footstool to raise your feet, you can still try adjusting your posture. While you’re sitting on the toilet, try planting your feet on the ground so that your knees are higher than your seat or higher than usual.

Find bathroom footstools online.

Keep your bowel movements in mind

Doctors have identified a mind-body connection to pooping. For example, many people cringe at the idea of pooping in a public restroom.

Here are some ways to address the connection between your brain and intestines:

• Remember that pooping is a natural part of every person’s physical needs. Everyone poops. You have nothing to be ashamed of if you have to go.
• Try to poop at the same time every day (such as in the morning at home, after you eat breakfast). This can help to train your body to go at the same time in a place where you’re more comfortable.
• Go to the bathroom when you feel the need. Try to not hold it in or put off a bowel movement. If you feel the need to go, take advantage of your body’s readiness.
• Try engaging in stress-relieving activities if your anxiety levels are creeping up and your stomach starts to cramp. Examples include taking deep breaths, doing seated stretches like rolling your shoulders backward and forward, listening to calming music, or repeating a positive mantra.

Stress and pooping are highly connected. Try to create a calming environment in your bathroom where you have privacy. Avoid rushing yourself — give yourself at least 10 minutes to go to the bathroom.

Bowel movements require food, fluids, and calm to create a more comfortable experience. If you try these tips, and your symptoms aren’t getting better, speak with a doctor. There are lots of medicines and approaches that can help you enhance your intestinal health.

What’s a Normal Bowel Movement? Plus Tips for Better Pooping

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Some habits, including drinking more water, eating fiber, and moving around, may help stimulate regular bowel movements.

There’s a reason to pay attention to how often you poop: Regular bowel movements can be essential for good health.

Let’s go over why that’s so, as well as some tips to help you have better bowel movements, including how to pass hard stools.

As far as how often to have a bowel movement, there isn’t an exact number. Bowel activity varies for each person. However, medicine and science will often use the “basic rule of three” to describe a typical movement, meaning you have bowel activity anywhere between three times a day and three times a week.

You’ll poop more or less each day (or week) depending on a number of factors, such as your:

• diet
• age
• physical activity level

While the appearance and consistency of a person’s poop can vary from person to person, most people’s poop is formed, brown, and soft. If yours is rarely like this (such as always hard or always liquid), you may want to speak with a doctor.

Pooping shouldn’t be painful. If you frequently have bowel movements that are painful to pass or result in cramping after you make them, it’s time to speak with a doctor. You could have a condition like:

• irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn’s disease
• ulcerative colitis

Many people occasionally experience episodes of diarrhea or constipation, where you can’t go to the bathroom easily or very often. You can try some steps to treat them at home.

Constipation and diarrhea both involve concerns with the passage of stool. But while constipation is infrequent bowel activity or difficulty passing stool, diarrhea refers to loose or watery stools. Different factors can trigger either symptom, such as:

• diet
• food intolerances
• medications
• conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract

Regardless of the underlying cause, though, constipation and diarrhea occur when intestinal contractions either speed up or slow down. Gut contractions help move stool through the colon. But sometimes, the muscles contract too much or too little. Diarrhea happens when these muscles contract more than usual, whereas constipation happens when they don’t contract enough.

Tips for incontinence or diarrhea

• Avoid foods known to irritate the stomach and cause loose stools (especially caffeine, dairy, and alcohol).
• Drink plenty of water or electrolyte-containing beverages to stay hydrated.
• Increase your fiber intake to add bulk to your stool.

Tips for constipation

• Try to get at least 25 to 31 grams of fiber per day.
• Increase your physical activity level.
• Always use the bathroom when you get the urge to go — don’t try and hold it.

However, if constipation or diarrhea become your consistent stool pattern, speak with a primary care doctor. They may recommend treatments or refer you to a specialist (called a gastroenterologist) who can perform further testing.

Bowel movements (sometimes called BMs for short) are your body’s way of getting rid of waste that doesn’t have any use in the body. While it may not look like it, poop is about three-fourths water. The remainder is a collection of materials that includes:

• bacteria
• fats
• fiber (undigested foods, including nuts and seeds)
• food wastes
• mucus
• salts

Another poop component is bilirubin, a brownish-red substance that’s the result of a breakdown of wastes from the liver and bone marrow. Bilirubin is what gives poop its usual brown color.

A person has to poop to survive because the body doesn’t have a way of getting rid of these wastes otherwise. If a person doesn’t poop for many days, the stool can back up in the intestines. If this goes on for too long, it starts to pose a risk to your safety and can damage your organs. This is why pooping is so important for your health.

Pooping is part physical, part mental. If you aren’t pooping as easily or often as you’d like, addressing these aspects can help.

Drink water

Water and fiber: These are two major components of poop that are part of your diet. Making efforts to drink more water daily can help make your bowel movements easier to pass.

Eat fruits, nuts, grains, and vegetables

In addition, it’s important to eat foods with plenty of fiber. This adds bulk to your stool, which stimulates the bowels to move and propel your stool forward. Foods that contain fiber include:

• fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, and apples
• nuts and seeds, such as pistachios, almonds, or sunflower seeds
• vegetables, such as broccoli, lima beans, and carrots
• whole-grain breads, such as seven-grain, cracked wheat, or pumpernickel

Add fiber foods slowly

Don’t incorporate too much fiber into your diet at a time — it can have an opposite, constipating effect. Instead, try to add a serving every 5 days to allow your digestive tract time to acclimate itself to the increased fiber.

Cut out irritating foods

In addition to constipation that makes stools harder to pass, some people experience stool that’s too loose. When this is the case, cutting out foods that can irritate the stomach can help. Examples to cut from your diet include:

• alcoholic beverages
• caffeinated drinks, like tea, coffee, and sodas
• fatty foods
• foods that contain sugar alcohols that end in the letters -ol (such as sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol)
• spicy foods

Try cutting out these foods to see if your bowel movements are less watery. You can also keep a food and symptom diary to identify connections between the foods you eat and the symptoms you experience.

Move more

Your intestines have a natural motion that moves stool forward. If your body isn’t moving stool through fast enough, then you can help it out with increased exercise. Physical activity, such as walking, running, or swimming, can all promote motion that helps you poop better. Even short amounts of activity — 10 to 15 minutes — can help.

Change your bathroom posture

Another tip you can try has to do with your posture on the toilet. Changing the angle of your legs changes the angle of your colon. Toilet footstools are one accessory that you can use in the bathroom to do this. Some people find that it helps them have a more comfortable and effective bowel movement. Researchers even studied their use with the help of 52 volunteers.

Even if you don’t have a footstool to raise your feet, you can still try adjusting your posture. While you’re sitting on the toilet, try planting your feet on the ground so that your knees are higher than your seat or higher than usual.

Find bathroom footstools online.

Keep your bowel movements in mind

Doctors have identified a mind-body connection to pooping. For example, many people cringe at the idea of pooping in a public restroom.

Here are some ways to address the connection between your brain and intestines:

• Remember that pooping is a natural part of every person’s physical needs. Everyone poops. You have nothing to be ashamed of if you have to go.
• Try to poop at the same time every day (such as in the morning at home, after you eat breakfast). This can help to train your body to go at the same time in a place where you’re more comfortable.
• Go to the bathroom when you feel the need. Try to not hold it in or put off a bowel movement. If you feel the need to go, take advantage of your body’s readiness.
• Try engaging in stress-relieving activities if your anxiety levels are creeping up and your stomach starts to cramp. Examples include taking deep breaths, doing seated stretches like rolling your shoulders backward and forward, listening to calming music, or repeating a positive mantra.

Stress and pooping are highly connected. Try to create a calming environment in your bathroom where you have privacy. Avoid rushing yourself — give yourself at least 10 minutes to go to the bathroom.

Bowel movements require food, fluids, and calm to create a more comfortable experience. If you try these tips, and your symptoms aren’t getting better, speak with a doctor. There are lots of medicines and approaches that can help you enhance your intestinal health.

How to quickly get rid of loose stools: tips and treatment

Contents

• 1 How to quickly and effectively treat loose stools in adults and children?
  • 1.1 Effective tips to get rid of loose stools quickly
    • 1.1.1 Maintain good hygiene
    • 1.1.2 Follow your doctor’s recommendations
    • probiotics
    • 1.1.5 Drink plenty fluids
  • 1.2 Causes and symptoms of loose stools
  • 1.3 Tips for changing your diet
    • 1.3.1 Increase your intake of plant foods
    • 1.3.2 Avoid fatty and heavy foods
    • 1.3.3 Drink more water
  • 1.4 Sim ptomatic treatment of loose stools
    • 1.4.1 Drink more liquids
    • 1.4.2 Take anti-diarrheals
    • 1.4.3 Monitor nutrition
    • 1.4.4 Use re-hydrating solutions
  • 1. 5 When should I see a doctor?
  • 1.6 Diet for recovery after loose stools
    • 1.6.1 What should be excluded from the diet
    • 1.6.2 What can be included in the diet
    • 1.6.3 Nutrition specifics in the first days
  • 1. 7 Prevention of loose stools
  • 1.8 Related videos:
  • 1.9 Q&A:
    • • 1.9.0.1 Which foods can cause loose stools?
      • 1.9.0.2 Which drinks help to get rid of loose stools faster?
      • 1.9.0.3 How is loose stools treated in children?
      • 1.9.0.4 How can loose stools be prevented?
      • 1.9.0.5 What should I do if I have loose stools in pregnant women?
      • 1.9.0.6 What complications can arise from ignoring loose stools?

Loose stools can be a sign of various diseases and conditions of the body. In the article, we will talk about the causes of loose stools and the most effective ways to treat it – from diet to drug therapy.

Diarrhea is a common problem that can cause discomfort and limit daily life. Loose stools are a common symptom of diarrhea and may be accompanied by abdominal pain, fatigue, and general weakness. Diarrhea usually resolves on its own and does not require serious treatment, but sometimes it can lead to dehydration, which is a serious complication.

It is important to understand that loose stools can be caused by a number of things, including infections, poor diet, stress, and antibiotics. Loose stools can often be treated with home remedies, such as changing diet and drinking patterns, but sometimes medical intervention may be required.

In this article, we’ll look at some of the most effective tips for treating loose stools and provide helpful tips to help you get rid of this annoying problem quickly.

Effective tips to get rid of loose stools quickly

Maintain hygiene

Be sure to wash your hands with soap and water before every meal. Remember to thoroughly wash vegetables and fruits before eating. Avoid harming yourself and others, all sorts of infections can lead to loose stools.

Follow your doctor’s advice

If you suspect a gastrointestinal complication, be sure to contact your healthcare professional. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help you get rid of loose stools.

Do not give up on proper nutrition

Do not completely give up food that contains proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Pay attention to foods containing fiber, it will help slow down the process of splitting food in the stomach and avoid loose stools.

Eat Probiotics

Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that help boost your immune system and restore normal bowel function. Be sure to consult with a specialist so that he selects the most suitable drug.

Drink plenty of fluids

Loose stools can be caused by dehydration. Drink plenty of water, homemade smoothies, and natural juices, which will give you back your essential micronutrients and fiber and increase your body’s fluid levels.

Causes and symptoms of loose stools

Loose stools are stools that are more liquid than usual. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including digestive problems, infections, allergies, stress, and certain medical conditions. One of the main symptoms of loose stools is an increased frequency of anal passages. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, short-term improvement after a bowel movement, nausea, and vomiting.

One of the main causes of loose stools is infectious diarrhea, which is caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites. This may be due to consumption of contaminated food or water, contact with an infected person or exotic animals. Other causes may be related to lactose intolerance, celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and certain medications.

• Infectious diarrhea is the cause of loose stools that develops as a result of infection by bacteria, viruses or parasites.
• Lactose intolerance is a condition in which the body is unable to digest milk sugar, resulting in loose stools, gas and bloating.
• Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease in which the body reacts to the gluten found in wheat, rye and barley, causing intestinal damage and loose stools.
• Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic disease characterized by painful abdominal symptoms, diarrhoea, constipation and loose stools.
• Certain medications – may cause loose stools, including antibiotics and arthritis medications.

The symptoms of loose stools can be unpleasant but are usually not serious. However, if abdominal pain or other symptoms become more intense, you should immediately contact your doctor for further evaluation and treatment.

Tips for changing your diet

Increase your intake of plant foods

With loose stools, it is very important to increase the amount of plant foods in the diet. Vegetables and fruits contain a large amount of nutrients and fibers that help to normalize the digestive tract and strengthen the intestinal walls.

1. Eat fresh vegetables and fruits every day
2. Enrich your diet with green vegetables and herbs
3. Include high fiber vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, kale and pumpkin

Avoid fatty and heavy foods

Fatty, spicy and heavy foods are not recommended during loose stools. Hot peppers, mayonnaise, fried foods, and sweets can aggravate the bowel and cause recurrent diarrhea.

• Avoid fatty and fried foods
• Limit sweets and buns
• Avoid spicy and hot spices

Drink plenty of water

Drinking plenty of fluids helps flush out toxins and bacteria and from the body, and also improves metabolic processes and work GIT. Limit your intake of alcohol and carbonated drinks significantly, as they can irritate the intestines and worsen your health.

• Drink plenty of pure water
• Avoid alcoholic and carbonated drinks
• Chicken or beef broth can help rehydrate the body

Symptomatic treatment of loose stools

Drink more fluids 9009 5

One of the main symptoms of loose stools is diarrhea, as a result of which the body loses a large amount of water. To prevent dehydration, you need to drink more fluids, especially water.

• It is recommended to drink 2-3 glasses of water every hour;
• You can also drink weak teas, boiling water, or drink mixtures that contain electrolytes, such as sports drinks or electrolyte solutions.

Take antidiarrheal drugs

Antidiarrheal drugs help reduce the amount of stool and reduce the frequency of diarrhea. The most effective are drugs based on loperamide, such as Imodium.

Watch your diet

Proper nutrition plays an important role in the treatment of loose stools. Some foods can make diarrhea worse, while others can help reduce it and improve bowel health.

• Avoid foods that can worsen diarrhea such as dairy products, fast food, spicy and fatty foods;
• Increase your intake of soluble fiber foods such as bananas, dried apricots, pears and carrots;
• Drink fermented milk products, such as yogurt or kefir, which contain good gut bacteria.

Use re-hydrating solutions

With diarrhea, the body loses a lot of fluids and electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and chloride. Therefore, it is very important to replace them regularly to prevent dehydration.

• Re-hydrating solutions contain electrolytes necessary for balancing;
• You can buy them at the pharmacy or make your own by mixing sugar and salt with water.

When should I see a doctor?

If loose stools persist and last longer than one day, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. In cases where before the occurrence of liquid stools there was contact with the patient or eating unverified foods, you should immediately consult a doctor to rule out infectious diseases.

Also see a doctor if loose stools are accompanied by vomiting, fever, bloody discharge or abdominal pain. This may indicate serious conditions such as gastroenteritis, peptic ulcers, colitis, or even a tumor.

• Diarrhea in newborns and children under 5 requires a mandatory visit to the pediatrician.
• In case of pregnancy, loose stools can be a symptom of toxicosis, so you should consult a doctor for treatment.
• People suffering from chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract should also consult a doctor for advice and treatment.

Do not self-medicate with prolonged loose stools, as incorrectly selected medicines can only worsen the condition. It is better to consult a doctor and follow his recommendations.

Diet to recover from loose stools

What to avoid from the diet

During the recovery period after loose stools, it is necessary to exclude from the diet foods that can worsen the condition of the intestines and cause an imbalance of microflora. These products include:

• sweets: sweets, chocolates, cakes, etc.;
• fast food: burgers, hot dogs, fries, hamburgers, etc.;
• semi-finished products;
• carbonated drinks;
• salted and fried foods;
• hot sauces and spices.

What can be included in the diet

To speed up the recovery process of the intestines, it is necessary to include easily digestible and nutritious foods in the diet:

• kefir and yogurt without additives;
• watery liquid porridges: oatmeal, rice and oatmeal;
• protein products: chicken, turkey, fish;
• vegetables and fruits: bananas, apples, peaches, carrots, pumpkins, marrows.

Nutrition specifics in the first days

In the first days after loose stools, a diet consisting of easily digestible foods such as yoghurts and cereals with water should be followed. In the absence of vomiting, you can drink weak tea, chamomile decoction, mint tea, carbonated mineral water without gas. You can also include proteins in the form of chicken or fish in the diet. Soon after the onset of improvement, you can gradually add new foods to the diet. During the recovery period, it is very important to provide your body with enough water to prevent dehydration.

Prevention of loose stools

Loose stools can occur for many reasons, so prevention should be multifaceted and related to hygiene, diet and lifestyle.

• Maintain good hygiene: Wash hands before eating and after going to the toilet, using separate towels and utensils.
• Avoid contaminated foods: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating, do not purchase moldy or rancid foods.
• Watch your diet: A healthy diet helps to boost the immune system and maintain a healthy gut. Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat protein foods.
• Drink plenty of water: liquid helps to eliminate toxins and constantly renew the contents of the intestine.
• Instill discipline in eating time: regular meals on a schedule will help ease digestive difficulties and achieve a normal exchange of fluids in the body.

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Q&A:

Which foods can cause loose stools?

Loose stools can be caused by eating uncooked fish, raw chicken liver, cheeses, fatty meats and dairy products, and foods containing gluten.

Which drinks help to get rid of loose stools faster?

It is advisable to drink plenty of water, chamomile tea, mint tea, and tinctures of ginger and cinnamon. You should not consume sour-milk drinks, carbonated drinks and alcohol.

How is loose stools treated in children?

Treat loose stools in children with water, electrolyte balance, probiotics, and drugs that reduce gastric and intestinal secretions. For infants, it is possible to use special solutions of glucose and salts.

How can loose stools be prevented?

It is important to maintain proper nutrition, avoid raw and fried foods, hygienic care of hands and utensils, and taking probiotics to maintain a healthy intestinal microflora.

What to do if pregnant women have loose stools?

If loose stools occur in pregnant women, seek medical attention and do not self-medicate. It is important to drink plenty of fluids and follow your doctor’s recommendations for the treatment and prevention of loose stools.

What complications can occur if loose stools are ignored?

Ignoring loose stools can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, anemia and other serious illnesses. In case of recurring liquid stools, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Constipation in children with cancer

What is constipation?

Constipation is a condition in which stools (feces) are hard, difficult to pass, or move too slowly through the digestive tract. Bowel movements become less regular, and pain, loss of appetite, hemorrhoids, and tears or cracks in the skin may also occur.

Constipation is a common side effect of cancer and its treatment. It can cause discomfort, interfere with daily life and reduce its quality. Severe constipation can lead to fecal impaction, a condition in which hard stool becomes lodged in the colon or rectum. In addition, hard stools can cause tears and cracks around the anus. These tears are called anal fissures. In children with cancer and weakened immune systems, these skin tears can lead to a serious infection.

Children, especially teenagers, are often reluctant to talk about such topics. But constipation is treatable. Adjusting your diet, drinking enough fluids, and being physically active can help. Your doctor may also recommend certain medications to relieve constipation.

Symptoms of constipation in children

• Hard, dry, lumpy stools
• Stool larger than usual or consisting of small lumps
• Child defecates less than usual
• Tension or inability to pass stool
• The child sits in the toilet for a long time
• Abdominal pain
• Feeling of incomplete bowel movements
• Abdominal distention or feeling of fullness in the intestines, feeling of bloating in the abdomen
• Loss of appetite
• Small amount of blood on toilet paper after wiping
• Traces of stool or particles on underwear
• Irritability, crying, toilet avoidance

Diagnosis of constipation

The intestines of each person work with their own characteristics. However, on average, a bowel movement happens at least 3 times a week.

Diagnosis of constipation is based on the following factors:

• Frequency of bowel movements (twice a week or less)
• Appearance of stool (hard, dry, lumpy or large diameter)
• Effort with which the patient defecates (pain or difficulty in defecation)

Diagnosis of constipation includes:

• Medical history and bowel habits
• Abdominal palpation
• Anal examination
• Blood and stool testing in the laboratory
• Tests for reflexes and muscle activity
• Imaging studies

Causes of constipation in children with cancer

As food moves through the digestive tract, water and nutrients are absorbed from the food. Waste products pass through the large intestine and rectum and are excreted in the form of feces (stool). Sometimes the digestive system slows down and the stool takes too long to move through the intestines. Due to this, more water is absorbed and the stool becomes hard and dry.

Cancer treatment is associated with several factors that lead to constipation. These include:

• Low fiber diet
• Eating less food than usual
• Low fluid intake or dehydration
• Lack of physical activity
• Pressure of the tumor on the stomach or intestines
• Medicines for pain or nausea
• Certain chemotherapy drugs
• Other diseases such as diabetes, hypothyroidism or celiac disease

Constipating drugs

Constipation is a common side effect of some medications. In children with cancer, drug-induced constipation is most often associated with the use of painkillers and antiemetics. Constipation is also a side effect of chemotherapy drugs such as vincristine and vinblastine. In addition, constipation may occur in children who take iron supplements for anemia.

Types of drugs that most commonly cause constipation:

• Pain relievers, including opioids and NSAIDs
• Antiemetics
• Antacids
• Diuretics
• Allergy preparations, including antihistamines
• Antidepressants
• Dietary supplements with iron

Why do opioids cause constipation?

Opioids are often prescribed for childhood cancer pain relief. Drugs in this group include, for example, codeine, fentanyl, hydrocodone, methadone, morphine and oxycodone. Constipation while taking opioids can occur for several reasons:

1. Opioids can slow down intestinal motility. As a result, the rate of passage of waste through the digestive system is reduced.
2. Opioids may reduce the amount of fluid in the intestines. Because of this, the stool becomes dry and hard.
3. Opioids may decrease muscle tone and weaken the reflexes that control bowel movements. This makes it difficult to pass stool.

Because constipation is a common side effect of opioid medications, if your child is given opioids, the doctor may recommend using a laxative to prevent constipation.

Methods for treating constipation

There are various ways to prevent and treat constipation in children with cancer. It is important that the patient’s family and medical staff work together to manage the child’s symptoms. Generally, mild constipation is initially treated by adjusting diet and other habits (eg, drinking more fluids and being more physically active). The next step is usually medication that increases intestinal motility.

Medicines for constipation

Medicines for constipation are often referred to as laxatives. Laxatives work in different ways: some soften the stool, while others stimulate intestinal motility.

• Stool softener laxatives (docusate) increase the water and fat content of the stool, making it softer.
• Osmotic laxatives (Miralax®, lactulose) increase fluid content in the gastrointestinal tract and reduce symptoms of constipation.
• Stimulant laxatives (sennoside, bisacodyl) increase the contraction of the muscles that line the intestines, which helps the stool pass through the digestive tract.

Osmotic laxatives/stool softeners	Stimulant laxatives	Combination drugs
Polyethylene glycol 3350 (MiraLax®)	Sennoside (Ex-Lax®, Senexon®, Senokot®)	Sennoside + Docusate (Correctol 50 Plus®, Ex-Lax Gentle Strength®, Peri-Colace®, Senokot S®)
Docusate (Colace®, Pedia-Lax®)	Bisacodyl (Correctol®, Dulcolax®)
Note: Always read the ingredients on the laxative label. Many popular trade names have different formulations that work in different ways. Trade names are given as an example only.

Medicines for constipation are often taken by mouth. Sometimes laxatives are given as a suppository (anal suppository) or an enema, but these drugs should only be used as directed by a doctor.

Many laxatives are available without a prescription. However, it is extremely important to consult your doctor before using a laxative. When used incorrectly, laxatives can cause nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and dehydration.

If constipation is caused by opioids, methylnaltrexone (Relistor®) may be used to treat it. The doctor may also decide to make changes to the pain relief plan.

Dietary changes to help fight constipation

Nausea, loss of appetite and increased fatigue may prevent the patient from eating enough high-calorie and high-fiber foods. Diet changes will help relieve constipation:

• Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Eat regularly.
• Start the day with a warm drink or warm oatmeal for breakfast. Warm food can stimulate the digestive tract.

Find out more about how to reduce side effects through proper nutrition.

1. Sometimes severe constipation leads to fecal blockage. In this case, the stool hardens and forms a solid mass that gets stuck in the rectum. It becomes impossible to defecate. This condition is treated with an enema, due to which the liquid enters directly into the rectum and colon. In addition, the healthcare provider may need to insert a gloved finger into the patient’s anus to break up hardened stools and remove them.

2. Intestinal obstruction occurs when there is a lack of normal intestinal motility and, as a result, its blockage. Sometimes this happens after abdominal surgery. This condition is called postoperative ileus. Treatment of bowel obstruction includes fluid therapy, the exclusion of drugs that contribute to constipation, as well as treatment of the cause of this condition.

   Gastrointestinal decompression may be used to remove air, fluids, and other GI contents, reduce pressure, and ease vomiting. Often, a nasogastric tube is inserted for this, passing it through the nose and placing it in the stomach.

3. Children with chronic constipation may complain of pain, itching and discomfort due to skin irritation, hemorrhoids or anal fissures. Any cut, tear, or other break in the integrity of the skin around the anus can lead to infection. Tell your doctor about any skin problems your child has. This is especially important for immunocompromised children, as they are at risk of serious infection from such damage.

Recommendations for prevention and treatment:

• Avoid stress, do not sit in the toilet for a long time.
• Wipe gently but clean. You can use wet toilet paper or special fragrance-free wet wipes.
• Take a warm bath or apply a warm towel to the affected area.
• Use the cream recommended by your doctor or pharmacist.

Constipation in children with cancer: recommendations for families

• Tell your child in advance about constipation and other common side effects. Let the child learn more about his body, taking into account the age, speak honestly and openly.
• Tell your child what hemorrhoids and anal fissures are.