In severe cases of diarrhea, it is advisable to observe a complete fast for two days to give rest to the gastro-intestinal tract. Warm water only may be taken during the period to compensate for the loss of fluids. An enema with water temperature of 95 o F, may be taken daily during this period. Juices of fruits like orange or pomegranate, butter-milk, or coconut water may be taken after the acute symptoms are over.
Barley water mixed with an equal quantity of milk, with added sugar, can also be given. In mild cases, well-boiled rice or khichdi (rice and mung dal cooked with a pinch of salt), with curd and ripe bananas are permitted.
Foods which should be avoided in diarrhea are milk and milk-drinks, whole grain breads and cereals, cheese, fruits except banana, nuts, meats, fatty soups, sweets and all vegetables except tomato juice. After the condition improves, meals can be enlarged gradually to include raw juices like papaya juice, lemon juice and fresh pineapple juice, cooked vegetables, whole rice, soured milks such as yogurt and butter-milk. Raw foods should be taken only after the patient completely recovers.
Certain natural remedies have been found effective in curing diarrhea and these are carrot soup, banana, turmeric powder, the cultured or sour milk and garlic. Carrot soup supplies water to combat dehydration, replenishes sodium, potassium, phosphorous, calcium, sulphur and magnesium, supplies pectin and coats the intestine to allay inflammation.
It checks the growth of harmful intestinal bacteria and prevents vomiting. One pound of carrot may be cooked in five ounces of water until it is soft. The pulp should be strained and boiled water added to make a quart. Three-quarter table-spoon of salt may be mixed. The soup should be given in small amounts to the patient every half an hour.
Bananas contain pectin and encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria. Turmeric, a yellow vegetable powder used as a condiment has proved beneficial. Acidified milk such as yogurt or butter-milk help overcome the harmful intestinal flora and re-establish the benign or friendly flora. The acid in the soured milk also fights germs and bacteria. Garlic is yet another natural remedy which fights diarrhea and routs parasites. It is a powerful , effective and harmless antibiotic and aids digestion.