Health blogs by Dr. Reddy.

Causes of Diarrhoea Diarrhoea is a common condition characterized by frequent, loose, or watery stools. It can affect people of all ages and is usually a symptom of an underlying issue. The causes of diarrhoea vary widely and may be classified as infectious or non-infectious. 1. Infections: The most common cause of diarrhoea is infection by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Viral infections, such as rotavirus and norovirus, are particularly common in children. Bacterial causes include Escherichia coli , Salmonella , and Shigella , often resulting from contaminated food or water. Parasitic infections like giardiasis can also lead to diarrhoea, especially in areas with poor sanitation. 2. Food Intolerance and Allergies: Some people may experience diarrhoea after consuming certain foods. Lactose intolerance, for instance, occurs when the body cannot digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. Food allergies, such as those to gluten (celiac disease), can also trigger diarrhoea. 3. Me...

  Diet During Diarrhoea: What to Eat, What to Avoid (Illustrative image) Diarrhoea can leave your body weak, dehydrated, and nutritionally depleted. The right diet can help ease symptoms and speed up recovery. One key principle: keep it light and simple. Start with the BRAT diet —Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These foods are bland, low in fiber, and help firm up stools. Bananas, in particular, replenish potassium lost in diarrhoea. Also, drink plenty of fluids—water, clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are ideal to restore lost electrolytes. Avoid irritants that can worsen diarrhoea. Say no to caffeine, dairy (especially if lactose-intolerant), alcohol, fried foods, and high-fiber vegetables. These can irritate the gut or increase bowel movements. Instead, opt for easy-to-digest, low-fat, and low-fiber options. Gradually reintroduce more solid foods as symptoms improve. Small, frequent meals are more tolerable than large ones. What to Eat What to Avoi...