One of our top priorities as parents is to keep our children healthy and happy as that is the foremost thing for us. When children have loose motions or diarrhoea, it can be a painful experience for both them and us. Infections, dietary sensitivities, and even stress can all contribute to loose motion in kids. While a paediatrician should be consulted in extreme situations, there are numerous excellent home remedies to control loose motion that can help ease symptoms and bring comfort to your child. In this guide, we’ll look at some gentle, natural ways to restrict these fluid movements in children with the help of experts in treatment for pediatric infectious diseases in Pune.
Understanding Children’s Loose Motion
Before we get into the cures, let’s take a quick look at what causes loose motion in children. Loose motion, often known as diarrhea, is characterized by frequent and watery bowel movements. It can be caused in children by:
- Diseases: Bacterial, viral, or parasite diseases can cause gastrointestinal irritation, resulting in loose motion. Rotavirus, E. coli, and Giardia are common offenders.
- Food Intolerances: Some meals, such as dairy products, high-fibre diets, or too much fruit juice, might cause loose movements in kids.
- Drugs: Some drugs may cause stomach problems.
- Emotional stress or anxiety: It can also affect the digestive system and cause loose motions.
Now, Let’s Look At Some Safe And Efficient Home Remedies For Loose Motion In Children
- ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution): Preventing dehydration is one of the most important stages in regulating loose motion. ORS solutions, which are widely accessible in pharmacies, aid in the replacement of lost fluids and electrolytes. You can also make your own ORS by combining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 2 tablespoons sugar in 1 litre of clean, boiling water. Allow your toddler to take little sips throughout the day.
- Clear Fluids: In addition to ORS, clear fluids such as water, diluted apple juice, and clear broths can help your kid stay hydrated. Sugary or carbonated beverages should be avoided as they can aggravate loose motion.
- The BRAT Diet: The BRAT diet is an acronym that stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These foods are soothing on the stomach and can aid in stool firmness. Begin with tiny quantities and gradually return your child to their regular diet as their condition improves.
- Probiotics: These are beneficial bacteria that can aid in the restoration of gut flora equilibrium. Probiotic supplements are available that are specifically developed for children, or probiotic-rich foods such as yoghurt with live cultures.
- Ginger Tea: Ginger has anti-inflammatory effects that can help to ease the digestive system. Make a mild ginger tea by boiling a small piece of ginger in water, cooling it down, and giving your child small sips.
- Mashed bananas: They are high in pectin, which aids in the absorption of excess fluid in the intestines. Feed a mashed ripe banana to your toddler.
- Boiled Rice Water: Boil rice in extra water and sieve. Rice water is the starchy water that is left behind and can help bulk up stools and soothe the stomach.
- Cumin Water: Cumin seeds have antibacterial qualities that can help with digestive issues. Place 1 teaspoon boiled cumin seeds in a cup of water, drain, and allow to cool before feeding to your child.
- Carrot Soup: Carrots include vitamins and minerals that can help with recuperation. To create a mild carrot soup, boil and purée carrots.
- Rest and Comfort: Make sure your youngster receives enough rest. Stress and discomfort can aggravate loose motion, so establish a soothing environment.
- Maintain Personal Hygiene: Handwashing before and after meals, after using the toilet, and on a frequent basis can help to keep infections at bay.
- Seek the advice of a paediatrician: If your child’s condition does not improve within 48 hours, or if they exhibit indications of severe dehydration (dry lips, sunken eyes, no tears while weeping), a high temperature, or blood in their stools, seek medical attention. Consult a pediatric infectious diseases specialist in Pune right away.
- Avoid Dairy Products: Dairy products might aggravate loose motion in many cases. Remove dairy from your child’s diet temporarily till their stomach settles.
- Limit Sugary Foods: Sugary foods and beverages might aggravate loose motion. Avoid sweet snacks in favour of plain, straightforward fare.
- Nursing Frequency (for Infants): If your child is an infant and is nursing, continue to breastfeed regularly since breast milk provides necessary nutrients and water.
To Summarize
Loose motion in children can be emotionally taxing for parents, but with the correct home remedies and care, most instances can be effectively handled. Remember to see a paediatrician if the illness worsens or lingers. Meanwhile, keep your child hydrated, provide mild and readily digested foods, and provide a pleasant environment. Your child will soon be back to their lively and healthy self with your love and care.