Diarrhoea or loose motions is a very commonly occurring health problem in infants. I wouldn’t have believed it either, but my 1-year-old has changed my views on the subject.
Loose motion in infants or diarrhoea is the body’s way of flushing out harmful toxins and other bacteria from the system. When this happens, your baby’s bowel movements become irregular, watery, and sometimes stinky. This is a huge red flag! Even though the problem pretty much solves itself in a day or two, your baby might need medical help if his diarrhoea lasts for more than a week.
Your baby also runs the chance of being severely dehydrated if the condition is not given proper attention when due.
Here are a few home remedies to stop loose motion in infants that are remarkably effective:
Sago water
Sabudana or sago water is an excellent cure for loose motion in babies! Boil sabudana in a boiler till it completely immerses in water. Strain and give the water to your child to help maintain his body fluids and provide relief.
ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution)
An age-old home remedy for loose motion, ORS has a notable effect on your baby’s diarrhoea. While it does not cure the diarrhoea, it will replace all the essential salts and fluids that are being lost. You can purchase the sachets of ORS available in medical stores or you can prepare the solution at home. For the home preparation, mix ½ tsp of salt and 6 tsp of sugar in one litre of water. Feed this solution to your baby every one hour and you will see a difference in their health.
Pomegranate juice
Another very effective home remedy for loose motion, this can be given to kids every hour to help retain body fluids. Blend the pomegranate seeds in a blender and strain using a muslin cloth. The juice reduces inflammation of the stomach and also improves digestion.
Coconut water
Most commonly used as a rehydrating drink post workouts and exercises, coconut water has miraculous effects on diarrhoea or loose motion as well. It is loaded with electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and, manganese that are super for your baby’s fragile system. The drink not only provides an optimum fluid balance but also imparts strength to your baby.
Red lentil soup water or Dal Ka Paani
A popular Indian home remedy for loose motion, red lentils are excellent for the human digestive system! To cure your baby’s loose motion or diarrhoea, boil the red lentils in plenty of water. Let the lentils settle down, then strain the water and feed it to your baby. This water is loaded with fibre and energy which are both awesome for your baby’s stomach.
Bananas
Bananas are one of the best foods your baby can eat when suffering from the symptoms of diarrhoea. This miracle fruit helps make your baby’s stool firmer since it contains resistant starch that absorbs salt and water in the colon. The potassium present in bananas help get your infant’s digestion back to normal. There’s also fibre present in the fruit which helps restore normal levels of bowel movement.
Curd
Being a probiotic, curd is known to be one of the most effective cures for loose motion and diarrhoea in babies! It replenishes the good bacteria in your baby’s gut, thereby aiding in digestion and a healthy bowel movement. Curd soothes your child’s digestive system, providing relief from the constant irritation.
Breast milk
If your baby is still breastfeeding, continue the process without fail. Breastmilk contains all the essential nutrients required by an infant, especially during loose motions. If your baby is less than 6 months old, then do not inculcate any other home remedy to treat him. Feed him breastmilk, however, if the problem persists, seek medical help immediately.
Starch-rich foods
If your tiny tot has started consuming solid/semi-solid food items, you can feed them potatoes or rice cereal to help curb symptoms of diarrhoea. Boil a potato, mash it completely, and add a pinch of salt. You may give this to your baby at least once a day!
Lemon juice
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of lemon juice are widely popular and it is an excellent cure for loose motion in babies. A spoonful of lemon juice can be given to your baby at least 5 times a day to help with his diarrhoea.
Tips to avoid loose motion in infants!
- Keep all of your babies’ things immaculately clean. Make sure his teethers and toys are disinfected on a regular basis.
- Feed him more liquids, however, do not force him to eat. Rather, give him small meals frequently.
- Steer clear of food items such as cheese and butter. You can give other liquids to your infant if he is above 6 months old.
- Make sure your baby gets sufficient rest.
- Wash your hands with soap and water every time before feeding your baby or playing with him.
Your baby has a very delicate system, so the food he eats must be thoroughly monitored along with his surroundings.
Try these home remedies for loose motion out on your little bub and let me know if any of these helped.
One Response
Very well explained.I read one blog on Diarrhea on iahas where they mostly focus on the natural remedies. But not about kids. I appreciate that you bring this forward as well as food recommendation for child during diarrhea.. Your blog is really educative and I will add your blog to my list