General practitioner Pedro H Tarraga Lopez has recommended drinking pharmacy electrolyte solutions and eating light meals to manage prolonged diarrhea without health complications, publication CuidatePlus reported.
Lopez advised against targeted treatment for the condition, noting that most cases resolve naturally within two to three days. He emphasized that drinking specialized electrolyte solutions during this time is essential to prevent dehydration.
Dehydration occurs when the body loses vital fluids and minerals required for normal function. Electrolyte solutions contain balanced water, salts, and minerals that help stabilize the digestive system during gastrointestinal illness.
Nutrition and gut health
The physician stated that patients should not stop eating while experiencing diarrhea. According to Lopez, consuming food supports the recovery of intestinal microflora and can even shorten how long the condition lasts.
However, Lopez stressed that patients must eat strictly low-fat and light foods. Intestinal microflora consists of beneficial microorganisms in the digestive tract that assist digestion, making gentle food choices essential during recovery.
Use of antibiotics and medications
Lopez pointed out that viruses cause most cases of diarrhea, meaning antibiotics should not be used. He warned that taking antibiotic medications unnecessarily can cause further imbalances in gut microflora, though antibiotics are indicated if laboratory testing confirms a bacterial infection.
Regarding antidiarrheal drugs, Lopez said they can ease mild watery diarrhea in some adults when fever and blood in the stool are absent. However, he cautioned that these medications should be avoided in cases involving bloody diarrhea, high fever, severe stomach pain, suspected bacterial infections, or symptoms lasting several days, as they can worsen or prolong infections.
Lopez added that antidiarrheal medications should never be given to children without first consulting a doctor.
Related digestive health guidance
The advice follows previous recommendations on digestive health from gastroenterologist Inna Mazko. Mazko explained that individuals struggling with constipation should increase their physical activity to help improve bowel function.
