10 rescue actions for the rebellious gut

• What exactly is diarrhoea (diarrhoea)?

Diarrhoea is not a disease in itself but a symptom. It is defined as more than three bowel movements per day with a mushy or liquid consistency, or a stool volume exceeding 250 grams per day.

• Use green tea deliberately

Green tea contains tannins that can soothe the gastrointestinal tract. Drink lukewarm green tea in small sips if you want to take in fluids while also achieving a calming effect.

• Ensure adequate fluid intake

The most important immediate step is to replace lost fluids. Choose bottled water, soft drinks in cans or alcohol-free beer with a favourable electrolyte composition. Avoid open drinks and tap water, as they may be hygienically unsafe. Do not use cola as a home remedy, as sugar, caffeine and carbonation can actually worsen fluid loss.

• Short, easily digestible carbohydrates

Because the body loses a lot of energy during diarrhoea, short-chain carbohydrates such as pasta and white rice are helpful, as they provide quickly usable energy and place little strain on the gut. Prioritise carbohydrates over fatty or strongly spiced foods.

• Bananas and apples for pectin

Mashed, pureed bananas provide potassium, magnesium and pectin. Pectin binds fluid in the intestine and helps thicken the stool. Apples should also be chewed or drunk as apple spritz (Apfelschorle) so that the pectin is released and can exert its binding effect.

• Avoid ice cubes

Ice cubes from ice machines or open containers carry a high hygiene risk, as bacteria can easily multiply there. It is therefore better not to use ice cubes in drinks, especially when travelling or in situations with uncertain hygiene.

• Rice porridge to soothe the intestinal lining

An established home remedy is rice porridge. Cook one cup of polished rice with five cups of water for about 45 minutes. Then puree the mixture and eat several small portions of it daily. Rice porridge soothes the irritated intestinal lining and can help firm the stool.

• Medicinal clay to bind toxins

Stir one to two teaspoons of finely ground medicinal clay powder into half a glass of water or tea and drink the mixture in small sips. Medicinal clay can help reduce the burden on the gut.

• Heat application for pain relief

A hot-water bottle or a warm grain cushion emits long-lasting, pleasant heat and soothes cramping abdominal muscles. Apply the heat source for as long as it provides relief.

• Thorough hygiene at home

Clean and disinfect the toilet, sink, floors and door handles with disinfectant wipes. Wear disposable gloves while doing this. Wash your hands before every meal, after every toilet visit and regularly in between. Hand disinfectant sprays for on the go are a sensible addition.