Digestive Wellness: Strengthen the Immune System and Prevent Disease Through Healthy Digestion, Fourth Edition (114 page)

Hydrogen breath test for SIBO

Lactose breath test

Food allergy and sensitivity testing—IgG and IgE

Healing options depend on the cause of the diarrhea. See the appropriate sections for complete healing options. Do testing to discover if there is a correctable underlying cause.

Supplement with probiotics.
These beneficial bacteria help normalize bowel function. They ferment fiber, which produces short-chain fatty acids to fuel the colonic tissue. You can also take probiotic supplements to help prevent traveler’s diarrhea. Take two to six capsules daily.

Use Saccharomyces boulardii.
This friendly yeast probiotic has been used successfully to prevent and treat diarrhea caused by antibiotics, traveler’s diarrhea, and diarrhea associated with AIDS. It boosts levels of secretory IgA, which is a protective part of the immune system. It is safe for all ages. Take two to six capsules daily.

Wash your hands frequently.
The simple act of washing your hands with soap can help reduce the incidence of ongoing diarrhea. In a study done with mothers of children with prolonged diarrhea, the mothers were simply asked to wash their own hands with soap and water before preparing food and eating and to wash their children’s hands before eating and as soon as possible after a bowel movement. There was an 89 percent reduction in diarrhea in the hand-washing moms’ group in comparison with the control group.

Investigate food allergies and sensitivities
. Diarrhea is a common symptom of food sensitivities and allergies. Lactose intolerance is a common source of diarrhea. Avoid milk and dairy foods for two or three weeks to see if the diarrhea stops. Try an elimination diet. Test for food sensitivities.

Take goldenseal.
This herb is highly effective for treatment of acute diarrhea caused by microbial infection. Be sure to use goldenseal in recommended dosages as it may also cause diarrhea if used in excessive amounts.

Eat yogurt.
This can help stop diarrhea. Yogurt contains active bacteria, L. thermophilus and L. bulgaricus, which help prevent and stop diarrhea. There have been several studies showing yogurt’s effectiveness.

Use olive oil.
One study showed that oleic acid, the main fatty acid in olive oil, slowed down transit time in people with chronic diarrhea. Because it’s so nontoxic, it’s worth a try. Oleic acid is also found in olives, almonds, and avocados.

Increase fiber.
Adding psyllium, flax, hemp, or other fiber as a daily supplement can help solidify stools. Begin with 1 to 2 teaspoons in at least 8 ounces of water.

Avoid alcohol sugars.
Sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, isomalt, and xylitol are indigestible sugars found in sugar-free candy, gums, and snack bars. They can easily cause diarrhea, gas, and bloating.