Common Conditions - Chapter 2: Diarrhea

“Where is the nearest bathroom?”

“I got to go!”

If you are constantly in search of a bathroom, things may not be all good digestively!

Welcome back to common condition - this chapter is diarrhea!

Last time we covered the other end of the spectrum, when things are moving too slowly - constipation! This time we are covering when things are moving too quickly.

Like I said, it can be uncomfortable or taboo to talk about our poop, but the less we talk about it or avoid it, the more likely we are to not understand what is normal. SO let’s keep talking about it!

Now, how do we know you are likely dealing with diarrhea? If you are going to the bathroom immediately after eating, if there is no form (or loose form) to your poop (and yes you should look), or if you are going MULTIPLE (more than 2-3) times a day - things are likely moving too quicky!

So now we know what we are looking for, we need to cover causes! There are many reasons why or digestive system may be moving at bullet train speed! This can include infections, stress and anxiety, IBS, the use of laxative substances, too much of a good thing (like popcorn or cheese), lactose intolerance, celiac disease, IBD and of course many more!

The nuances of what to do depend on the cause, so as always consult with your friendly neighbourhood Nurse Practionner, ND or GP to help take the necessary steps!

An action plan can include things like evaluating portions sizes and how much fiber you are consuming but also includes evaluating your stress life and seeing how things are being managed.

Overall, diarrhea can be a tricky one! Especially since once you start working on it, the body now has to get used to poop being in you a little longer. This adjustment period can be weird and uncomfortable, and may cause some bloating you have not experience before. As long as this phase is short and does not stick around, then we are on our way to healthier toilet trips!

I tried to keep this one quick like your poops which of course always leaves more questions! If this sounds like you and you want to know more, find me in the clinic via the link in bio or send me a message!

Stick to for our next chapter on cold & flu season!