Immediate Steps

  1. 1

    Hydrate aggressively

    Diarrhoea causes rapid fluid and electrolyte loss. Dehydration is the primary danger, especially in children and older adults. Drink small sips frequently: water, clear broth, diluted apple juice, or an oral rehydration solution (ORS) like Hydralyte or Gastrolyte (available from pharmacies). Avoid large gulps which can trigger further stomach cramps. Aim for a cup of fluid for every loose stool passed.

  2. 2

    Eat bland, gentle foods

    The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is the traditional recommendation — these foods are easy to digest, low in fibre and help firm stools. Other safe options: plain crackers, boiled or baked potato (no skin), plain pasta, plain chicken breast. Eat small amounts frequently rather than large meals.

  3. 3

    Avoid foods that worsen symptoms

    Avoid dairy products (lactase enzyme activity is temporarily reduced during gut infections), fatty or fried food, high-fibre foods (fruits with skin, raw vegetables, legumes), spicy food, caffeine, and alcohol — all of which can stimulate gut motility and worsen diarrhoea.

  4. 4

    Over-the-counter medications

    Loperamide (Imodium): Slows gut motility. Effective for reducing the number of loose stools. Available over the counter. Do not use if diarrhoea is bloody or you have a fever — these may indicate a bacterial infection where stopping diarrhoea too quickly traps the pathogen. Oral rehydration sachets (Gastrolyte, Hydralyte): replace lost electrolytes more effectively than water alone.

Probiotics

Evidence supports probiotics (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Saccharomyces boulardii) for reducing the duration of infectious diarrhoea by 1–2 days. Available as capsules or sachets from pharmacies. Most useful when started early.

See a doctor if: Diarrhoea lasts more than 3 days in adults (24–48 hours in infants and young children). Blood or mucus in the stool. Severe abdominal pain or cramping. Signs of dehydration: dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth, no urination for 8+ hours. Fever above 38.5°C. Recent travel to a developing country (possible parasitic or bacterial infection requiring specific treatment).

Frequently Asked Questions

Eat bland foods rather than fasting. Older advice recommended fasting to “rest the gut” but current guidelines recommend continuing to eat gentle foods. Eating helps maintain the intestinal lining, provides energy for immune response and does not prolong illness. Small, frequent bland meals are better than large meals or nothing at all.
Infectious diarrhoea (from viruses like norovirus or rotavirus, or bacteria like Salmonella) is highly contagious and spreads via the faecal-oral route — contaminated hands, surfaces, food and water. Thorough handwashing with soap after using the toilet and before handling food is the most effective prevention. Stay home from work or school for at least 48 hours after the last episode.