Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (185 page)

Intestinal spasm.

Action plan

Identify the cause and deal with it as necessary. If you have blood in the stools, black stools, fever, severe pain, or the diarrhea lasts more than three days, consult your GP.

EAT/DRINK

Fluids. Diarrhea can result in serious dehydration. Drink warm, not cold, water, as cold water can send the digestive system into spasm.

Barley or rice water daily. Simmer
¹
⁄
₂
cup of barley or brown rice in four cups of water for 45 to 60 minutes. Strain and drink.

Blackberry juice, which is reputed to help in combating diarrhea.

Freshly pressed vegetable juices, which contain minerals. Diarrhea causes a loss of minerals, particularly sodium and potassium. Include celery, carrots, apples, bananas, and cabbage for their nourishing and healing properties.

Buckwheat, which is believed to strengthen the intestines and is useful in the treatment of chronic diarrhea. Cook it well in plenty of water.

Garlic and onions if infection is present.

Well-cooked whole grains; try short-grain brown rice, quinoa, millet, or oats.

The juice of blueberries or blueberries in whole form are a well-known antidote for diarrhea due to their antibacterial compounds.

Leeks contain a helpful astringent quality.

AVOID

Alcohol, caffeine, tea, soft drinks, and carbonated drinks, which irritate the bowel.

Wheat bran, sugar, and spices, which also irritate the bowel and perpetuate the problem.