Dehydration is a serious complication
FACT – Diarrhoea leads to fluid loss and losing too much fluid can make you severely dehydrated. Children are at higher risk of dehydration.
Getting an annual flu shot prevents stomach flu
MYTH – Seasonal flu is caused by the influenza virus – it rarely causes diarrhoea. “Stomach flu” is another term for viral gastroenteritis, which may be caused by different viruses.
Teething causes diarrhoea
MYTH – Diarrhoea in infants is not triggered by teething. Your baby may become irritable or cranky during teething, but if he also has diarrhoea or fever, consult your doctor.
Sugary foods worsen diarrhoea
FACT – Sugary foods or drinks can make diarrhoea worse because sugar draws fluid into the intestines during digestion, diluting stool.
Eating yogurt can help lessen diarrhoea
FACT – Probiotics found in yogurt may encourage healthy digestion and may help you to recover from diarrhoea more quickly.
Diarrhoea is not serious; it is just like the common cold
MYTH – Diarrhoea is the second leading cause of death in children less than 5 years old3. It is not to be taken lightly.
References
- Diarrhea Myths and Facts. Accessed on 26 Jul 2022 at: https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/ss/slideshow-diarrhea-myths-facts
- Diarrhea: Myths versus Facts. Accessed on 26 Jul 2022 at: https://www.defeatdd.org/resources/visual-media/diarrhea-myths-versus-facts
- Diarrhea: Common Illness, Global Killer. Accessed on 29 Aug 2022 at: https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/pdf/global/programs/globaldiarrhea508c.pdf