What Really Causes A Runny Tummy, Dr Christian Aminarh Breaks It Down

Let’s be honest, almost everyone has had that moment where a meal just doesn’t sit right. Whether it’s street food, a trusted spot, or even something homemade, the experience of a runny stomach, medically known as diarrhoea, is more common than we like to admit.

But what actually causes it? And more importantly, what should you do when it happens?

On The Big Convo, Dr Chris Aminarh joined the discussion to demystify the condition, explaining its causes, prevention and why many people approach it the wrong way.

According to Dr Aminarh, diarrhoea is defined as the frequent passage of loose or watery stool, typically three or more times a day.

However, normal bowel habits differ from person to person: some people go once daily, others go once every two to three days but both can be completely normal depending on diet and metabolism.

“The body needs time to absorb nutrients,” he explained. “If food moves too fast or too slow through your system, it becomes a problem.”

Dr Aminarh highlighted several key triggers:

Food Poisoning: eating contaminated food or drinking unsafe water remains the most common cause. This includes exposure to: bacteria, viruses, parasites and poorly handled or stored food. Undercooked meals especially meats like chicken are a major risk.

Poor Hygiene: simple habits can expose people to infections: not washing hands properly, touching contaminated surfaces like door handles and food vendors practising poor hygiene. 

“Water alone isn’t enough,” he noted. “You need proper handwashing or sanitising to reduce risk.”

Street Food Contamination: while widely loved, street food can sometimes be exposed to: flies, dust and multiple handlers. Even small actions like talking while serving food can introduce bacteria.

One key takeaway from the discussion is that diarrhoea is not always the enemy.

“It’s the body’s way of ejecting something harmful,” Dr Aminarh said. Just like fever helps the body fight infection, diarrhoea helps flush out toxins or irritants.

Many people attempt to stop diarrhoea immediately especially when traveling but this can be counterproductive.

“Stopping it too quickly prevents the body from clearing what it needs to remove,” he warned.

The biggest danger of diarrhoea is dehydration. He recommended Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS), coconut water or fluids with electrolytes. Importantly, ORS does not stop diarrhoea it replaces lost fluids.

From food choices to hygiene habits, digestive health is influenced by everyday decisions. While many have adapted to risky eating environments, Dr Aminarh warns against complacency.

“We’ve become used to things that should harm us,” he said. “But that doesn’t mean they are safe.”

Ultimately, understanding your body and respecting basic hygiene and food safety remains the best defence.