From Cathy Wong,
Your Guide to Alternative Medicine.
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Mucus in stool often indicates there is inflammation of the intestines. Mucus in stool can occur with either constipation or diarrhea. It's usually whitish in color.

According to alternative practitioners, the more common causes of mucus in stool includes bacterial overgrowth and food allergies and sensitivities. They are often easily corrected with dietary changes and supplements. With bacterial overgrowth, bloating and gas usually worsen after eating any sugar, whether it's white sugar, bread, pasta, rye, rice, or milk (which contains the sugar lactose). In contrast, people with food allergies and sensitivities react to specific foods.

Other causes of mucus in stool are:

• Ulcerative colitis
  
• Crohn's disease
  
• Celiac disease
  
• Diverticulitis

Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and celiac disease are often accompanied by diarrhea. Rectal bleeding can also occur with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

If there is no underlying disorder present, mucus in stool, abdominal bloating, and constipation are often helped by increasing water intake and taking herbal or food demulcents, substances that form a soothing film which soothes the intestinal lining.

Demulcent herbs include slippery elm and marshmallow. A demulcent tea can also be made by adding one cup of hot water to one teaspoon ground flaxseeds and soaking overnight.

If the tongue has a thick coating with teethmarks on the sides, greasy foods, dairy products, and wheat may be contributing to the mucus in stool. Avoiding these foods is often recommended, at least until the condition improves.

Bacterial or parasitic infections can also cause mucus in stool. They are often accompanied by a sudden onset of diarrhea, lower abdominal cramping, urgency and possibly blood in the stools.

Address any change or abnormality in bowel movement with your physician immediately, as it can be a sign of a serious disorder.