Moctezuma II is the namesake of Moctezuma’s revenge, a form of diarrhea that arises when a tourist in Mexico consumes food or drinks water they’re unaccustomed to. The bacteria in local water often differ from what the traveler is used to, which can trigger the condition. Moctezuma II was captured, tortured, and killed by Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés in 1520.

While being tortured to reveal the location of the Aztec gold treasury, Moctezuma’s feet were burned, but he stoically refused to disclose the information. He died, but not before issuing a threat and promise of revenge.

Diarrhea is an intestinal infection resulting from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

The main organisms causing Moctezuma’s revenge include diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, especially ETEC (enterotoxigenic E. coli) and EAEC (enteroaggregative E. coli). Other culprits may include salmonella, campylobacter, shigella, norovirus, and rotavirus, depending on the region.

How to Stop Diarrhea Fast

A common remedy is the BRAT diet: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These bland, low-fiber, starchy foods help bulk up stools and soothe the digestive system.

Diarrhea-causing bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli are often contracted through contaminated food and drinks. Viruses like rotavirus and norovirus can also cause gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as stomach flu.

Foods to Avoid During Diarrhea

• Milk and dairy products (including milk-based protein drinks)
• Fried, fatty, or greasy foods
• Spicy foods
• Processed foods with additives
• Pork and veal
• Raw vegetables

Helpful Herbs for Diarrhea

• Chamomile: Available as tea, liquid, or capsules. Reduces inflammation and gut spasms.
• Teas from blueberry, blackberry, or raspberry leaves: Contain tannins that reduce inflammation and fluid secretion in the intestines.

Apple cider vinegar also helps bulk up stool and reduce intestinal inflammation. As a natural antibiotic, it’s particularly helpful against bacteria-based diarrhea.

Bland Foods That Can Help

• Hot cereals: oatmeal, cream of wheat, rice porridge
• Bananas
• Applesauce
• Plain white rice
• Bread or toast
• Boiled potatoes
• Unseasoned crackers

Important: Do not drink excessive water. Overhydration can overwhelm the kidneys and cause water retention in the body, resulting in unpleasant symptoms.

Cooked Vegetables That May Help

Try soups made with cooked asparagus tips, beets, carrots, peeled zucchini, mushrooms, celery, tomato purée, or baked potatoes (without skin). Avoid caffeinated, alcoholic, carbonated, very hot, or very cold beverages.

Rebuilding the Body After Diarrhea

Consume foods high in potassium and minerals to replenish what was lost. Include probiotic and fiber-rich foods such as Maz-Mix, pineapple, and dragon fruit (pitaya) to help restore gut flora.

Additional helpful foods include:

• Lentils
• Bananas
• Mangoes
• Coconut milk
• Citrus fruits

These foods are rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, phenolic acid, and prebiotics, which support healthy bacteria, lower blood sugar, and aid digestion.