Lactose Intolerance

• Dairy products contain a substance called lactose. This is also known as milk sugar. A normal functioning digestive system produces an enzyme called lactase. It is the job of lactase to break down lactose when it is consumed. Milk is a primary food that is fed to toddlers. If they have lactose intolerance, they can develop diarrhea.
  
  

Wheat

• Another intolerance condition is an intolerance to the protein portion of wheat called gluten. The diagnosed condition of wheat and gluten intolerance is called celiac disease. This comes into play when toddlers are fed baby foods, such as hot cereals and grains, that contain rye, barley or wheat. When these foods are consumed, diarrhea is likely to occur. Gluten is also used as an additive in other foods, such as sauces, condiments and soups.
  
  

Rotavirus

• The stomach flu is one of the most common reasons for toddlers to get diarrhea. The most common type is called rotavirus. Children under five are usually the most affected, and they can even be hospitalized, if it is serious enough. In addition to diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration can also take place. In the worst of situations, when the infection is most severe, death can occur.
  
  

Bacteria

• A lot of bacteria are found in our world. Some of these are found in food, especially food that has been sitting around for a while or has been undercooked, such as meat. Some examples of these bacteria are salmonella, staphylococcus and E. coli. When a toddler if affected by any of these bacteria, he can suffer diarrhea, as well as a fever, chills, bloody stools and stomach cramps.
  
  

Parasites

• Parasites are unpleasant organisms that find homes in the bowels of toddlers. They are microscopic, but they can still cause a lot of havoc in the digestive system. Giardiasis is a common parasite that gets transmitted from contaminated drinking water. When toddlers get giardiasis, they can also suffer vomiting, loss of appetite, gas and stomach pain. Your child's pediatrician can help you figure out what is causing your toddler's illness and give you a plan of action.