Loose stools, commonly referred to as diarrhea, involve the frequent passage of watery or mushy bowel movements. This condition can result from a variety of causes, including infections (viral, bacterial, or parasitic), food intolerances (such as lactose intolerance), and digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Consuming certain foods and beverages, such as those high in artificial sweeteners or caffeine, can also trigger loose stools. Additionally, stress and anxiety can exacerbate digestive issues, leading to looser stools.