Choice A rationale:

Gastroenteritis does not cause the intestines to absorb excess fluids.

In fact, it does the opposite by decreasing absorption and increasing fluid secretion, leading to diarrhea.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

Gastroenteritis does not inhibit fluid secretion; instead, it damages the intestines, causing increased fluid secretion and decreased absorption, which results in diarrhea.

Choice C rationale:

The correct answer.

Gastroenteritis, especially the infectious type, damages the intestines.

The infection leads to decreased absorption of fluids and increased fluid secretion, causing diarrhea.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is inaccurate.

Gastroenteritis does impact fluid balance in the intestines.

It disrupts the normal functioning of the intestines, leading to fluid imbalances.