Diarrhea refers to watery stools and can have various causes, ranging from food poisoning to infections or autoimmune diseases, notes Dr. Francisco J. de la Vega González, gastrointestinal endoscopic surgery specialist at ABC Medical Center.
Normally, the semi-solid consistency of stool reflects a balance between fiber and the water we consume, with fiber including a mix of the carbohydrates, fats, and proteins we eat.
Ideally, the intestine should absorb virtually everything we eat, including water. However, when these elements build up beyond what the body can absorb, they reach the colon, where bacteria in the gut microbiome ferment them, producing gas and some irritation.
This combination of fermentation, gas production, and intestinal irritation is ultimately what leads to diarrhea.
Another increasingly common cause is chronic, unsupervised probiotic use. Probiotics are concentrated forms of beneficial bacteria used to help restore the gut microbiome after an infection or antibiotic use disrupts it. However, if taken repeatedly without guidance, they can throw off the gut microbiome and trigger diarrhea instead.
Dr. de la Vega notes that several steps can help reduce diet-related diarrhea. One is cutting back on dairy, since it contains carbohydrates that are easily fermented by both us and the bacteria in our gut. If dairy seems to trigger this issue, reduce intake or, if needed, consider eliminating it altogether.
Refined flours are another food group that can contribute to carbohydrate overload.
But before eliminating specific foods, the most important step is improving the habit of eating vegetables regularly and increasing their variety. These foods provide the best source of energy and fiber to help prevent this issue.
If you have questions about your eating habits, see a nutritionist; for digestive-related concerns, see a gastroenterologist.
At ABC Medical Center’s Internal Medicine area, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
