The condition can beacute(sudden and severe) orchronic(persistent or recurrent).
This article will go over the reasons why you might be experiencing diarrhea after eating.
It also provides some steps you might take to feel better and avoid future episodes.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
Acute diarrhea is a common problem that can sometimes happen after eating.
It typically gets better on its own after one or two days.
Chronic diarrhea after eating can be a symptom of several health conditions.
For people with these conditions, a snack or meal can be enough to trigger an episode of diarrhea.
People who are lactose intolerant can get diarrhea after eating dairy foods.
Sugar Malabsorption
Some peoplecant digest the sugarsfructose and sorbitol.
Eating these sugars may cause diarrhea after eating.
This is broadly referred to as sugar malabsorption.
Fructoseis found in many fruits and in high-fructose corn syrup.
Sorbitol is found in some fruits andartificial sweeteners.
Diarrhea thats sparked by celiac disease is often very smelly.
The stool is also more likely to float than sink.
The avoidance of gluten is the primary form of treatment.
Microscopic Colitis
Microscopic colitis is an inflammation of the large intestine that causes persistent watery diarrhea.
Diarrhea that doesnt improve with treatment is typical ofmicroscopic colitis.
It can occur immediately after eating or on an ongoing basis.
With IBS, you experience symptoms without any visible signs of damage or disease in your digestive tract.
But when bile accumulates, it triggers contractions and the excess release of fluid from your large intestines.
Diarrhea is the result.
The most common cause of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency is chronic pancreatitis followed by pancreatic tumors and pancreas resection surgery.
Dumping Syndrome
Dumping syndromeis most common among people who have hadbariatric surgeryfor weight loss.
Colon Cancer
Chronic diarrhea is not typically a sign ofcolon cancer;constipationis more likely.
This is because fluids can start to accumulate if hardened stool blocks the intestines for a prolonged period.
Other symptoms include bloody stools, mucus in stools, abdominal cramping, fatigue, and unintended weight loss.
These tips can help ease the symptom or even prevent it from happening.
you’re able to also try drinking ginger tea when you have diarrhea to soothe your stomach ache.
These foods are low in fiber and easy to digest.
They are also starchy, which helps bind loose stools.
Take Probiotics
Consumingprobioticsmay help relieve diarrhea symptoms by restoring the balance of bacteria in your gut.
They may also help slow the emptying of your bowels.
Should You Take Medication?
There are several over-the-counter (OTC) diarrhea treatments available, but they are not always recommended.
If in doubt, ask your healthcare provider for advice.
Summary
Diarrhea after eating will often get better on its own after a few days.
However, it can also be a chronic, ongoing problem.
Acute diarrhea is often due to a temporary illness like the stomach flu or food poisoning.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Definition & facts for diarrhea.
Szilagyi A, Ishayek N.Lactose intolerance, dairy avoidance, and treatment options.Nutrients.
2018;72(2):e13066.
