After eating a meal or food, do you get the urge to poop?
If this happens rarely, then it is not an issue but if it happens regularly then it could be a serious issue. Then, doctors must be consulted without fail. It is believed that the feel of poop after eating food is a natural response of the body and the stomach gives signals to the colon to make way for new food. Underlying health issues are indicated if there is a need to poop every time after eating meals.
Various possible reasons are
Anxiety and stress:
It must be noted that in digestion gut-brain connections play a huge role. As a result, some people are more prone to go to the toilet after eating food and this could be due to stress.
Gastrocolic reflux:
After eating, bowel movement would get stimulated due to normal reflux. This would take place especially when the person eats larger and high fat foods.
Food intolerances:
Our digestive system would get irritated by certain foods such as dairy, gluten etc. Spicy foods can also lead to irritation. Intake of fibre based foods would be superb for digestion but excess intake would lead to frequent bowel movements.
Caffeine and sugar intake:
Bowel movements would be triggered when a person consumes caffeine and sugar as they would act as laxative.
Persons who have sensitive digestive systems, persons who are more prone to anxiety, those with IBS and those who work in shifts would get affected. That is they would have more urge to poop after eating food.
When to worry and seek medical attention?
It is noteworthy that after eating food if he or she has persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss and blood in stool etc, then seeking medical attention is compulsory.
Managing this issue:
It would be possible to manage the issue of pooping after eating meals by eating a well balanced meal consisting of lean proteins, healthy fats and moderate amounts of fibres etc. Following a FODMAP diet would help in managing bowel movements by easing digestive discomfort. By pinpointing dietary triggers through a food diary, by i incorporating mindfulness, deep breathing exercises etc. The issue regarding pooping after eating food can be managed by limiting caffeine and sugar. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking enough water and avoiding excess fluids during meals. Gut health could be supported by including fermented foods, kefir, yoghurt etc.
