Feeling the urge to poop right after eating is a common phenomenon known as the gastrocolic reflex. This natural bodily response occurs when your stomach stretches after eating, signaling your brain to prompt your colon to contract and make room for food. The stool expelled is from previously digested food, not your recent meal.
For people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the reflex can be more intense, leading to symptoms like discomfort, diarrhea, and bloating. IBS heightens colon contractions, making the reflex more forceful.To manage symptoms, Dr. Salhab suggests avoiding trigger foods like carbonated drinks, alcohol, citrus, dairy, and fatty foods, which can irritate the digestive system. If this reflex causes significant discomfort, it’s worth consulting a healthcare professional.
