Why do you have diarrhea during weight loss

The occurrence of diarrhea during weight loss may be related to factors such as changes in dietary structure, food intolerance, gastrointestinal sensitivity, excessive use of weight loss products, and dysbiosis of the gut microbiota.

1. Changes in dietary structure

During weight loss, suddenly reducing the intake of high-fat and high sugar foods and increasing the proportion of dietary fiber may stimulate accelerated intestinal peristalsis. When some people switch from fine staple foods to large amounts of coarse grains, the intestinal adaptation period may cause transient diarrhea. It is recommended to adopt a gradual adjustment of dietary structure to give the gastrointestinal tract enough time to adapt.

2. Food intolerance

Some weight loss meal replacements or newly introduced low calorie foods may contain intolerant ingredients such as lactose and fructose. Common causes such as sudden and excessive consumption of gas producing foods such as broccoli and beans may lead to osmotic diarrhea. During the weight loss period, a dietary diary should be kept to identify suspected food allergens.

3. Gastrointestinal sensitivity

Long term dieting may lead to decreased gastrointestinal mucosal barrier function and reactive diarrhea. Extreme low calorie diet can reduce the secretion of digestive enzymes, affect fat absorption, and lead to fat diarrhea. When accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal sounds and a sense of urgency during bowel movements, it is necessary to temporarily suspend vigorous dietary adjustments.

4. Overuse of weight loss products

Some weight loss teas containing laxatives such as senna leaves and cassia seeds can directly stimulate the intestinal wall and cause secretory diarrhea. Legitimate weight loss drugs such as Orlistat capsules may also cause oily bowel movements by blocking fat absorption. Before using any weight loss product, the drug approval number should be confirmed.

5. Imbalance of gut microbiota

Long term single diet may disrupt the balance of gut microbiota and cause excessive reproduction of pathogenic bacteria. Manifested as alternating diarrhea and constipation, with undigested food during bowel movements. Probiotic preparations such as Bifidobacterium triple active capsules can be supplemented appropriately for regulation.

If diarrhea occurs during weight loss, one should stop consuming raw, cold, and stimulating foods and choose low residue diets such as rice soup and apple puree. Ensure a daily intake of at least 2000 milliliters of warm water to prevent dehydration. If diarrhea lasts for more than 3 days or is accompanied by fever and bloody stools, it is necessary to seek medical attention from a gastroenterologist in a timely manner to rule out infectious enteritis. It is recommended to adopt a scientific weight loss rate of no more than 1 kilogram per week to avoid physical stress reactions.