If you find yourself rushing to the toilet after every meal, a TikTok doctor says “you’re not alone.”
What does it mean?
The doctor clarifies that it’s not because the food moves instantly through your gastrointestinal tract. Instead, it’s something called the gastrocolic reflex.
What is the gastrocolic reflex?
The gastrocolic reflex is a natural physiological response that stimulates movement in your lower gastrointestinal tract after eating. It’s not a disease, but a normal reflex that helps your body make room for more food in your GI tract.
Dr. Salhab explains that when you eat, your stomach stretches, sending signals to your brain, which then signals your colon. This causes your colon to contract to make space for more food, triggering the urge to use the restroom. The substances that come out are actually old digested food and water.
Heightened reflex
People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may experience a heightened gastrocolic reflex. IBS can cause painful abdominal symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, gas, and bloating.
Dr. Salhab notes that some people with IBS may experience severe abdominal pain, cramping, or even diarrhea due to powerful colon contractions. However, there are ways to ease these symptoms.
