Have you ever glanced into the toilet and noticed bits of your last meal staring back at you? Maybe some corn, seeds, or even small chunks of veggies? It can feel a little strange — and maybe even concerning — but according to Dr Gaurav Mehta, a consultant in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, it’s not always something to panic about.
“Seeing undigested food in your stool from time to time is actually pretty common,” says Dr Mehta. “Especially if you’ve eaten foods that are high in fibre, like beans or corn. These types of foods have tough outer shells that don’t break down easily during digestion.”
Another surprisingly common reason for spotting food remnants? Eating too quickly.
“When you don’t chew properly, your digestive system has to work harder,” Dr Mehta explains. “This means food might not get fully broken down, and you could see more of it come out the other end.”
That said, if it’s happening frequently — and especially if it comes with other symptoms like stomach cramps, ongoing diarrhoea, fatigue, or even low haemoglobin — it might be a sign of something more serious going on.
“When you don’t chew properly, your digestive system has to work harder,” Dr Mehta explains. (Source: Freepik)
Some conditions that can lead to undigested food showing up in your stool include:
- Celiac disease, where gluten damages the small intestine
- Pancreatic issues, which can affect how your body releases digestive enzymes
- Lactose intolerance, which can cause bloating and food malabsorption
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which impacts gut motility
- Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, which interfere with nutrient absorption
“While the occasional visible food particle isn’t a big deal, it’s important to listen to your body,” says Dr Mehta. “If you notice it happening regularly, especially along with other changes in how you feel, it’s a good idea to get it checked out.”
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In short: Don’t freak out if you spot a rogue kernel of corn or a sunflower seed. But if it’s a regular occurrence or comes with other red flags, it’s worth having a conversation with a gastro specialist.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
