Defecation is the act of expelling bodily waste, such as feces and urine, from the body. It is a natural and essential bodily process for ridding the body of leftover, undigested waste, as well as other materials that have built up in the digestive system. In most cases, defecation is done through the use of the colon and rectal muscles to excrete the waste in the form of feces....READ ORIGINAL & FULL CONTENT FROM SOURCE |
A common phenomenon known as the ‘gastrocolic reflex’ can sometimes cause people to defecate immediately after eating. In this article we will discuss the causes and effects of the gastrocolic reflex.
The ‘gastrocolic reflex’ is one of your body’s natural reflexes according to Healthline. It signals your colon to empty food once it gets to your stomach to make room for more. But, if the reflex goes into overdrive, you may have symptoms that require treatment.
When your gastrocolic reflex goes into overdrive, it may feel as if “food is going right through you.” You might head straight to the washroom after eating, or feel a number of symptoms such as pain, cramping, diarrhea, or constipation.
This exaggerated gastrocolic reflex isn’t a condition in itself. It’s typically a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in adults. In infants, it’s completely normal.
What causes the gastrocolic reflex? According to MayoClinic, several possible causes can trigger this reflex, including the presence of fat or certain types of fiber in the digestive system, a disruption to the gastro-intestinal system’s functioning, or even hormones associated with digestion. Certain medications can also cause the gastrocolic reflex to become more active.
What are the effects of the gastrocolic reflex? Generally, this reflex is beneficial to the body as it helps to rid the system of leftover, undigested waste and other materials that can build up in the digestive system. However, it can sometimes lead to embarrassing moments, such as having to rush to the bathroom immediately after eating.
In some cases, the gastrocolic reflex can also raise concerns about an underlying medical condition. If the reflex is present and is accompanied by other symptoms, such as abdominal pain, weight loss, changes to the consistency of one’s stool, or chronic diarrhea, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Furthermore, experiencing this reflex with regular meals should be reported to an appropriate medical professional.