Oil Sensitivity: Causes of Diarrhea and Weight Loss - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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It sounds like you are experiencing a significant sensitivity to dietary fats, which is leading to gastrointestinal distress, specifically diarrhea, whenever you consume even small amounts of oil or fatty foods. This condition can be quite distressing and may have several underlying causes that need to be explored further.

Firstly, your symptoms suggest a possible malabsorption issue. Malabsorption occurs when the body is unable to properly digest and absorb nutrients from food. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including pancreatic insufficiency, where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes to break down fats effectively. Conditions such as chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or even certain types of diabetes can lead to this issue. If your body cannot digest fats properly, they can pass through your intestines undigested, leading to oily stools and diarrhea.

Another potential cause could be a gallbladder issue. The gallbladder stores bile, which is essential for fat digestion. If there are problems with bile production or release, such as in cases of gallstones or cholecystitis, it can lead to difficulties in digesting fatty foods, resulting in gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea.

Additionally, your weight loss and low body mass index (BMI) are concerning. A BMI of 15.6 (calculated from your height and weight) is significantly below the normal range and indicates that you may be undernourished. This can lead to a host of health issues, including weakened immune function, muscle wasting, and other metabolic problems. It is crucial to address both your gastrointestinal symptoms and your nutritional status.

Given your severe reaction to fats, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a gastroenterologist or a registered dietitian. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests, imaging studies, or even a stool analysis to assess for malabsorption or other gastrointestinal disorders. They may also recommend dietary modifications to help manage your symptoms while ensuring you receive adequate nutrition.

In the meantime, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and your subsequent symptoms. This can help identify specific triggers and patterns that may be useful for your healthcare provider. It may also be beneficial to explore alternative sources of nutrition that are lower in fat but still provide essential nutrients, such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Lastly, while it may be tempting to avoid all fats entirely, it is important to remember that some fats are essential for health. Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, are crucial for brain health and can be found in fish oil or flaxseed oil. However, these should only be introduced under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially given your current sensitivity.

In summary, your symptoms of diarrhea upon consuming fats, coupled with significant weight loss, warrant a comprehensive medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. It is essential to address both your gastrointestinal health and nutritional needs to improve your overall well-being.