Digestive Issues: Can Tomato Scrambled Eggs Cause Diarrhea? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Abdominal issues. Bowel problems?


Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if eating too much scrambled eggs with tomatoes can cause diarrhea.
I've been feeling some discomfort in my abdomen recently.
This morning, when I had a bowel movement, I noticed that my stool contained tomato remnants and some bubbles.
The stool was partially formed and partially loose.
I previously underwent an upper endoscopy and a colonoscopy, but the colonoscopy was incomplete because the doctor said my intestines are very sensitive and that sedation would be necessary to complete the procedure.
The doctor mentioned that my intestines appeared normal and that my stool was still formed, diagnosing me with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Last night, I had a larger portion of vegetables and scrambled eggs with tomatoes, and I'm wondering if this could be a dietary issue.
Additionally, I've been drinking more tea lately and I'm concerned whether these bowel issues could be a symptom of colon cancer.
Also, I would like to ask if having slightly indented (not very indented) stool is normal (it is thick).
I used to have a bowel movement every three days, but now I average one bowel movement per day.
Is this normal? I previously did not eat breakfast, but since I have been maintaining a regular schedule, my bowel movement frequency has changed from once every three days to once a day.
I would appreciate your clarification on these matters.
Thank you.

Mr. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/20

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology


Hello: If there is no family history of early-onset colorectal cancer, there is no need to worry too much.
If changes in stool patterns or frequency are due to certain dietary factors, it is generally not a concern.
If you still have questions, you can return for a follow-up visit to determine if further examination is necessary.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2023/02/20

More Info


When it comes to dietary choices and their impact on digestive health, it's important to understand how certain foods can affect our gastrointestinal system. In your case, you are concerned about whether eating too much tomato scrambled eggs could lead to diarrhea and other digestive issues.
Tomato scrambled eggs are generally considered a healthy dish, rich in protein from the eggs and vitamins from the tomatoes. However, consuming them in excess, especially if combined with other high-fiber foods like vegetables, can lead to digestive discomfort for some individuals. This is particularly true for those with sensitive digestive systems, such as those diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which you mentioned in your previous medical evaluations.

The symptoms you described, such as noticing undigested tomato pieces in your stool and experiencing a mix of formed and loose stools, can be indicative of several factors. Firstly, the presence of undigested food in your stool may suggest that your digestive system is having difficulty breaking down certain components of your diet. This can occur for various reasons, including insufficient digestive enzymes, rapid transit time through the intestines, or an underlying sensitivity to specific foods.

Additionally, the bubbles you observed in your stool could indicate the presence of gas, which is often produced when food is fermented in the intestines. This is common with high-fiber diets or when consuming foods that some individuals may find difficult to digest. If you have been consuming more tea recently, it's worth noting that caffeine can also stimulate the digestive system and may lead to increased bowel movements or diarrhea in some people.

Regarding your concerns about potential signs of colorectal cancer, it’s important to consider your overall health history. If you have no family history of early-onset colorectal cancer and previous examinations (like colonoscopy) have shown no significant issues, the likelihood of cancer is lower. However, persistent changes in bowel habits, especially if accompanied by blood in the stool, should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

The changes in your bowel habits, from having a bowel movement every three days to once a day, can be considered normal, especially if you have improved your diet and routine. Regular bowel movements can indicate a healthier digestive system, provided that the stool consistency remains within the normal range (not too hard or too loose).

In terms of dietary recommendations, it may be beneficial to focus on a balanced diet that includes adequate fiber from both soluble and insoluble sources. Soluble fiber, found in foods like oats and fruits, can help regulate bowel movements, while insoluble fiber, found in whole grains and vegetables, adds bulk to the stool. Additionally, staying well-hydrated is crucial for maintaining healthy digestion.

If you continue to experience digestive issues, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how it affects your bowel movements. This can help identify any specific triggers. Furthermore, consulting with a gastroenterologist or a registered dietitian may provide more personalized insights and recommendations tailored to your digestive health.

In summary, while tomato scrambled eggs are not inherently problematic, individual responses to food can vary significantly. Monitoring your symptoms, maintaining a balanced diet, and seeking professional guidance when necessary can help you manage your digestive health effectively.

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