Cutting meat from your diet can bring surprising changes to your digestion, especially in terms of bowel movements.
If you’re considering going vegetarian or vegan, here are some key changes you might experience.
Softer stool consistency
When you eat more fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, your stool becomes softer.
Fiber absorbs water, which adds bulk to your poop and makes it easier to pass.
More frequent bowel movements
Meat is low in fiber and can slow digestion. When you cut it out and replace it with fiber-rich foods, you may find yourself going to the bathroom more often.
Studies suggest that vegetarians poop more frequently than meat-eaters.
Less straining
Struggling to go to the bathroom? Eliminating meat may help.
High-fat, low-fiber foods like red meat can make stools harder to pass, whereas fiber makes bowel movements smoother and more comfortable.
Less greasy stool
If your poop used to look greasy or oily, you might notice a change.
High-fat foods, like meat, can be harder to digest, sometimes leading to fatty stool. A lower-fat, plant-based diet may help reduce this issue.
Increased gas and bloating
Switching to a high-fiber diet can cause more gas, especially in the beginning.
Fiber isn’t digested by the body; instead, gut bacteria break it down, which produces gas. This should improve as your body adjusts.
Less heartburn
Meat, particularly fatty cuts, has been linked to acid reflux and heartburn.
Reducing meat intake may lower stomach acid production, leading to fewer digestive discomforts.
Feeling hungrier
Meat is rich in protein, which helps keep you full for longer.
If you don’t replace meat with other protein-rich foods like beans, tofu, or nuts, you might find yourself feeling hungry more often.
Changes in poop color
A diet high in leafy greens and colorful vegetables may change your poop color.
Dark green, orange, or even reddish stools can be a result of consuming more plant-based foods.
Adjustments in digestion time
Without meat, digestion might speed up, leading to more regular bowel movements.
However, depending on your fiber intake, digestion could also slow down, especially if you aren’t drinking enough water.
The importance of hydration
When increasing fiber intake, drinking more water is crucial. Fiber needs water to move smoothly through the digestive system.
Without enough hydration, you might experience constipation despite eating fiber-rich foods.
This article is based on information from Health.com.