Diarrhea from consuming food additives is a result of food intolerance, a common condition that is typically confused with an allergy, according to MayoClinic.com. If you notice that after you eat certain processed foods, you develop diarrhea, discontinue eating those foods and talk with your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Food intolerances do not have a cure, but can be managed through diet and lifestyle modifications.
Food Intolerance
Food intolerance occurs when there is a malfunction in the digestive system with certain foods. For some people, food intolerance can be related to an enzyme deficiency -- the body cannot properly breakdown certain sugars and proteins in foods. Other people may not be able to process a food additive, causing inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract. Sulfites are a common food additive causing diarrhea. These are commonly found in wine, dried fruit and canned goods. The additive is used to preserve the food, but can lead to digestive complications and asthma in some people, according to MayoClinic.com.
Symptoms
Food intolerance causes various symptoms related to the digestive tract. Diarrhea is a primary symptom that may be accompanied by bloating, cramping, gas, vomiting and nausea, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. Symptoms will develop within 30 minutes after eating the food and may continue for a few hours. The most effective way to prevent symptoms of food intolerance is to identify with your doctor the additives that trigger symptoms and then avoid consuming them.
Treatment
Diarrhea is primarily treated through diet and rest, according to MedlinePlus. Avoid consuming large meals while you have diarrhea. Increase the amount of liquid you're consuming to prevent dehydration. Eat bland, easy-to-digest foods, such as rice, cooked carrots, bananas, white bread, baked chicken and roasted potatoes. Avoid fatty foods, foods high in fiber, spicy foods and diary products. Don't consume any food or beverage that contains alcohol or caffeine, which can worsen your condition.
Considerations
Dehydration is a concern when you have diarrhea. Once you ingest a food additive your body cannot tolerate, your digestive tract will attempt to empty itself as quickly as possible. Undigested food and water will be expelled from your system, depleting your body of water. Dehydration can lead to hospitalization and death if not treated, according to MedlinePlus. Symptoms include thirst, dry mouth, dry skin, dark-colored urine and lightheadedness.
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