Red meat is a staple food in many American homes, but for some people, red meat can cause adverse reactions, such as diarrhea, stomach pain and cramping. If you notice that every time you eat red meat you develop diarrhea, you need to make an appointment with your health care provider. Diarrhea that develops after a single instance of eating red meat may be related to food poisoning. Avoid all red meat products until you can be seen by a medical professional.
Meat Allergy
If you are allergic to red meat, you will develop diarrhea every time you consume even a small amount of the meat. According to ABC News, a meat allergy is unlike other food allergies in that the immune reaction is not to the proteins found in meat, but rather to the carbohydrates. Your body mistakes the carbohydrates as a dangerous substance and reacts by creating immunoglobulin E antibodies and histamine. These chemicals cause a reaction to occur throughout the body, leading to inflammation in soft tissue. Inflammation that forms in the digestive system will cause diarrhea, cramping, nausea and vomiting.
Meat Intolerance
Diarrhea can also be a sign of meat intolerance. You can be intolerant to any food if your intestines don't produce enough enzymes to break it down. Intolerance is different from a meat allergy because it does not involve the immune system. Meat intolerance occurs when you are unable to process the proteins found in red meat. Because the proteins remain undigested, it causes inflammation and irritation to the lining of your intestines. This will cause bloating, gas, cramping, stomach pain and diarrhea within a few hours of consuming red meat.
Food Poisoning
Anytime you develop diarrhea accompanied with excessive vomiting and stomach cramps, you need to talk with your doctor about food poisoning. If you have food poisoning from eating red meat, you will develop symptoms within four to six hours after consuming the infected meat. Food poisoning occurs when you eat red meat that is contaminated with infectious organisms, such as bacteria, toxins, parasites or viruses. The most effective treatment for food poisoning is dietary modification, rest and increased liquid intake.
Consideration
Occasional bouts of diarrhea are normal. Chronic diarrhea may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as Crohn's disease or irritable bowel syndrome. If you notice blood in your vomit or stool, call your doctor immediately as this may be a sign of a more serious condition.
