Drinking and Digestive Drama: What's Happening Inside You?

Alcohol doesn't just cause a headache or dry mouth the next day. It can also lead to urgent bathroom trips, a problem sometimes called "booze butt. " Doctors say alcohol can irritate the digestive tract, change gut bacteria, and mess with how the intestines absorb water. Dr. Leybelis Padilla, a gut expert, explains that alcohol can make stools loose. It speeds up digestion, so there's less time for water to be absorbed. This can result in watery stools. Dr. Jason Korenblit, another gut specialist, adds that alcohol affects every part of the gut. It can worsen heartburn, increase stomach acid, and make the gut barrier weaker.Not everyone has digestive issues after drinking. Factors like how much and how fast you drink matter. People with certain digestive conditions or genetic traits may be more sensitive. Some drinks, like mixed drinks, wine, and beer, are more likely to cause problems. They often contain sugars or sugar alcohols that can worsen diarrhea. Beer and sparkling drinks can cause bloating and heartburn due to carbonation. To reduce digestive issues, doctors suggest eating before drinking, limiting intake, staying hydrated, and not mixing alcohol with caffeine. They also advise caution when taking certain medications with alcohol. While these tips can help, there's no guaranteed way to prevent all symptoms. If symptoms last more than a few days or are severe, it's important to seek medical attention.