Traditionally, chocolate has been viewed as a potential trigger for gut symptoms like pain, cramping, bloating, gas and diarrhea. This is because chocolate, particularly milk chocolate, contains a lot of sugar, including lactose, milk proteins and fat – all of which can cause symptoms in susceptible persons.
Chocolate actually slows down the digestive process and is among the worst culprits for causing constipation.
Chocolate, in addition to being a high source of antioxidants, is also thought to help protect the body. Chocolate, like other foods, may cause Irritable bowel syndrome in some people. Chocolate, as with any food, can have a negative impact on colon health.
Caffeine. Caffeine can increase diarrhea, another major symptom of IBS. High sources of caffeine include coffee, tea, cola drinks, chocolate and some over-the-counter pain relievers designed for headache relief — check labels carefully.
Sugar and caffeine, two of chocolate's most prominent ingredients, can both contribute to cramping and increase stool frequency in people with ulcerative colitis, especially during a flare-up.
Traditionally, chocolate has been viewed as a potential trigger for gut symptoms like pain, cramping, bloating, gas and diarrhea. This is because chocolate, particularly milk chocolate, contains a lot of sugar, including lactose, milk proteins and fat – all of which can cause symptoms in susceptible persons.
Alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods can irritate anyone's colon. So the problems can be worse if you have inflammatory bowel disease. Fat, sugar and fiber are all harder to digest. So you may need to stick to foods that are low in these categories or eat sources with higher contents in moderation.
Foods that commonly contribute to diarrhea and bowel incontinence are chocolate, dairy products, alcohol, and caffeine. Try eating less of these foods to see if it improves the consistency of your bowel movements.
When you're sick, “You want something that's easily digested,” Kim says. “Some people are affected by sugar levels when they are nauseous.” Chocolate, a sweet-tooth favorite, can be a culprit in many digestive problems, including heartburn and the more serious GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
More than half of patients with IBD believe their symptoms are induced or exacerbated by specific foods [13]. Commonly identified foods include fruit and vegetables, dairy products, spicy foods, processed foods, nuts and seeds, alcohol, and foods with a high fat content [14,15,16,17].
Infection, loss of blood supply in the colon, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and invasion of the colon wall with collagen or lymphocytic white blood cells are all possible causes of an inflamed colon.
Treatment often involves intravenous nutrition to allow the bowel to rest, which typically resolves the disease within one or two weeks.
Other symptoms that may arise after eating chocolate are diarrhea, indigestion, and bloating. These are due to a chocolate intolerance. Symptoms of an intolerance will subside on their own, but medication can help you feel better faster.
Dark chocolate: Half an ounce to no more than 3 ounces in a serving is considered to be low-FODMAPs. Milk chocolate and white chocolate: A half-ounce serving is considered low-FODMAP. At 1 ounce, the level of lactose increases to the point that it might cause you to have symptoms if you are lactose intolerant.
During acute attacks of diverticulitis, eat a low-fiber diet. Avoid foods that may contribute to nausea or pain, such as caffeine, spicy foods, chocolate, and milk products.
If you have a sweet tooth, you may be happy to know that eating dark chocolate is recommended for Crohn's disease. The active components of dark chocolate called flavonoids may be good for gut health and cardiovascular health.