Egg sensitivity is a common food-related issue that can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea. If you enjoy eggs regularly, a short-term egg elimination diet can determine if eggs are the cause of persistent diarrhea.
What is Egg Sensitivity?
Egg sensitivity is a non-allergic reaction to egg proteins, typically found in the egg white (albumin). Unlike an egg allergy, which involves an immune system response, sensitivity is often related to difficulty digesting certain components of eggs. Symptoms can vary but may include bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
How Egg Sensitivity Causes Diarrhea
Diarrhea associated with egg sensitivity occurs when the digestive system is not strong enough to break down egg proteins. This can lead to:
- Inflammation: The gut lining may become irritated, resulting in loose stools.
- Malabsorption: Undigested egg proteins can disrupt nutrient absorption, leading to diarrhea.
- Gut microbiome imbalance: Egg sensitivity can be caused by a microbiome imbalance and can worsen it.
Identifying Egg Sensitivity
- Elimination diet: Strictly remove all eggs and egg ingredients from the diet for 1 week.
- Read labels: Mayonnaise, condiments, and baked goods are hidden sources of eggs.
- Journal your food & symptoms: Write down what you eat and how your bowels are working for that week.
Understanding Your Egg Sensitivity
If egg sensitivity is identified by the diarrhea going away:
- Avoid all eggs for 1 month: If diarrhea has resolved, then continue to stay strict for 1 month.
- Address gut microbiome: Probiotics, prebiotics, fiber and fermented foods may improve your chances of tolerating eggs again in the future.
- Experiment with small amounts of egg as an ingredient: After 1 month, you may be able to tolerate mayonnaise and baked goods without an issue.
- Experiment with straight eggs: If your microbiome has improved, then you may be able to tolerate eggs for breakfast occasionally. If you are able to eat eggs again, restrict them to once a week so the problem does not return.
If symptoms persist, investigate other causes
Persistent diarrhea may indicate other underlying conditions that require medical attention. Persistent diarrhea is both inconvenient and unhealthy. The body cannot absorb vitamins and minerals if food passes through too quickly.
