A doctor on TikTok explained that feeling the need to use the restroom immediately after eating is common and linked to the gastrocolic reflex. He stated, “When you eat and you feel like you have to use the restroom right after, this is something called the gastrocolic reflex.”

According to VeryWell Health, the gastrocolic reflex is a normal process where your body stimulates the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract to make room for new food. Dr. Salhab elaborates, “Your stomach stretches, sending signals to your brain, which then signals your colon to contract.” He clarified, “What’s coming out isn’t the food you just ate but old digested food and water.”

For individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), this reflex can be more intense. Cleveland Clinic explains that IBS symptoms include abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, gas, and bloating. Dr. Salhab noted, “Some people experience severe cramping or diarrhea because of the powerful contractions in their colon.”To manage these symptoms, Dr. Salhab recommends avoiding certain triggers such as carbonated drinks, alcohol, citrus foods, dairy, and fried or fatty foods.