What causes stools to float. How can diet affect stool buoyancy. When should you be concerned about floating stools. What are the symptoms of malabsorption. How are floating stools diagnosed and treated.

The Science Behind Floating Stools: Causes and Implications

Floating stools are a common occurrence that often raise questions about digestive health. While usually harmless, they can sometimes indicate underlying issues. Understanding the science behind this phenomenon can help ease concerns and identify when medical attention may be necessary.

Typically, stools float due to two main factors:

• Poor nutrient absorption (malabsorption)
• Excessive gas (flatulence) in the stool

To comprehend why stools float, it’s essential to understand the digestive process. Food moves from the stomach to the small intestine, where nutrient absorption occurs. Any unabsorbed material then passes into the colon, where water is extracted. The remaining waste is eliminated as feces.

The Role of Diet in Stool Buoyancy

Can dietary changes cause floating stools? Indeed, alterations in your diet can significantly impact stool consistency and buoyancy. Consuming foods that increase gas production in the intestines can lead to floating stools. Examples include:

• High-fiber foods
• Dairy products (especially for lactose-intolerant individuals)
• Artificial sweeteners
• Carbonated beverages

These foods can increase gas content in the stool, making it less dense and more likely to float. However, it’s important to note that dietary causes of floating stools are generally harmless and often resolve on their own.

Malabsorption and Floating Stools: Connecting the Dots

When does floating stool indicate a more serious condition? While often benign, persistent floating stools, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, may signal malabsorption issues. Malabsorption occurs when the body fails to properly absorb nutrients from food.

Symptoms of malabsorption may include:

• Floating, greasy stools with a foul odor
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal pain or bloating
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue

Various conditions can lead to malabsorption, including:

1. Celiac disease
2. Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
3. Chronic pancreatitis
4. Cystic fibrosis
5. Lactose intolerance

Gastrointestinal Infections and Their Impact on Stool Buoyancy

How do gastrointestinal infections affect stool characteristics? Infections of the digestive tract can alter stool consistency and buoyancy. These infections may be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

During a gastrointestinal infection, several factors can contribute to floating stools:

• Increased gas production due to bacterial overgrowth
• Altered nutrient absorption
• Changes in intestinal motility

While most gastrointestinal infections are self-limiting and resolve within a few days, persistent symptoms or severe cases may require medical attention.

Chronic Pancreatitis and Fat Malabsorption: A Closer Look

How does chronic pancreatitis affect stool composition? Chronic pancreatitis, a long-term inflammation of the pancreas, can lead to significant changes in stool characteristics. The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by producing enzymes that break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

In chronic pancreatitis, the pancreas may not produce sufficient enzymes, leading to:

• Increased fat content in stools (steatorrhea)
• Floating, greasy stools
• Foul-smelling bowel movements
• Nutrient deficiencies due to malabsorption

While floating stools alone are not typically caused by increased fat content, the combination of floating, greasy, and foul-smelling stools may indicate fat malabsorption associated with chronic pancreatitis or other conditions affecting pancreatic function.

Home Care and Dietary Modifications for Floating Stools

How can one address floating stools through diet and lifestyle changes? In many cases, simple home care strategies and dietary modifications can help alleviate floating stools:

1. Identify trigger foods: Keep a food diary to pinpoint items that may be causing increased gas or digestive issues.
2. Gradually increase fiber intake: This can help regulate bowel movements and reduce gas production.
3. Stay hydrated: Proper hydration supports healthy digestion and stool consistency.
4. Eat slowly and mindfully: This can reduce the amount of air swallowed during meals, potentially decreasing gas in the digestive tract.
5. Consider probiotics: These beneficial bacteria may help improve digestive health and reduce gas production.

If floating stools persist despite these measures or are accompanied by concerning symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags and Warning Signs

Under what circumstances should one consult a doctor about floating stools? While often harmless, certain symptoms accompanying floating stools warrant medical attention:

• Persistent changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blood in the stool
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping
• Chronic diarrhea
• Fever accompanying digestive symptoms
• Signs of dehydration (e.g., excessive thirst, dark urine, dizziness)

These symptoms may indicate more serious underlying conditions and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider promptly.

Diagnostic Approaches and Treatment Options for Persistent Floating Stools

How do healthcare providers diagnose and treat the causes of floating stools? When consulting a medical professional about persistent floating stools, you can expect a comprehensive evaluation:

Diagnostic Process

1. Medical history review: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, diet, and any recent changes in bowel habits.
2. Physical examination: This may include abdominal palpation and assessment of overall health status.
3. Stool sample analysis: To check for infections, parasites, or signs of malabsorption.
4. Blood tests: These can help identify nutritional deficiencies or signs of inflammation.
5. Imaging studies: In some cases, CT scans or ultrasounds may be recommended to evaluate the digestive organs.
6. Endoscopic procedures: Upper endoscopy or colonoscopy may be performed to visualize the digestive tract directly.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment for floating stools depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Dietary modifications: Eliminating trigger foods or adjusting nutrient intake.
• Medications: Antibiotics for bacterial infections, enzyme supplements for pancreatic insufficiency, or anti-inflammatory drugs for certain conditions.
• Probiotics: To support digestive health and balance gut bacteria.
• Management of underlying conditions: For example, following a gluten-free diet for celiac disease or insulin therapy for diabetes.

In most cases, floating stools do not require specific treatment and will resolve on their own. However, addressing any underlying health issues is crucial for long-term digestive health and overall well-being.

The Impact of Floating Stools on Nutrient Absorption and Overall Health

How do floating stools affect the body’s ability to absorb nutrients? While occasional floating stools are generally not a cause for concern, persistent occurrences may signal issues with nutrient absorption. This can have far-reaching effects on overall health and well-being.

Potential Consequences of Malabsorption

• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
• Weakened immune system
• Fatigue and weakness
• Bone health issues
• Skin problems
• Cognitive difficulties

Proper nutrient absorption is crucial for maintaining various bodily functions. When malabsorption occurs, it can lead to a cascade of health issues affecting multiple organ systems. Therefore, addressing the underlying causes of persistent floating stools is essential for preserving overall health and preventing potential complications.

Monitoring Nutritional Status

For individuals experiencing chronic floating stools, especially those with diagnosed malabsorption disorders, regular monitoring of nutritional status may be necessary. This can involve:

1. Periodic blood tests to check for vitamin and mineral levels
2. Bone density scans to assess bone health
3. Regular weight checks and body composition analysis
4. Consultation with a registered dietitian for personalized nutrition plans

By staying vigilant about nutritional status and addressing any deficiencies promptly, individuals can mitigate the potential long-term health impacts of malabsorption-related floating stools.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Modifications for Optimal Digestive Health

How can one maintain healthy digestion and reduce the occurrence of floating stools? While some causes of floating stools are beyond our control, there are several lifestyle modifications and preventive measures that can promote optimal digestive health:

Dietary Considerations

• Balanced diet: Consume a variety of nutrients from whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Fiber intake: Gradually increase fiber consumption to promote regular bowel movements and support gut health.
• Hydration: Drink adequate water throughout the day to support digestion and maintain proper stool consistency.
• Mindful eating: Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly to aid digestion and reduce air swallowing.

Lifestyle Habits

1. Regular exercise: Physical activity can help stimulate digestion and promote regular bowel movements.
2. Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively impact digestive health. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
3. Adequate sleep: Prioritize quality sleep, as it plays a crucial role in overall health, including digestive function.
4. Limit alcohol and caffeine: Excessive consumption can irritate the digestive tract and alter stool consistency.

Preventive Health Measures

• Regular check-ups: Schedule routine health examinations to catch and address potential digestive issues early.
• Vaccinations: Stay up-to-date on recommended vaccinations, including those that protect against certain gastrointestinal infections.
• Food safety: Practice proper food handling and preparation to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses that can affect digestive health.

By incorporating these preventive measures and lifestyle modifications, individuals can support their digestive health and potentially reduce the occurrence of floating stools and other gastrointestinal concerns.

The Future of Digestive Health: Emerging Research and Treatments

What advancements are on the horizon for understanding and treating digestive disorders? The field of gastroenterology is rapidly evolving, with new research shedding light on the complexities of digestive health and potential treatments for various conditions that can cause floating stools.

Microbiome Research

One of the most exciting areas of research is the study of the gut microbiome. Scientists are uncovering the intricate relationships between gut bacteria and various aspects of health, including digestion, nutrient absorption, and even mental health. This research may lead to:

• Personalized probiotic treatments
• Targeted dietary interventions based on individual microbiome profiles
• Novel therapies for digestive disorders that address microbial imbalances

Advanced Diagnostic Tools

Emerging technologies are enhancing our ability to diagnose and monitor digestive health:

1. AI-powered imaging analysis for more accurate and efficient endoscopic procedures
2. Capsule endoscopy improvements for less invasive visualization of the entire digestive tract
3. Molecular testing advancements for more precise identification of pathogens and genetic markers related to digestive disorders

Innovative Treatments

Research is ongoing into new treatments for various digestive conditions that can cause floating stools:

• Gene therapy for inherited digestive disorders
• Stem cell treatments for inflammatory bowel diseases
• Targeted immunotherapies for autoimmune digestive conditions
• Novel enzyme replacement therapies for pancreatic insufficiency

As research progresses, our understanding of digestive health continues to expand, offering hope for more effective treatments and management strategies for conditions associated with floating stools and other digestive symptoms.

In conclusion, while floating stools are often benign and temporary, they can sometimes signal underlying health issues that require attention. By understanding the causes, recognizing warning signs, and adopting healthy lifestyle practices, individuals can better manage their digestive health and overall well-being. As medical science advances, we can look forward to even more sophisticated approaches to diagnosing and treating digestive disorders, ultimately improving quality of life for those affected by these conditions.

Stools – floating Information | Mount Sinai

Floating stools

Stools that float are most often due to poor absorption of nutrients (malabsorption) or too much gas (flatulence).

Food passes from the stomach into the small intestine. In the small intestine all nutrient absorption occurs. Whatever has not been absorbed by the small intestine passes into the colon. In the colon most of the water is absorbed from the food residue. The residue is then eliminated from the body as feces.

Considerations

Most causes of floating stools are harmless. In most cases, floating stools will go away without treatment.

Floating stools alone are not a sign of an illness or other health problem.

Causes

Many things can cause floating stools. Most of the time, floating stools are due to what you eat. A change in your diet may cause an increase in gas. Increased gas in the stool allows it to float.

Floating stools may also happen if you have a gastrointestinal infection.

Floating, greasy stools that are foul smelling may be due to severe malabsorption, particularly if you are losing weight. Malabsorption means your body is not properly absorbing nutrients.

Most floating stools are not caused by an increase in the fat content of the stool. However, in some conditions, such as long-term (chronic) pancreatitis, the fat content is increased.

Home Care

If a change in diet has caused floating stools or other health problems, try to find which food is to blame. Avoiding this food may be helpful.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Tell your health care provider if you have changes in your stools or bowel movements. Contact your provider right away if you have bloody stools with weight loss, dizziness, and fever.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history and symptoms, such as:

• When did you first notice the floating stools?
• Does it happen all the time or from time to time?
• What is your usual diet?
• Does a change in your diet change your stools?
• Do you have other symptoms?
• Are the stools foul smelling?
• Are the stools an abnormal color (such as pale or clay-colored stools)?

A stool sample may be needed. Blood tests may be done. In most cases, however, these tests will not be needed.

Treatment depends on the specific diagnosis.

Höegenauer C, Hammer HF. Maldigestion and malabsorption. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 104.

Schiller LR, Sellin JH. Diarrhea. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 16.

Semrad CE. Approach to the patient with diarrhea and malabsorption. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 131.

Last reviewed on: 5/4/2022

Reviewed by: Michael M. Phillips, MD, Emeritus Professor of Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Why Do Stools Float Sometimes?

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Are Floating Stools?
• Why Would Stools Float?
• When To See a Doctor
• Treatment
• Prevention

Stools, or poop, usually sink to the bottom of the toilet, but sometimes, they can float. If your poop never sinks to the bottom of the toilet bowl, you may have too much gas in your intestines.‌

Normally, floating stools aren’t a cause for concern. Read on to learn more about why stools float, what floating stools say about your health, and more.

When stools float, it means the poop stays on the surface of the toilet water instead of sinking. Normally, poop sinks to the bottom of the toilet bowl.‌

Floating poop doesn’t mean you’re sick, but it can be a symptom of various conditions.

There are several reasons why poop floats and never seems to sink.

Too much gas. You may have too much gas in you due to your diet, which can make your stools float. 

Some people think that floating poop is caused by fat, but it’s usually caused by gas. Research has indicated that once floating stools were degassed, they weighed the same as sinking poop. This indicates that gas was responsible for making floating stools float, rather than fat inside the poop.

Gas in your digestive system is usually caused when you swallow air or eat certain types of foods that break down into gas. 

If you eat a high-fiber diet with a lot of vegetables and fruits, you may get floating stools because digesting high-fiber foods releases more air during digestion. This leads to air or gas being trapped in the stool, making it float in the toilet bowl.

Medical conditions. If your poop floats, there’s a slight chance you have steatorrhea, which means you have too much fat in your poop. Steatorrhea indicates you can’t absorb fat properly, and it can be a symptom of the following conditions:

• Celiac disease
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) due to cystic fibrosis and chronic pancreatitis
• Diseases affecting small intestines such as tropical sprue, Whipple disease, and lymphoma
• Bile acid deficiency

You may also have the following conditions if you have floating poop:

• Gastrointestinal infection
• Malabsorption, which means you’re not absorbing nutrients as well as you should

Floating stools don’t necessarily mean you have an underlying health condition. To determine if a health condition is causing this, you should be on the lookout for other indicators. 

If your floating stools are smelly, sticky, or bloody, for example, you should see a doctor. Your doctor will give you a proper diagnosis and walk you through the process of understanding your condition if you have one. Here’s a closer look at what might cause these symptoms. ‌

Smelly and sticky stools. Smelly and sticky stools are typically a symptom of nutrient malabsorption. This means your body isn’t able to completely absorb and digest nutrients from your gastrointestinal tract due to damage to the small intestine, not having enough pancreatic enzymes, liver disease, HIV/AIDs, or other conditions.

If your floating stools are smelly and appear sticky, you should contact your doctor.

Blood in your stool. If your floating poop is accompanied by blood, it could be caused by:

• Bleeding in your anus or rectum
• Cancer of your digestive system
• Blood vessel abnormalities
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease such as Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis
• Ulcers in the stomach or small intestine
• Polyps
• Diverticulitis ‌

If you find blood in your stools, you should see a doctor. If you’re experiencing weight loss, dizziness, or fever in addition to finding blood in your stools, you should talk to your doctor immediately. You should also get emergency medical help if there is a lot of blood in your poop, or if it is maroon or black and tarry.‌

Your doctor will be able to determine what is the exact cause of bloody poop through imaging tests and physical exams.

When you visit your doctor, they will likely ask you several questions about your medical history and your current health to determine why you have floating stools. They will also ask you about your diet and how long you’ve been having this issue so they can make any needed diet and medication recommendations.

Unless there is a medical condition causing you to have floating poops, there is no need to do anything to treat or prevent them.

Monitor your pooping habits. Always be aware of any changes to your stool and bowel movements. If you’re suddenly pooping more or less, or your poop looks very different, you should report these changes to your doctor. Your doctor will find it easier to diagnose any health conditions you may have if you keep an organized record about your pooping habits.

Changing your diet. Sometimes, preventing floating poop can be as easy as changing your diet, since floating poop can be caused by eating foods that cause you to have more gas.

You should avoid the following foods if you have a problem with too much gas:

• Hard candy
• Fizzy or carbonated drinks
• Gum‌

Keep a food diary so you can keep track of what you eat and narrow down what foods are giving you gas. You should bring this diary to your doctor so you can talk to them about how you can change your diet.

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How can our faeces help in early diagnosis?

We all poop, and even princesses don’t do it with violets. We’ll tell you what to pay attention to!

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Health

Health problems

What do these symptoms mean?

For some, the process of defecation is uncomfortable and unpleasant, associated with pain or shame. For others, it’s just part of the “cycle of life.” Babies inevitably go through the exciting process of getting to know the contents of their diapers.

In our culture, going to the bathroom “big” is almost never discussed publicly. But there is no need to be ashamed of this process – we all sit on a faience throne from time to time. Shameful inattention can even be harmful – our feces can “tell” about what is happening in the body and how it can be helped.

What is feces made of?

Mainly from undigested food, proteins, bacteria, minerals and other substances passing through the intestines. Every person is unique when it comes to feces, but there are a few common signs in shape, size, and odor that may indicate an unhealthy or unhealthy gastrointestinal tract.

What should be a normal stool?

Healthy feces can be as varied and unique as the people who produced them. But there are several general criteria by which you can evaluate the results of your digestive creativity:

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Color

The natural color for faeces is brown. Bilirubin is responsible for it – a pigment compound formed during the breakdown of red blood cells in the body.

Shape

We’re not cube-pooping wombats, so our bowels assume the more traditional, familiar shapes of feces—a log or a sausage. However, as we will learn later, various other options are possible that indicate problems.

Size

Feces should not come out in small “goat” balls (we will also talk about this later). The “standard” length is 5-6 centimeters, which is due to the ease of passage of feces through the intestines.

Consistency

Here the normal range is quite wide – normal feces can be both harder and softer. Deviations in one direction or another may indicate problems with digestion or an imbalance of fiber in the diet.

Duration of the process

If a person sits in the toilet for a long time, we believe that he is most likely pooping (or perhaps trying to hide from mumbling children for at least ten minutes). But for a healthy body, the process of defecation takes no longer than a couple of minutes. Therefore, if you spend more time in the toilet, this is an occasion to think about it.

What is the shape of feces and what does it indicate?

1. Goat balls

Hard small lumps that come out with difficulty usually indicate constipation. The frequent appearance of such a consistency is a reason to reconsider your diet.

2. Fat Caterpillar

Feces may be sausage-shaped but hard and lumpy in texture. This is also a sign of constipation.

3. “Sausage”

Faeces not too hard, not too soft, with small cracks on the surface. Gold standard, well done! Continue in the same spirit.

4. “Snake”

Feces are soft, smooth and long, shaped like a snake. In general, this is a variant of the norm.

5. Jellyfish

Feces are small in size, like goat balls, but have a soft texture and a fairly distinct shape. Usually such feces indicate a lack of fiber in the diet, so it is worth sticking to vegetables and cereals.

6. “Vegetable puree”

Feces are “airy” and soft, with jagged edges. This type of stool is closer to diarrhea, so drink plenty of fluids.

7. “Blotography”

Feces are completely liquid, there are few or no solid particles at all. This is diarrhea, or, as the people say, diarrhea. Feces passed through the intestines too quickly and did not have time to form.

What can stool color indicate?

How important is color when it comes to poop? It turns out yes. It helps to understand what is happening inside the body.

The normal color of feces, as we have already said, are shades of brown. A small greenery is also not terrible and may not be a sign of a problem. The following colors of feces should attract your attention:

Black

Who among us has not observed black feces with mild horror after taking a blister of activated charcoal? Surely there are such people, but there are hardly too many of them in the Russian expanses. Other “safe” causes of black feces can be iron supplements, bismuth preparations, hematogen, and even licorice.

But if you haven’t used anything like this, immediately go to the doctor – the black color of the feces can be caused by digested blood, which means that somewhere in the upper gastrointestinal tract there is bleeding.

Green

Small greens, as we have already mentioned, are not terrible.

But if the stool is more green than brown, then you may have one of two reasons: either you eat too many greens, or the stool passes through the intestines too quickly. In the latter case, bilirubin simply does not have time to color the stool in the usual brown color.

Pale, whitish or clay-colored

A color that is too light may indicate a lack of bile. We need it for healthy digestion and is normally produced by the liver and gallbladder. If the stool is too light, you may have a clogged bile duct, so don’t put off going to the doctor.

Pale stools can also be a side effect of certain medications.

Red

Yes, it’s blood. Perhaps problems with hemorrhoids, possibly bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal tract (as we already know, the higher the source of bleeding, the more time the blood has to digest).

Well, or you ate beets. Or cranberries. Or tomatoes.

Yellow

Greasy, foul-smelling yellow feces may indicate too much fat that has not been digested. It may also be associated with malabsorption of nutrients (for example, celiac disease).

Is it true that feces do not sink, as in the well-known proverb?

Normally, feces should just sink. They begin to swim when the density decreases, which happens due to an increase in the amount of water or gases in the composition.

Another cause may be malabsorption, the malabsorption of nutrients in the small intestine. In this case, the “big swim” may be accompanied by mild constipation.

When can we talk about constipation?

It turns out that constipation is not only a situation of long “sessions in parliament”. From a medical point of view, you can talk about constipation if you have a bowel movement less than three times a week!

There can be many reasons: from a nervous breakdown to problems with the nerves in the pelvic area, from diabetes to pregnancy. We humans are gentle creatures, and a huge number of factors affect our digestion. Many animals “from nerves” also stop pooping first. Take the same cats – after moving or strong excitement, the poor animal may not go to the pot for 3-4 days.

But back to homo sapiens. If you suffer from constipation, try drinking more water and eating vegetables, fruits, and legumes. And don’t forget to move – at least walk. There is a good chance that the problem will be solved.

A not very physiological posture can make defecation difficult. Why this happens can be clearly seen in the extremely ironic commercial with the prince and the unicorn.

When should I see a doctor?

If stool problems persist for more than a couple of days, you should consult a doctor. Green stool or a strange shape happens to everyone from time to time, but recurrence is a sign of a problem.

Chronic constipation can cause bowel obstruction, and chronic diarrhea can make it difficult to absorb essential nutrients and lead to severe dehydration. These conditions can also be signs of more serious illnesses.

Signs of bleeding are a reason to see a doctor without delay.

Do you pay attention to the results of your labors in the toilet?

It may not be very pleasant to look at your feces, except for a glimpse, or think about such an indelicate toilet topic. But this, nevertheless, the quality of bowel movements and the color of urine is a quick, simple and completely free way to understand if everything is in order with our body.

Source

Should your stool float? What does it say if he doesn’t sink? · Medicine in Moscow · Catalog of Russian organizations

Intestinal health is reflected in the characteristics of the stool. Stool can also reflect the health of other body organs such as the stomach, pancreas, liver, and gallbladder. Stool characteristics that are used to determine the health of the intestines and other organs include stool consistency, frequency of bowel movements, and stool color and odor. In addition to these characteristics, feces can also be examined in a clinical laboratory to reveal more detailed information about the body’s health.

A feature of stool that can help distinguish health from illness is whether the stool floats or sinks. Under healthy conditions, stool sinks. Floating stools may indicate an underlying medical condition. However, this is not always the case. Not all cases of floating stool indicate an underlying medical condition. Other associated signs and symptoms must be taken into account before suggesting that disease may be present. If floating stools are not accompanied by any other symptoms, then there is usually no cause for immediate concern.

Why does the stool float?

Floating or sinking stool is determined by the density of the substance relative to the density of water. Stool floats when it is less dense than water. This is mainly due to the presence of gas or fat in the stool.

Feces are made up of various components. About 60-75% of stool composition is in the form of water. The remaining components of feces include undigested fiber (about 7.5%), intestinal bacteria (about 7.5%), inorganic components (up to 5%), fat (up to 5%), and a tiny fraction of protein (<1%). As can be seen from the composition, gases do not form any significant proportion of feces. Therefore, even a small increase in the proportion of gas in the stool is enough to reduce the density of the stool and cause it to float.

Floating stools may be caused by an underlying disorder when accompanied by other signs and symptoms. These associated signs and symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, changes in appetite, changes in stool texture, color, and odor.

Causes of floating stools

Gas in the intestines mainly comes from the action of bacteria in the colon. These colon bacteria produce gas as a by-product of their action on the food present in the intestine. Usually the population of these intestinal bacteria is controlled. However, under certain conditions, an increase in their number may occur. Alternatively, some conditions can cause incomplete digestion and absorption of food in the intestines. Both lead to excessive outgassing.

Gas in the stool also comes from the air that is swallowed while breathing, eating and drinking. Carbonated drinks are a source of gas in the intestines. The gas is also able to diffuse through the intestinal walls. It is released during the chemical breakdown process.

Diseases that cause floating feces are most often associated with disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Some of the common conditions that can lead to floating stools are:

Bowel infections

Infections of the intestines, whether caused by external pathogenic bacteria or internal intestinal bacteria, are the main source of gas in the intestines. As a rule, the growth of the local bacterial flora of the intestine is controlled. This is mainly achieved through the action of the intestinal immune system and competition with other microbial flora. Under abnormal conditions, an overgrowth of bacteria occurs. This results in increased gas production and floating stools.

Food intolerance

Food intolerance is caused by a lack of appropriate enzymes that metabolize certain food components. A common example is lactose intolerance, which is the result of a lack of the lactase enzyme. When a lactose intolerant person consumes milk and other dairy products, the lactose sugar in these products is not digested. Bacteria in the gut feed on undigested lactose sugar. This causes excessive gas production and floating stools.

Malabsorption syndromes

Malabsorption refers to conditions in which nutrients from digested food are not absorbed in the intestines. Intestinal gas production increases as colon bacteria attack food components remaining in the colon. Malabsorption can be caused by a variety of conditions such as intestinal inflammation, intestinal infections, sensitivities to certain foods, and alcoholism.

Diseases of the pancreas

The pancreas is an important player in the digestive process. Pancreatic enzymes enter the small intestine (duodenum) where they help in the digestion of various food components. Diseases that affect the pancreas can disrupt the synthesis and secretion of pancreatic enzymes. Without pancreatic enzymes, food in the intestines is not digested properly. Colon bacteria feed on undigested food and cause increased gas production. This excessive gas production contributes to the formation of floating stools.

Diseases of the gallbladder

The gallbladder secretes a fluid called bile into the intestines. Bile contains fatty emulsifiers that allow digestive enzymes to break down the fats present in food. When bile production or secretion is impaired (due to diseases such as gallbladder disease or surgical removal), fat is not digested properly. Colon bacteria feed on fat and increase in number. As a result, excessive gas production causes floating stools.

Short intestine

The entire length of the human intestine is involved in the digestion and absorption of various food components. When the length of the intestine shortens, it negatively affects digestion and absorption of food.