Many people withirritable bowel syndrome(IBS) often experience these symptoms associated with a strong gastrocolic reflex.

A more active gastrocolic reflex in infants is normal.

However, symptoms of an overactive gastrocolic reflex are more noticeable.

Woman with abdominal discomfort after eating

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These symptoms can vary from person to person as the gastrocolic reflex stimulates the GI tract.

Causes

The exact causes of a strong or overactive gastrocolic reflex are unknown.

These include:

What Is IBS?

Treatment includes medications and lifestyle changes.

Eating smaller meals and avoiding meals high in fat carbohydrates may also help.

As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.

If dietary modifications alone are not enough to ease symptoms, treatment for overactive gastrocolic reflex may include medication.

Commonly prescribed medications include antispasmodics, tricyclic antidepressants, andselective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Needing to have a bowel movement after eating does not usually warrant a visit to your healthcare provider.

If you are over age 45 and have this reflex, see a healthcare provider.

They may be able to help identify a cause for your heightened gastrocolic reflex.

This makes room for more food within the digestive tract.

Some people, including those with certain medical conditions such as IBS, may have an overactive gastrocolic reflex.

Modifying your diet and possibly taking medications may help reduce symptoms of an exaggerated gastrocolic reflex.

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