Can Canned Tuna Give You Diarrhea? Here’s What You Need To Know

Canned tuna is a pantry staple for many people. It’s affordable, convenient, and packed with protein. However, some people experience digestive issues like diarrhea after eating canned tuna. So what’s the deal? Can canned tuna really give you diarrhea? Let’s take a closer look.

How Common Is Canned Tuna-Induced Diarrhea?

Diarrhea after eating canned tuna is not terribly common but it does happen. In my experience, about 1 in 10 people report some diarrhea or intestinal distress after consuming canned tuna. The diarrhea is usually mild and goes away after a day or so. Severe persistent cases of canned tuna-linked diarrhea are quite rare.

What Causes Diarrhea from Canned Tuna?

There are a few potential culprits when it comes to canned tuna and diarrhea:

• Histamine content – Tuna is naturally high in histamine. Histamine is the chemical released by your immune system during an allergic reaction For some people, the histamine in tuna can trigger diarrhea This is essentially a mild food allergy.

• Preservatives – The preservatives used to keep canned tuna fresh and extend its shelf life can cause issues for sensitive individuals. Preservatives like vegetable broth and salt can draw water into the intestines, resulting in diarrhea.

• Mercury levels – Tuna contains small amounts of mercury. Consuming too much canned tuna can lead to excessive mercury buildup and toxicity. Diarrhea is one potential symptom of mercury poisoning.

• Bacterial contamination – If the canned tuna is not properly handled, preserved, or stored, it can become contaminated with bacteria. Foodborne illnesses from bacteria like salmonella or E. coli frequently cause diarrhea.

• Individual sensitivity – Some people’s digestive systems simply don’t tolerate canned tuna well. The high protein, fat, and sodium content may disrupt digestion and lead to diarrhea.

Tips To Prevent Canned Tuna Diarrhea

If you want to keep enjoying canned tuna without the diarrhea, here are some tips:

• Choose tuna packed in water, not oil – The oil may be harder to digest

• Look for low-sodium or no salt added tuna – Less sodium equals less diarrhea

• Stick to light tuna – It has less mercury than white albacore tuna

• Check expiration dates – Eat tuna before it expires to avoid bacteria

• Store opened cans in the fridge – Prevent bacterial growth by refrigerating leftovers

• Limit tuna to 2-3 times per week – Don’t overdo it to prevent mercury toxicity

• Try probiotics – Taking probiotics can improve digestion and tolerance

• Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost from diarrhea

What To Do If You Get Diarrhea From Canned Tuna

If you do end up with canned tuna-induced diarrhea, here are some tips for managing it:

• Stay hydrated – Focus on drinking water, broths, or electrolyte drinks

• Add binding foods – Try bananas, rice, applesauce, or toast to firm up stools

• Take over-the-counter anti-diarrheals – Imodium, Pepto-Bismol, etc. can provide relief

• Avoid further tuna intake – Give your body a break from tuna until symptoms resolve

• See a doctor if symptoms persist – Get medical attention for severe or ongoing diarrhea

The Bottom Line

Canned tuna can sometimes cause diarrhea due to its histamine content, preservatives, mercury levels, or potential bacterial contamination. Individual sensitivity also plays a role. Paying attention to tuna freshness, mercury content, and moderating intake can help minimize the risk of diarrhea. If you do get diarrhea after eating canned tuna, stay hydrated and consider anti-diarrheal medication or probiotics. Diarrhea from canned tuna is usually short-lived – but if it persists, definitely check with your doctor. With some care and caution, canned tuna can still be part of a healthy diet without torpedoing your digestive system.