Does Bacon Make You Poop? The Truth About This Beloved Breakfast Meat

As a hearty breakfast lover I enjoy sizzling bacon along with my eggs and toast. But I’ve wondered – does eating bacon actually make you poop?

While bacon grease may slide right through you, the impact of bacon itself on bowel movements isn’t so clear cut. Let’s explore how this beloved pork product affects your digestive system.

In this article, we’ll cover:

Why people think bacon causes pooping
The scientific perspective on bacon and pooping
Other high-fat foods that can stimulate bowels

How to prevent bacon-related constipation
Healthier ways to promote regular bowel movements

So does bacon really make you poop? Grab some paper towels and let’s find out!

Why Do People Think Bacon Makes You Poop?

There are a few reasons why bacon has a reputation for inducing pooping

First, the sizzling grease left behind after cooking bacon contains a good amount of fat. Eating fatty foods stimulates digestion and can loosen stools.

Second, the salty taste of bacon prompts you to drink more fluids. Staying hydrated is key for soft bowel movements that are easier to pass.

Finally, bacon’s smoky, robust flavor energizes your senses. Eating first thing in the morning may encourage that initial “call of nature”.

So in various ways, bacon can seem to jumpstart your bowels. But is this really due to bacon itself? Let’s dig deeper.

What Does Science Say About Bacon and Pooping?

According to scientific research, bacon on its own has little laxative effect.

Most studies show bacon does not cause diarrhea. In fact, it’s more likely to cause constipation due to its high saturated fat content.

A 2015 study linked eating more than 30 grams of saturated fat daily with constipation. Just 2-3 pieces of bacon can provide up to 15 grams of saturated fat.

However, the grease leftover after cooking bacon can stimulate bowels. Pan drippings contain rendered pork fat that acts as a mild laxative.

Yet the oft-cited “bacon blowout” has more to do with what you eat with it than the bacon itself. Eggs, coffee, toast and other typical breakfast sides help move things along.

So while bacon grease has a laxative effect, bacon itself does not directly make you poop. The reaction has more to do with accompanying foods and fluids.

Do Other High-Fat Foods Make You Poop?

While healthy fats are important in your diet, eating large amounts of fatty foods can stimulate bowel movements.

Foods high in saturated fats, like red meat, processed meat, cheese and fried items tend to be harder to digest.

Your body secretes additional fluid when breaking down high-fat foods, loosening stools in the process.

High-fat dairy products also contain lactose, a sugar that can cause diarrhea in lactose intolerant people.

On the other hand, unsaturated fats like olive oil, avocado and salmon promote gut health and can relieve constipation when eaten in moderation.

If you indulge in high-fat treats, pair them with high-fiber veggies to support healthy digestion. And stay hydrated to keep things moving smoothly.

Does Eating Bacon Cause Constipation?

While greasy bacon drippings can have a laxative effect, the bacon itself may promote constipation.

Bacon is low in fiber, which helps add bulk and moisture to stools. It’s also high in saturated fat, which as mentioned earlier, can contribute to constipation.

Processing methods like curing, smoking and salting used to preserve bacon can exacerbate its constipating effects.

To help counteract this, make sure to eat bacon in moderation as part of a fiber-rich diet. Stay hydrated and active to keep your digestive system running optimally.

Healthier Ways to Support Regularity

While greasy bacon may seem like an easy way to poop, it shouldn’t replace healthier strategies for staying regular. Here are better approaches:

Eat more fiber – aim for 25-30 grams daily from veggies, fruits, whole grains and legumes. Soluble fiber from oatmeal, nuts and seeds can be especially helpful.

Stay hydrated – drink water and fluids regularly, about 2 liters daily. Prune juice adds fluids plus a natural laxative effect.
Exercise daily – physical activity helps stimulate your digestive tract. Aim for at least 30 minutes per day.
Reduce stress – high stress inhibits healthy bowel function. Try relaxing practices like yoga, meditation and deep breathing.

Listen to your body – don’t ignore the urge to poop. Holding it in leads to constipation.
Talk to your doctor – discuss remedies like probiotics, magnesium or stool softeners if constipation persists.

Adopting healthy bowel habits beats reaching for bacon every time you can’t poop. But for occasional constipation, a small amount of lean bacon along with high-fiber foods could help get things moving.

The Takeaway – Does Bacon Make You Poop?

While many people claim bacon makes them poop, the science doesn’t completely back this up.

In truth, bacon itself has little direct laxative effect. But the grease left over after cooking does contain fat that can stimulate your bowels.

On the flip side, bacon may also cause constipation due to its high saturated fat and sodium content.

For long term digestive health, emphasize fiber, fluid and exercise over bacon. But enjoying a few crispy strips alongside a balanced breakfast once in awhile probably won’t hurt!

So while bacon might not have a direct poop-inducing power, eating it now and then as part of an overall healthy diet can be A-OK. Just don’t rely on it as an everyday bowel stimulant.

With some mindful preparation methods and portion control, you can still enjoy the satisfying flavors of bacon without throwing your digestive system out of whack! Now who’s ready for a delicious bacon and veggie omelet?

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3137939/

https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/

How Food Turns Into Poop

FAQ

Will bacon help you poop?

Not only do processed meats like hot dogs, bacon, and deli meat contain no fiber, they’re also high in fat and sodium—both of which can slow digestion. So although a hot dog or bologna sandwich might make a quick, convenient kid’s lunch, try opting for higher-fiber proteins instead.

What causes rapid bowel movement after eating?

Needing to poop immediately after eating is typically due to an overactive gastrocolic reflux. This causes food to move through your colon more quickly. You may experience other symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea. Dietary changes may help reduce the effect of gastrocolic reflex.

What simple trick empties your bowels?

Lemon juice – a cleansing way to encourage bowel movements is to try taking a glass of water mixed with the juice of half a lemon before bed and when you wake up. You may want to drink with a straw as you could find your teeth becoming sensitive after a regular course of lemon water.

Is red meat bad for poop?

Read on to find out exactly which foods might be slowing your ability to go, and for more, don’t miss 16 Foods To Help You Poop Immediately. Red meat is often high in total fat, contains no fiber, and might be seasoned with salt. ” A diet high in red meat is associated with constipation. Animal foods like red meat lack fiber.

Can one eat bacon with diverticulosis?

You can eat bacon with diverticulosis, but it is not the most recommended. In a person with diverticulosis, it is recommended to consume foods with soluble fiber such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes.

Can high-fat meats cause constipation?

To ease constipation symptoms, it may help to avoid the following high-fat meats: Some people report having constipation after consuming cheese, milk, and other full-fat dairy products. This may be because dairy products can contain high amounts of saturated fat and low amounts of fiber.

What foods cause constipation?

When you’re constipated, highly processed foods, fast food, dairy products, and high-fat meats that are low in fiber but high in saturated fat, sodium, and sugar can worsen symptoms.