Why Does Pork Give Me Diarrhea?

You sizzle up a few slices of bacon for breakfast or dig into a juicy pork chop for dinner But a few hours later, you’re glued to the toilet with horrible diarrhea If this scenario sounds familiar, you’re not alone. While pork can be a tasty source of protein, it leads to diarrhea and other digestive issues for many folks.

Understanding the potential causes behind “pork butt” can empower you to prevent or manage these unpleasant symptoms. This allows you to occasionally indulge in the other white meat without paying the potty price.

A Pork Allergy Could Be to Blame

An allergy to pork, also called pork-cat syndrome, affects around 1 in 1,000 people. With this rare condition, the body mistakenly identifies pork as a threat and launches an allergic reaction when exposed.

Pork allergy is strongly linked to cat allergies. The primary cat allergen, cat serum albumin, closely resembles a protein found in pork called porcine serum albumin. In those with cat allergies, the immune system gets confused between the two proteins and reacts to pork as well.

Diarrhea, along with:

• Hives or itchy rash
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Runny nose

are common allergy symptoms In severe cases, pork can even trigger anaphylaxis – a systemic, life-threatening reaction requiring epinephrine and urgent medical care

If you have a known cat allergy, see an allergist about testing for a pork allergy. The only way to prevent an allergic reaction is strict avoidance of all pork products.

A Pork Intolerance May Be the Culprit

While a true pork allergy is fairly rare, some experts estimate up to 20% of adults have an intolerance to pork. With food intolerances, the immune system is not involved. Instead, the gut lacks sufficient enzymes or receptors to properly digest components in the food.

The most common symptoms of a pork intolerance include:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Bloating and gas
• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Headaches

Symptoms arise hours after eating pork and tend to be dose-dependent – meaning larger servings trigger worse symptoms. Keeping a detailed food and symptom journal can help identify pork as a trigger.

Undercooked Pork Can Also Cause Diarrhea

Trichinosis, a parasitic infection transmitted through undercooked pork, causes diarrhea in over 2,500 Americans annually.

The Trichinella roundworm thrives in raw or undercooked pork. When ingested, the parasite attaches to the intestinal wall and releases larvae that penetrate the gut lining. This leads to symptoms like:

• Severe diarrhea
• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Fever and chills
• Muscle pain and weakness

Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F kills any parasites present. Use a meat thermometer to verify pork reaches this temp before serving. Freezing pork less than 6 inches thick for 3 weeks at 5°F or below also kills parasites.

Tips to Prevent Pork Problems

If pork frequently leaves you glued to the porcelain throne, take these steps to enjoy it without misery:

• Get tested for a pork allergy – See an allergist for skin or blood testing to diagnose a true pork allergy requiring complete avoidance.

• Try an elimination diet – Cut out all pork for 2-4 weeks, then slowly reintroduce it while monitoring symptoms and tolerance.

• Opt for leaner cuts – The high fat content in pork shoulder or ribs may be harder to digest. Try lean pork tenderloin or chops.

• Portion control – Stick to just 2-3 oz of pork at a time, even if not allergic. Large servings overwhelm digestion.

• Cook thoroughly – Use a meat thermometer and cook until pork reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F.

• Take digestive enzymes – Over-the-counter enzyme supplements can help break down pork fat, protein, and carbs for easier digestion.

• Try pulled chicken or jackfruit – Swap out pork for smoked chicken or jackfruit to replicate pulled pork if you can’t tolerate any pork.

When to See a Doctor

Occasional pork-induced diarrhea may be merely unpleasant. However, if you experience any of the following, seek medical advice:

• Difficulty breathing after pork exposure – could signal a severe allergy
• Bloody stool or black, tarry stool – could indicate intestinal bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain – may signify issues like pancreatitis or gallstones
• Diarrhea lasting over 2 days – can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
• High fever, muscle pains, weakness – potential signs of trichinosis

Severe diarrhea further exacerbates dehydration and nutritional deficiencies. Seek medical care if symptoms do not improve within 48 hours.

The Takeaway

It’s depressing when something as delicious as pork leaves you glued to the toilet. Understanding what’s behind your reaction allows you to take steps to prevent pork-related problems. While some may need to avoid it altogether, many can manage symptoms through strategic cooking methods, portion sizes, and digestive aids. Arm yourself with knowledge so you don’t have to say bye to the bacon.