@jackiem95 I went through the exact thing, not often constipation, just the soft, messy stools. After trying basically everything with no success I suddenly noticed that the problem was worse on days when I ate much dairy — non-aged cheese, yogurt, etc. I cut back on those foods and the problem is as close to being solved as it will ever be I think. My stools are still soft but manageable now most of the time. I do occasionally have a problem when I have not eaten anything with lactose, bit it’s not a daily thing.
So, I guess I am now lactose intolerant. I hate that. I have other dietary restrictions but this is by far the worst. I now use provolone as a substitute for mozzarella in pasta dishes and pizza and have discovered that it really elevates the taste of those things. I don’t think it would work well in a caprese salad though.
I have found real dairy lactose free yogurt, cream cheese, and half and half in Whole Foods.
Try cutting out foods with lactose, you may be surprised. Good luck with it. If you discover anything else please let me know, I am still struggling too.
JK

Thanks, JK. Actually on my Low FODMAP Diet for IBS I have already eliminated lactose—along with gluten, fructose, etc. etc.

Regarding fiber and Metamucil- I had started with that, had gas issues and GI told me to try Citrucel- different fiber- that doesn’t cause gas like Metamucil does. It has been fine.
Regarding lactose intolerance- I would use Lactaid milk, cottage cheese and ice cream but ignore the fact that I reacted to pizza and other foods and cakes with dairy. Recently I started carrying the lactose enzyme tablets - could eat dairy products without the gas bloat.

Hi everybody,

I thought you might like to view this video about FODMAPs, celiac disease, IBS:
– A Map for the FODMAP Diet https://connect.mayoclinic.org/page/gastroenterology-and-gi-surgery/newsfeed-post/a-map-for-the-fodmap-diet/

Follow the "Gastroenterology & GI Surgery Page" on Connect, https://connect.mayoclinic.org/page/gastroenterology-and-gi-surgery/ where you can browse through newsfeed posts from Mayo Clinic experts, learn about clinical trials and up-to-date research, and find resources for all your gastroenterology needs.

I have similar uncontrollable soft stool & hemroids..what a worrisome embarrassing mess..afraid to eat fruit & veggies. Thinking of taking imodium with each meal. Help

@sljm2012
Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect!
Have you discussed this with a gastroenterologist?
Are you able to pin down foods that could cause soft stools?
Lactose intolerance can cause it as well as gluten sensitivity and others.
Do you have a problem with stool leaking?

I had all the symptoms of the original poster @jackiem95 and doctor said Benefiber is the fiber for all those symptoms. Absolutely cures the problems you discuss. It comes in powder but gummies as well. Also, get a bidet!!! It’s a must as you get older but good for any age. There are many on Amazon that can be added to the toilet. You have to have some flexibility to install it yourself, but shouldn’t cost much as it’s easy for a handyman to do.

I use flushable wipes to clean up. My problem is I have what appears to be coffee grounds in my stool!! Not sure what that's all about. Had food allergy testing and am pretty much allergic to everything! My stools aren't mushy and am regular. Also take magnesium citrate before bed and that does cause morning bm.

Friend had similar problems; anemia requiring infusions & bowel issues. Suggested reduce/gluten..your thoughts. Please

Miralax will do this. It's great (well, for me) at treating CIC, but yeah it has a softening effect. Seems like a trade off between that, or constipation with hard, infrequent stools. Stimulant laxatives like Dulcolax will also do this.

I'm sticking with the Miralax. Now I also love fruit, all kinds of fruit, and eat them everyday, and a fair amount of vegetables/salad. I'm just not willing to give those up.

So I stock up on TP. And that's TMI for now!