Lactose, Fructose, and Artificial Sweeteners
Some people do not do well with lactose. [6] Lactose is a type of sugar present in milk and other dairy products. It upsets the gut of lactose-intolerant people. Their bodies are unable to digest this sugar and it triggers uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Fructose is another sugar that causes digestive problems in some people and may trigger diarrhea. [7] Fructose is naturally present in fruits and honey and is often used as a sweetener in some drinks.
Artificial sweeteners like sorbitol and mannitol may also trigger diarrhea in some people. [8] These sweeteners are often used in chewing gum and sugar-free products.