Can Chickpea Pasta Cause Diarrhea? What Causes It and Foods That Help

What is Chickpea Pasta?

Chickpea pasta, sometimes called garbanzo bean pasta, is a type of pasta made using chickpea flour instead of traditional wheat flour. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are part of the legume family. Chickpea flour is made by grinding dried chickpeas into a fine flour.

Some key benefits of chickpea pasta include:

• Higher protein - Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein, providing about 12 grams per 1/2 cup cooked. Chickpea pasta can have double the amount of protein compared to traditional wheat pasta.
• More fiber - Chickpeas are high in fiber, with about 12 grams per 1/2 cup cooked. The fiber content is maintained in chickpea pasta.
• Gluten-free - For those avoiding gluten, chickpea pasta is naturally gluten-free since it's made from chickpeas instead of wheat.
• Low glycemic index - Chickpeas have a low glycemic index, meaning they are slowly digested and absorbed, resulting in a more gradual rise in blood sugar. This also applies to chickpea pasta.

Additionally, chickpea pasta is a good source of minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium. The higher protein and fiber paired with the lower glycemic index make chickpea pasta a more nutrient-dense alternative to traditional pasta.

Can Eating Chickpea Pasta Cause Diarrhea?

Chickpea pasta is generally well-tolerated and not likely to cause diarrhea or other digestive issues for most people. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• FODMAPs - Chickpeas contain FODMAPs, types of carbohydrates that may not be digested well. Those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may experience gas, bloating, or diarrhea from eating high FODMAP foods.
• High fiber content - While fiber is beneficial, dramatically increasing your fiber intake can cause temporary digestive symptoms like diarrhea.
• Beans and legumes - Some people's digestive systems react more strongly to bean- and legume-based foods, potentially causing gas or diarrhea.
• Food intolerances - For those with a chickpea allergy or sensitivity, chickpea pasta may trigger diarrhea or other symptoms.

Overall, most people can incorporate chickpea pasta into their diet without issues. But those prone to diarrhea or with known digestive issues related to beans, legumes, or high fiber foods may want to take extra precautions when trying chickpea pasta.

Tips to Prevent Diarrhea from Chickpea Pasta

Here are some tips to help prevent diarrhea or digestive upset when eating chickpea pasta:

• Start with a small serving size, around 1/2 cup dry, and increase slowly over time.
• Make sure to cook the pasta al dente and be careful not to overcook.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated when consuming high fiber foods.
• Eat chickpea pasta as part of a balanced meal with other carbs, protein, and fats.
• Introduce chickpea pasta gradually as one of several weekly meals rather than eating it daily.
• Choose chickpea pasta made with a blend of chickpea and wheat flour to reduce fiber content.
• Opt for gluten-free chickpea pasta if you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
• Avoid eating chickpea pasta on an empty stomach or late at night.
• Pay attention to how your body reacts and discontinue use if you experience diarrhea or other negative symptoms.

Starting slowly and drinking enough fluids are key to minimizing any digestive discomfort. But if diarrhea persists for more than 1-2 days, consult your doctor.

What Causes Diarrhea in General?

While chickpea pasta itself may not directly lead to diarrhea, it's helpful to understand what causes diarrhea in general:

• Bacterial or viral infections - Pathogens disrupt the intestines' ability to properly absorb fluids and electrolytes.
• Food intolerances - The body lacks enzymes to properly digest certain foods, leading to diarrhea.
• Medications - Antibiotics, antacids, and heart medications are common culprits.
• Digestive disorders - Conditions like IBS, Crohn's disease, and celiac disease can trigger diarrhea episodes.
• Food poisoning - Consuming contaminated food or drink causes severe diarrhea.
• Lactose intolerance - The inability to digest lactose sugars in dairy leads to diarrhea.
• Excessive alcohol - Drinking substantial amounts of alcohol can induce diarrhea.
• Stress and anxiety - The gut is sensitive to emotions, and stress can stimulate diarrhea.

In some cases, identifying and avoiding triggers like certain medications, foods, or stressors may help prevent diarrhea. Proper hydration and treatment are key to recovering from diarrhea caused by infections or underlying disorders.

When to See a Doctor About Diarrhea

Occasional diarrhea that resolves in 24-48 hours is usually not a cause for concern. However, see a doctor if you experience:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days
• Fever over 101 F (38 C)
• Signs of dehydration like dizziness, excessive thirst, or dark urine
• Abdominal pain or bloody stool
• Diarrhea following recent antibiotic use
• Diarrhea after travel to a developing country

Severe dehydration, bloody stool, and persistent fever indicate a more serious cause requiring medical care. Older adults and those with weakened immune systems should also consult a doctor sooner with diarrhea.

Foods That Can Help Alleviate Diarrhea

If you do develop diarrhea, focus on hydration along with eating the BRAT diet until symptoms resolve:

• Bananas
• Rice
• Applesauce
• Toast

These bland, starchy foods can help settle the digestive tract. You may also want to avoid dairy, greasy foods, caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and sugary drinks which can make diarrhea worse.

Be sure to continue eating as tolerated to replenish calories and nutrients lost from diarrhea. Foods like bananas, rice, chicken, and yogurt provide potassium to balance fluid losses.

When Can You Eat Chickpea Pasta Again After Diarrhea?

Once your diarrhea symptoms fully resolve, you can consider reintroducing chickpea pasta. Go slowly and start with a small serving, around 1/4 cup dry. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente.

Pay attention to how your body reacts over the next 1-2 days. If chickpea pasta is well-tolerated after the first few small servings, you can gradually increase the portion size. But if diarrhea returns, discontinue eating chickpea pasta for now.

If you experience diarrhea again only when eating chickpea pasta, you may have an underlying intolerance or sensitivity. See your doctor

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.