Is your stomach constantly gurgling, bubbling or making loud rumbling noises? Perhaps you’re also experiencing diarrhoea, bloating or an urgent need to rush to the toilet.

Although stomach noises are a normal part of digestion, persistent gurgling accompanied by diarrhoea can sometimes indicate an underlying digestive problem.

There are several possible explanations. Some are temporary, such as a stomach bug or food poisoning, while others may be linked to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or food intolerances.

Understanding what is causing your symptoms is important, particularly if they keep returning.

In this article, we look at 12 possible causes of stomach gurgling and diarrhoea, explain why these symptoms often occur together and discuss when further investigation may be necessary.

Why Is My Stomach Gurgling and I Have Diarrhoea?

Stomach gurgling and diarrhoea often occur together because of changes in how food, gas and fluid move through your intestines.

The medical term for these digestive noises is borborygmi. They are produced when muscles in the stomach and intestines contract, pushing food, liquid and gas through the digestive tract.

Although we commonly describe these sounds as coming from the stomach, many actually originate in the small or large intestine.

According to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, intestinal noises are a normal part of digestion. They can become more noticeable when the intestines contain increased amounts of gas or fluid.

During diarrhoea, changes in intestinal movement and increased fluid in the bowel may make these sounds louder.

However, when stomach gurgling is accompanied by frequent loose stools, abdominal pain or bloating, it may be worth investigating whether an underlying digestive condition is responsible.

12 Causes of Stomach Gurgling and Diarrhoea

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome, commonly known as IBS, is one of the possible explanations for recurring stomach gurgling, bloating and diarrhoea.

IBS is a disorder of gut-brain interaction, meaning that changes in how the brain and intestines communicate can affect bowel movements and sensitivity within the digestive system.

People with diarrhoea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) frequently experience loose stools, abdominal discomfort and an urgent need to use the toilet, particularly after eating.

Other common symptoms include:

• Excessive stomach rumbling and gurgling
• Abdominal cramps or pain
• Bloating and trapped wind
• Diarrhoea, sometimes alternating with constipation
• A feeling that the bowels have not emptied completely
• Symptoms that become worse after meals

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), IBS symptoms may be influenced by several factors, including changes in intestinal movement, gut sensitivity and communication between the brain and digestive tract.

Certain foods can also trigger symptoms. For example, fermentable carbohydrates known as FODMAPs may increase gas production and draw additional water into the bowel.

Stress and anxiety can make IBS symptoms worse, although they are not the only factors involved.

IBS does not cause the intestinal damage associated with inflammatory bowel disease. However, because other conditions can produce similar symptoms, persistent diarrhoea should be properly assessed rather than automatically attributed to IBS.

2. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO, occurs when excessive numbers of bacteria are present in the small intestine.

Normally, the small intestine contains fewer bacteria than the large intestine. When bacteria become overgrown, they may ferment carbohydrates before these have been fully digested and absorbed.

This fermentation produces gases, including hydrogen, which can contribute to bloating, increased intestinal noises and changes in bowel movements.

Common symptoms associated with SIBO include:

• Loud stomach gurgling and bubbling
• Bloating, particularly after meals
• Excessive wind
• Abdominal discomfort
• Diarrhoea or loose stools
• A feeling of fullness after eating

Some people notice that their symptoms become worse after eating carbohydrate-rich foods, particularly those containing fermentable sugars.

SIBO may be associated with diarrhoea, especially where increased hydrogen production is present. In contrast, intestinal methanogen overgrowth (IMO), involving methane-producing microorganisms, is more commonly associated with constipation.

How is SIBO diagnosed?

Hydrogen and methane breath tests are sometimes used to investigate suspected SIBO.

These involve drinking a solution containing glucose or lactulose and collecting breath samples over several hours to measure changes in gas production.

Breath tests have limitations and are not suitable for everyone. Results should always be interpreted alongside symptoms and medical history.

You can learn more about SIBO symptoms, testing and treatment or find out how a SIBO breath test works.

3. Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, sometimes called a stomach bug or stomach flu, is an infection of the digestive system that commonly causes sudden diarrhoea, stomach rumbling and abdominal cramps.

It is one of the most frequent explanations for stomach gurgling that begins suddenly, particularly when accompanied by nausea or vomiting.

Gastroenteritis can be caused by several different microorganisms, including:

• Viruses such as norovirus and rotavirus
• Bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacter and certain strains of E. coli
• You can test for these infections using a gut pathogens test

According to the NIDDK, viral gastroenteritis can cause watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and sometimes fever.

Infections can interfere with the normal absorption of fluids and may increase fluid secretion into the intestines.

As additional fluid moves through the bowel, it can produce the bubbling and gurgling noises often associated with diarrhoea.

Other symptoms may include:

• Sudden watery diarrhoea
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• General weakness or tiredness

Most cases of viral gastroenteritis improve without specific treatment. According to the NHS, diarrhoea caused by a stomach bug usually settles within five to seven days.

The main concern is dehydration, particularly when diarrhoea is frequent or accompanied by vomiting.

Drinking fluids regularly and using an oral rehydration solution when necessary can help replace lost water and electrolytes.
You can test for parasitic infections with a gut pathogens test

4. Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is another common reason for sudden stomach gurgling, abdominal cramps and diarrhoea.

It develops after consuming food or water contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites or toxins.

Common infectious causes include Salmonella, Campylobacter, norovirus and certain strains of E. coli.

According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms may begin within hours or several days after eating contaminated food, depending on the microorganism involved.

In addition to loud stomach noises and diarrhoea, food poisoning may cause:

• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle aches

Diarrhoea occurs when infection or toxins interfere with normal intestinal function, increasing the movement of fluid into the bowel or reducing its absorption.

Most cases improve without antibiotics, although some infections may require medical investigation and treatment.

If you experience bloody diarrhoea, severe abdominal pain, signs of dehydration or persistent symptoms, seek medical advice.

5. Lactose Intolerance

Does your stomach start gurgling after drinking milk, eating ice cream or having a creamy meal?

Lactose intolerance could be responsible.

Lactose is a natural sugar found in milk and dairy products. To digest it properly, your small intestine produces an enzyme called lactase.

If your body does not produce enough lactase, some lactose passes through the small intestine without being fully digested.

When it reaches the large intestine, bacteria ferment it, producing gas. Undigested lactose can also draw extra water into the bowel, contributing to loose stools and diarrhoea.

Common symptoms include:

• Stomach rumbling and bubbling
• Bloating
• Excessive wind
• Abdominal cramps
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea

Symptoms can develop within minutes or several hours after consuming foods containing lactose.

The severity of symptoms often depends on how much lactose has been consumed and how much lactase the body produces.

Lactose intolerance is different from a milk allergy, which involves the immune system.

A hydrogen breath test may help investigate lactose malabsorption, although the results should be considered alongside your symptoms and medical history.

Medical reference: NHS – Lactose Intolerance.

6. Gut Dysbiosis

Your digestive system contains trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi. Together, they form what is known as the gut microbiome.

Many of these microorganisms play an important role in digestion, helping to break down certain carbohydrates and produce substances that support intestinal health.

The term gut dysbiosis describes changes in the composition or function of this microbial community.

These changes may occur following:

• Antibiotic treatment
• Gastrointestinal infections
• Significant changes in diet
• Certain medications
• Underlying digestive conditions

Research has identified associations between changes in the gut microbiome and digestive conditions such as IBS.

One possible explanation is that changes in bacterial fermentation can affect gas production, contributing to bloating, excessive wind and intestinal noises.

However, the relationship between the microbiome and diarrhoea is complex.

Not everyone with changes in their gut bacteria experiences symptoms, and dysbiosis is not a single, clearly defined medical diagnosis.

You can read more about gut dysbiosis, symptoms and testing.

7. Coeliac Disease

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.

This reaction damages the lining of the small intestine, interfering with its ability to absorb nutrients properly.

One consequence can be persistent diarrhoea, often accompanied by bloating, abdominal discomfort and increased intestinal noises.

Other possible symptoms include:

• Frequent loose stools
• Excessive wind
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Iron deficiency
• Nutritional deficiencies

Some people with coeliac disease experience symptoms that are almost identical to IBS, which is why testing for the condition is important when investigating ongoing digestive problems.

According to NICE guidance, people with unexplained persistent gastrointestinal symptoms should be considered for coeliac disease testing.

Should you stop eating gluten if you have symptoms?

No. If you suspect coeliac disease, you should continue eating gluten until appropriate medical testing has been completed.

Removing gluten before testing can reduce antibody levels and make the results less reliable.

Medical reference: NHS – Coeliac Disease.

8. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, refers mainly to two chronic inflammatory conditions: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Unlike IBS, these conditions cause inflammation and damage within the digestive tract.

Inflammation can interfere with the normal absorption of water and electrolytes, contributing to diarrhoea and an increased urgency to open the bowels.

Other symptoms may include:

• Persistent or recurring diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Reduced appetite
• Diarrhoea during the night

Although Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis share several symptoms, they affect the digestive tract differently.

Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, although it commonly involves the small intestine and colon.

Inflammation may occur in separate areas, with healthy tissue between the affected sections.

Symptoms often include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue and weight loss. Some people also experience blood in their stools.

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine, including the rectum.

Unlike Crohn’s disease, inflammation typically extends continuously from the rectum through the affected part of the colon.

Common symptoms include diarrhoea, blood or mucus in the stool, abdominal cramps and an urgent need to use the toilet.

Both conditions require medical investigation and treatment.

A stool test called faecal calprotectin is often used to help identify intestinal inflammation and determine whether further investigation for IBD may be necessary.

However, calprotectin alone cannot confirm or completely exclude IBD.

Medical reference: NHS – Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

9. Bile Acid Diarrhoea

Bile acid diarrhoea, also known as bile acid malabsorption, is an important but sometimes overlooked cause of persistent watery diarrhoea.

Bile acids are produced by the liver and released into the small intestine to help digest fats.

Normally, most bile acids are reabsorbed towards the end of the small intestine and returned to the liver.

However, when too many bile acids reach the large intestine, they can stimulate the secretion of water and electrolytes, leading to loose or watery stools.

People with bile acid diarrhoea may experience:

• Frequent watery diarrhoea
• Sudden urgency to open the bowels
• Diarrhoea shortly after meals
• Abdominal cramps
• Bloating
• Increased stomach rumbling

Bile acid diarrhoea sometimes develops after gallbladder removal or in people with conditions affecting the final section of the small intestine.

However, it can also occur without an obvious underlying cause.

One important point is that bile acid diarrhoea can be mistaken for diarrhoea-predominant IBS.

The British Society of Gastroenterology recommends considering bile acid diarrhoea when investigating persistent diarrhoea, including in people previously thought to have IBS-D.

In the UK, a SeHCAT scan may be used to investigate bile acid diarrhoea. Certain blood tests can also be useful, depending on availability.

Identifying this condition is important because specific treatments, including bile acid-binding medications, may help control symptoms.

10. Microscopic Colitis

Microscopic colitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the large intestine and is another potential cause of persistent watery diarrhoea.

It is particularly important because its symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for IBS.

Unlike some other inflammatory bowel conditions, the lining of the colon often looks normal during a colonoscopy.

Inflammation is usually only visible when small tissue samples, called biopsies, are examined under a microscope.

The main symptom is ongoing, watery diarrhoea, although people may also experience:

• A sudden need to use the toilet
• Abdominal cramps
• Bloating
• Diarrhoea during the night
• Occasionally, unexplained weight loss

Microscopic colitis is more commonly diagnosed in older adults, although it can occur at other ages.

Some medications, including certain anti-inflammatory drugs and acid-suppressing medicines, have been associated with the condition.

The diagnosis usually requires a colonoscopy with biopsies, even when the bowel lining appears normal.

This is one reason why persistent watery diarrhoea should be investigated rather than automatically attributed to IBS or food intolerance.

11. Medications and Supplements

Sometimes, stomach gurgling and diarrhoea are caused by medications or supplements rather than an underlying digestive condition.

Certain products can increase intestinal movement, draw additional water into the bowel or alter the balance of microorganisms in the digestive system.

Common examples include:

• Antibiotics
• Magnesium supplements, particularly magnesium citrate and oxide
• Metformin, used in diabetes treatment
• Certain laxatives
• Some acid-suppressing medications
• Sugar-free sweets containing sorbitol or other sugar alcohols

Antibiotics may cause diarrhoea by altering the normal gut microbiome.

They can also increase the risk of an intestinal infection called Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile), particularly in people who have recently received antibiotic treatment.

If you develop frequent or persistent diarrhoea during or after taking antibiotics, you should contact your GP.

Magnesium supplements can also have a laxative effect, especially at higher doses.

If your symptoms began after starting a new medication or supplement, it is worth reviewing this with your GP or pharmacist.

Do not stop taking prescribed medication without medical advice.

12. Stress and Anxiety

Have you ever noticed your stomach rumbling before an important meeting, interview or stressful event?

The connection between the brain and digestive system helps explain why stress and anxiety can affect bowel movements.

Your brain and intestines communicate through what is called the gut-brain axis.

During periods of stress, changes in hormones, nerve signals and intestinal sensitivity can affect how quickly food and waste move through the digestive tract.

For some people, this may trigger an urgent need to use the toilet or cause loose stools.

Other symptoms can include:

• Increased stomach rumbling
• Abdominal cramps
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• A feeling of urgency

People with IBS may be particularly sensitive to these changes because the communication between the brain and digestive system can already be altered.

However, although stress can contribute to digestive symptoms, persistent diarrhoea should not automatically be attributed to anxiety.

Other medical causes should be considered, particularly if symptoms are new, worsening or accompanied by weight loss or blood in the stool.

Why Does My Stomach Gurgle and I Get Diarrhoea After Eating?

If your stomach starts making loud noises shortly after eating and you suddenly need to use the toilet, there may be several explanations.

One of the most common is an increased gastrocolic reflex.

The gastrocolic reflex is a normal digestive response that occurs when food enters your stomach. It sends signals to the large intestine, encouraging it to contract and move stool towards the rectum.

For some people, particularly those with IBS, this reflex can be unusually strong, resulting in abdominal cramps, gurgling and an urgent need to open the bowels.

It does not mean that the food you have just eaten has already travelled through your entire digestive system.

Other possible explanations for diarrhoea after meals include food intolerances, bile acid diarrhoea, SIBO and certain gastrointestinal infections.

If this happens regularly, keeping a food and symptom diary may help identify patterns worth discussing with your healthcare professional.

What Can Help Stomach Gurgling and Diarrhoea?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

If your symptoms are caused by a temporary stomach bug, the main priority is staying hydrated while your digestive system recovers.

If diarrhoea is persistent or keeps returning, identifying the reason is more important than repeatedly restricting foods or taking supplements.

A few measures may help:

• Stay hydrated. Replace fluids lost through diarrhoea and consider oral rehydration solutions when needed.
• Eat according to your tolerance. Simple, familiar meals may be easier to manage during an acute episode.
• Keep a food and symptom diary. This may help identify whether symptoms consistently occur after certain foods or at particular times.
• Review medications and supplements. Some products can contribute to loose stools.
• Avoid unnecessary food restrictions. Removing multiple food groups without a clear reason can increase the risk of nutritional deficiencies.
• Seek medical advice for persistent symptoms. Conditions such as coeliac disease, bile acid diarrhoea and inflammatory bowel disease require appropriate investigation.

If food intolerance is suspected, dietary changes should ideally be based on your symptoms and any relevant medical investigations.

Can SIBO Cause Stomach Gurgling and Diarrhoea?

Yes. SIBO can contribute to stomach gurgling, excessive gas, bloating and diarrhoea.

When bacteria ferment carbohydrates in the small intestine, the gases produced can increase abdominal distension and digestive noises.

However, these symptoms are not unique to SIBO.

IBS, lactose intolerance, coeliac disease and bile acid diarrhoea may produce very similar symptoms.

For this reason, it is important to consider your complete symptom history and exclude other relevant conditions before deciding whether SIBO testing is appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is stomach gurgling and diarrhoea a sign of IBS?

It can be. IBS, particularly diarrhoea-predominant IBS, may cause stomach rumbling, abdominal pain, bloating and frequent loose stools.

However, other digestive conditions can cause similar symptoms, so recurrent diarrhoea should be properly assessed.

Why is my stomach constantly bubbling?

Stomach bubbling is usually caused by the movement of gas and fluid through your digestive system.

It may become more noticeable after eating, when you are hungry or when you have increased intestinal gas.

If bubbling occurs alongside persistent diarrhoea or abdominal pain, an underlying digestive condition may be responsible.

Why do I get diarrhoea immediately after eating?

One explanation is an exaggerated gastrocolic reflex, which causes the large intestine to contract in response to food entering the stomach.

Other possible causes include IBS, food intolerances and bile acid diarrhoea.

Can stress cause stomach gurgling and loose stools?

Yes. Stress can influence intestinal movement and sensitivity through the gut-brain axis.

This may cause stomach rumbling, abdominal cramps and diarrhoea, particularly in people with IBS.

However, persistent symptoms should not automatically be assumed to be stress-related.

Should I have a stool test if I have persistent diarrhoea?

Stool testing may be useful, depending on your symptoms and medical history.

Your GP may recommend tests for intestinal infections, inflammation or other suspected conditions. If these are negative you can consider a comprehensive stool test,

Can SIBO cause diarrhoea every day?

SIBO can be associated with frequent or persistent diarrhoea in some people.

Getting Help With Persistent Digestive Symptoms

If you regularly experience stomach gurgling, diarrhoea, bloating or abdominal discomfort, identifying the underlying cause is an important first step towards managing your symptoms.

We provide consultations at our sister clinic ibs-solutions.co.uk for adults experiencing persistent digestive problems, including IBS and suspected SIBO.

Author – Victoria Tyler BSc Hons MBANT
Victoria Tyler owns and runs two busy clinics : Nutrition and Vitality and the IBS and Gut Disorder Clinic.
Nutrition and Vitality, along with the IBS and Gut Disorder Clinic, were founded with the goal of helping patients alleviate IBS symptoms by uncovering and addressing the root causes of their digestive issues.
As a Registered Nutritional Therapist, Victoria holds a BSc (Hons) in Nutritional Therapy and has trained with the Institute of Functional Medicine. She is also accredited by BANT and CNHC.
Before transitioning into health, Victoria earned a degree in Economics and an MBA, working with corporations including Canon and Vodafone. However, her own health challenges led her to pursue a career in Nutritional Therapy.
With a passion for learning, Victoria is committed to staying at the forefront of Functional Medicine. She helps patients manage IBS and other digestive disorders, including SIBO, Candida, and IBD, by identifying and addressing their root causes.
Victoria strongly believes that every symptom has an underlying cause, and there is always a solution to every health condition. To learn more, or to see patient reviews, visit Victoria’s profile on Google.

References and Further Reading

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Symptoms and Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
• NIDDK. Symptoms and Causes of Viral Gastroenteritis.
• NHS. Diarrhoea and Vomiting.
• NHS. Lactose Intolerance.
• NICE. Coeliac Disease: Recognition, Assessment and Management (NG20).
• British Society of Gastroenterology. Guidelines for the Investigation of Chronic Diarrhoea in Adults. Gut, 2018.
• NHS. Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
• Mayo Clinic. Food Poisoning: Symptoms and Causes.