When fish is digested, trimethylamine (TMA) is produced. TMA is then metabolized by the enzyme flavin-containing monooxygenase 3 (FMO3). FMO3 breaks down TMA into Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), which is excreted in urine and sweat. Some people have a higher amount of the FMO3 enzyme, which means they can break down TMA more quickly. This results in less noticeable effects, such as fishy breath and sweat.
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Why does my diarrhea smell like rotten fish?
There are a few possible reasons why your diarrhea may smell like rotten fish. It could be due to something you ate, an infection, or a more serious underlying medical condition. When food decomposes in the intestine, it can cause a foul odor. Infections of the gastrointestinal tract often lead to diarrhea and can also cause a bad smell. If you have persistent diarrhea that smells like fish, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any potentially serious causes.
Why does my stool smells like fish?
If you have trimethylaminuria (TMAU), your body can’t break down a chemical called trimethylamine. Trimethylamine comes from the food we eat and is normally broken down by an enzyme in the liver. This process gives us our natural body odor. But if you have TMAU, the trimethylamine builds up in your body and is released in your sweat, urine, and breath, giving you a strong fishy smell. There’s currently no cure for TMAU, but there are things that can help reduce the fishy odor.
For example, avoiding foods that contain high levels of trimethylamine, such as eggs, liver, certain types of seafood, and some beans. In addition, there are treatments available that can help mask the odor. If you think you may have TMAU, see your doctor to get a diagnosis.
What does it mean if your diarrhea smells like fish?
If your diarrhea smells like fish, it is likely due to cholera toxin (CT) present in the intestinal lumen. This results in increased cAMP levels in intestinal epithelial cells and pumping of chloride (and therefore sodium and water) into the intestinal lumen, leading to secretory diarrhea. The flushing of the entire intestinal tract can cause stool that resembles “rice water” with a fishy odor.
What bacteria causes foul-smelling stool?
Giardiasis is an infection caused by a single-celled parasite called Giardia. This microorganism lives in the intestine of infected people and animals and is passed in the stool. The parasite can cause explosive, watery, greasy, foul-smelling stools, bloating, nausea, pain, gas, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
People with giardiasis may have no symptoms at all or only mild ones that come and go. When present, symptoms usually begin 1 to 2 weeks after becoming infected and can last for several weeks or months if left untreated. Giardiasis is diagnosed through a stool sample test. Treatment involves taking medication to kill the parasite.
What does the smell of your poop indicate?
The smell of your poop can indicate changes in your diet. However, it may also be a sign of a disease or disorder. For example, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, and intestinal infections can all cause foul-smelling stools. If you notice a change in the odor of your stool, it’s important to speak with a doctor to rule out any potential health problems.
Why is diarrhea so foul-smelling?
There could be a few reasons why your diarrhea smells particularly foul. Certain foods, such as eggs, garlic, legumes, and dairy, are hard to digest and can cause gas. In turn, this makes your stool extra pungent.
Other times, the problem may be from an abundance of bad bacteria in your gut, a viral infection, or Clostridioides difficile—a bacterium that causes diarrhea. So if you notice your bowel movements smelling worse than usual, it’s worth checking in with your doctor to rule out any underlying health issues.
