Why does feces sometimes float instead of sinking?

Far from being something rare and insignificant, this phenomenon can have several causes and meanings that are worth knowing.

What is normal: floating or sinking?

Normally, human feces tend to sink in the toilet. This is due to their composition: water, bacteria, undigested fiber, fat, and bodily waste. An event that disrupts this balance can cause them to float.

Common Causes of Floating Stools

Large amount of gas

If your stool contains gas bubbles, it’s probably floating. This could be due to eating quickly, drinking carbonated drinks, or eating gassy foods like legumes, broccoli, or cabbage.

A diet rich in fiber

Excessive fiber consumption can promote intestinal fermentation, which increases gas production. Fiber also retains water, which can change the consistency of stool.

Fat malabsorption (steatorrhea)

When the digestive system doesn’t digest fat well, it can remain in the stool, making it lighter and more buoyant. This may be accompanied by stools that are lighter in color, brighter in color, or have a stronger odor.

Intestinal infections or dysbiosis

Certain disorders or infections of the intestinal flora can affect fermentation and digestion, leading to excessive gas production which causes bloating.