Red licorice, a common confectionery, can sometimes lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea. Understanding the science behind this reaction involves examining the candy’s ingredients and how the body processes them. While not everyone experiences these effects, certain components within red licorice are recognized for their potential impact on the digestive system.
Ingredients That Can Affect Digestion
Despite its name, red licorice typically does not contain licorice root extract, which is found in traditional black licorice and has distinct properties. Instead, red licorice is primarily composed of sugar, corn syrup, wheat flour, artificial flavors, and artificial colors like Red 40. The significant amount of sugar, often ranging from 30 to 40 grams in a typical 2-ounce serving, is a primary factor in potential digestive issues.
Beyond the high sugar content, some varieties of red licorice, particularly those marketed as “sugar-free” or “reduced sugar,” may include sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, maltitol, or xylitol. These compounds are polyols, which are low-calorie sweeteners that the human digestive system does not fully absorb. The presence of these sugar alcohols in certain formulations can also contribute to digestive discomfort.
How These Ingredients Cause Diarrhea
The high concentration of sugar in red licorice can trigger an osmotic effect within the intestines. This means that unabsorbed sugar draws water into the intestinal lumen, increasing the fluid volume and accelerating the transit time of contents through the digestive tract. This influx of water and rapid movement can result in loose stools or diarrhea. Individuals with underlying sensitivities may experience this effect even with moderate consumption.
When sugars or sugar alcohols are not fully absorbed in the small intestine, they travel to the large intestine. Here, gut bacteria ferment these undigested carbohydrates, producing gases such as hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide. This bacterial fermentation process leads to common symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal cramping.
The short-chain fatty acids generated during fermentation, along with the increased fluid from the osmotic effect, further contribute to altered bowel movements. People with sensitive digestive systems, such as those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), are particularly susceptible to these effects.
When to Consult a Doctor
While digestive upset from red licorice is usually temporary, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. If diarrhea persists for more than two days in adults or 24 hours in babies, consult a healthcare professional, as prolonged diarrhea can lead to dehydration.
Signs of dehydration include excessive thirst, dry mouth or skin, decreased or no urination, severe weakness, dizziness, or dark-colored urine. Seek medical advice if severe abdominal or rectal pain develops, if there is any presence of bloody or black, tarry stools, a fever exceeding 102°F (39°C), or unintended weight loss accompanying diarrhea.