The Takeaway
- New or worsening diarrhea is common in seniors — and often treatable.
- Causes range from age-related gut changes to medications, new food intolerances, and yes, alcohol.
- Alcohol affects gut lining, microbiome, and hydration — even in modest amounts.
- Don’t brush it off — track symptoms, check meds, and talk with your doctor.
- A specialist can test for things like microscopic colitis, bile acid malabsorption, or SIBO.
When Your Gut Starts Misbehaving
But now? You wake up with cramps. You’re rushing to the bathroom before your morning coffee. And it’s not a one-off. It’s been happening more and more. What gives?
Turns out, it’s not just “one of those things” that come with age. It’s your body waving a flag and asking for attention.
Aging Changes the Digestive Game
The truth is, a lot happens in the gut as we get older:
