Can Gluten Intolerance Cause Mucus in Stool?

Although it’s not a hallmark symptom of gluten intolerance, you might also notice the presence of mucus, a clear and jelly-like substance, in your stool.

That’s because gluten intolerance could cause changes in your bowel habits, which may include increased mucus production in stool, says Nayana George, MD, a gastroenterologist at Orlando Health Digestive Health Institute in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Here’s a look at why mucus may occur with gluten intolerance, other reasons you may see mucus, and when to consider checking in with your healthcare provider.

Mucus in Stool: Is It a Sign of Gluten Intolerance?

The mucous membrane, also called the mucosa, in your digestive system is a lining that protects your intestines from harmful substances while still letting nutrients and water absorb into the bloodstream.

When there’s disruption in the mucosa from inflammation, damage, or infection, that can cause an increase in mucus production to fight what the body sees as a threat.

When that happens, more of the mucus is shed through bowel movements, says Richard Terry, DO, family medicine physician and associate dean of academic affairs at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Elmira, Pennsylvania.

“Mucus in the stool can occur in individuals with gluten intolerance, though it is not one of the classic hallmark symptoms of that condition,” he says. It’s important to note, though, that it usually happens along with other bowel habit changes.

Other Causes of Mucus in Stool

According to Dr. George, a small amount of mucus in your stool — usually the day after you eat gluten — is likely not a cause for concern. But pay attention to whether you’re having other symptoms, such as a fever or chills, which may indicate a more serious issue.

Here are some other possible causes of mucus in stool.

Constipation

One of the most common causes of mucus in stool is constipation, says Dr. Terry. That’s because decreased bowel movements tend to create stools that are dry, hard, and difficult to pass.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Another common cause of mucus in stool is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It involves disruption in how the nerves within the digestive system work.

• Abdominal pain and cramping related to passing bowel movements
• Bloating
• Changes in how stool appears
• More or less frequent bowel movements

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

There are two main types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) — Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis — and as the name implies, both are characterized by inflammation.

As mentioned, increased inflammation may lead to excess mucus production that ends up in the stool.

• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Unexplained weight loss

Gastrointestinal Infections

Whether your infection is caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, it can raise the level of inflammation within the digestive tract and affect the mucosa in your intestines.

Colorectal Cancer

When to See a Doctor

Occasional, very small amounts of mucus that come without any other symptoms are likely not enough to warrant a doctor’s appointment.

However, George suggests getting checked if the mucus in your stool is accompanied by other symptoms, such as:

• Fever
• Chills with bowel movements
• Blood in your stool
• Stool that’s black or tarry
• Bloating
• Fatigue
• Unexpected weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Presence of mucus for over four weeks, particularly if the amount is increasing over time

“Additionally, if there is a family history of gastrointestinal disease or cancer, prompt evaluation is important,” says Terry. “A health care provider may recommend diagnostic testing, such as stool studies, endoscopy, or imaging, to determine the cause.”

The Takeaway

• Gluten intolerance can potentially lead to irritation of the intestinal lining. That may prompt an excess production of mucus.
• If you see mucus in your stool, it could be normal, especially if it’s only occasionally. However, it could indicate gluten intolerance or another health condition, such as constipation, infection, IBS, or IBD.
• When mucus is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or abdominal pain, consider getting checked by your doctor.