Why Exactly Does Poop Float & Should I Be Concerned? Medical Experts Explain

Along with wondering about oddly colored or oddly shaped stools, we can't help but wonder why some poop floats. To get to the bottom of it, mbg spoke with functional medicine doctors and gut health experts on why it happens and whether it's cause for concern. 

"This should mean that digestion is good and food and waste are being broken down properly," she tells mbg. Eating high-fiber foods, like cruciferous vegetables, beans, or whole grains can lower the density of poop in some cases. 

Magnesium can promote better sleep and may support healthy blood sugar levels. In too high doses, though, Trubow says it can cause your stool to absorb more water, making them looser. "This isn't worrisome but might indicate the need to take less magnesium," she says. 

Researchers concluded that not everyone with floating stools has IBS, but it is a characteristic of the GI disorder. If you have other symptoms (cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, etc.), consult with a doctor or gastroenterologist. 

When stools are fatty, called steatorrhea2, they are more likely to float. "Since fat (which is oily) and water don't mix, the stool containing fat will float on the surface of the toilet water," Trubow explains. This could mean the body isn't properly absorbing certain nutrients or lacks the enzymes necessary to break down certain foods. According to functional medicine doctor Anshul Gupta, M.D., this could be a side effect of pancreatic enzyme deficiency, gallbladder dysfunction, or leaky gut. It's important to talk to a doctor if you're concerned about fatty stools.

Floating poop isn't always cause for concern, but it can be a sign of an underlying issue. Try these six suggestions to promote healthy digestion when it starts to feel off: 

When you're stressed out, digestion usually will be, too. (Blame the gut-brain axis.) Practicing stress-management techniques, like mindfulness, breathwork, or movement, will allow the rest of the body—including the mind and the gut—to relax, holistic psychologist Nicole Lippman-Barile, Ph.D., previously told mbg. 

"The longer you take a probiotic, the more diverse your microbiome will become, and the stronger your immune system and GI tract get," integrative physician Bindiya Gandhi, M.D., says.*

The efficiency and nutrient density of food is increased by properly chewing, nutritional psychiatrist Drew Ramsey, M.D., said during a mindbodygreen podcast episode. This can promote greater absorption of nutrients, which can lower the risk of fatty stools. 

Fried foods tend to be difficult to break down, Trubow explains. Limiting your intake or avoiding them when possible may support healthier digestion.  

Gut-friendly foods can include prebiotic and fermented foods, as well as foods containing digestive enzymes or plenty of fiber. Here are lists of each:  

Floating stools can indicate everything from healthy digestion to more concerning issues like irritable bowel syndrome. While there are plenty of ways to promote healthy digestion, it's always a good idea to visit a doctor or gastroenterologist if your poop consistently seems abnormal or concerning.