I thought I would throw this out there in case it might help anyone else. I had an endoscopy this week which among other things, indicates Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). which will be confirmed with biopsy results. EoE is basically an allergic response that changes the lining of the esophagus and can result in scarring and permanent damage. Food allergy is the most likely culprit in most cases. This tissue change had never been noted on any previous endos - just this one which was 10 months post op, which makes me think that it must be something in my diet that was added since surgery. My doc mentioned that Whey can do this in some people, and Whey protein is the ONLY thing that is different and has been added since surgery, and we all know how much we rely on the protein shakes and protein powder to get our requirements in. So I have switched to plant based protein powders now. I had cut out dairy products several weeks ago, to work toward more plant based eating, but was trying to finish up the whey protein powder, just because it is expensive and didn't want to waste it.

Well, the surprising result is (gets graphic, so those with weak stomachs)........my bowels have completely changed. While many of you are constipated, I have been struggling with light colored, loose, frothy stools, up to 8 times a day and coming with urgency that made me carry an emergency "clean up" kit. A also had a lot of malodorous gas that was socially embarrassing. Since stopping the whey, my stools are NORMAL! Normal color, normal firmness, and only 1-2 times a day. Gas is now minimal. This is wonderful! I did not realize how much the loose frequency was affecting my quality of life, especially with outdoor exercising, running errands, and work. So much better now!

Sooo........ if anyone else has the stool symptoms I have experienced, try cutting out the whey and maybe all dairy for a week and see what happens.

Just now, summerset said:

Do the phytoestrogens really have weird effects on dudes? If this is bothering you, you could get a soy Protein that is filtered. Or try a different source of plant protein. There are plenty of protein mixes out there.

True, but I just like being safe, and I don't think it has any effect if there is no underlying hormonal imbalance.