Why Does Deer Meat Give Me Diarrhea?

Due to its lean and tasty quality, deer meat, often known as venison, is a favorite choice for many meat connoisseurs.

However, some people may develop digestive troubles after eating deer meat such as diarrhea.

In this article, we’ll look at the possible causes of this phenomena and offer tips on how to eat venison without experiencing stomach distress.

Why Does Deer Meat Give Me Diarrhea?

Diarrhea after eating deer meat, often known as venison, can be caused by a number of circumstances.

Individual sensitivities to food might differ, and what causes digestive distress in one person may not effect another in the same manner. Here are some possible causes of diarrhea caused by deer meat:

1. Low Fat Conten

Venison is well-known for its leanness, which is sometimes seen as a health benefit. However, the low-fat level can cause stomach troubles, especially if you’re not used to eating lean meats.

Fat is essential for slowing digestion, and its absence can result in food flowing too quickly through the digestive tract, resulting in loose stools or diarrhea.

To combat this, mix venison with meals high in healthy fats, such as avocados or almonds, to help digestion.

2. High Protein Content

While venison’s high protein content is a nutritional benefit, it can also be difficult on the digestive system, especially if consumed in big quantities in a short period of time.

Excess protein consumption can cause gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea. If you’re having trouble digesting your protein, consider spacing it out more evenly throughout the day and drinking plenty of water.

3. Undercooking

One of the most serious concerns about eating venison is the potential of undercooking. Deer meat must be carefully cooked to kill any hazardous bacteria or parasites that may be present.

Consuming raw venison can result in foodborne infections, such as food poisoning, which can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. Check the internal temperature of the beef using a food thermometer to verify it is at least 160°F (71°C).

4. Gamey Flavor

Many people dislike venison’s distinct, gamey flavor. If you’re not used to the flavor of venison, your first encounters with it may cause gastrointestinal distress.

This is frequently a sensory adjustment rather than a digestion issue. Your body may react differently to the flavor as you become more accustomed to it.

5. Cross-Contamination

When working with raw venison, cross-contamination is a major risk. If necessary precautions are not taken, bacteria present on the meat can quickly spread to other foods and surfaces.

Always use separate cutting boards, utensils, and surfaces for raw venison to avoid cross-contamination. After handling raw meat, be sure to properly wash your hands and kitchen items.

6. Individual Sensitivity

Because everyone’s digestive system is different, some people may be more sensitive to particular meals, including venison. Genetics, underlying medical issues, and the overall health of your gut can all have an impact on how your body reacts to various meals.

If you routinely feel stomach discomfort after eating venison, you should seek the advice of a healthcare practitioner or a trained nutritionist. They can assist in the identification of underlying food sensitivities or allergies and provide individualized dietary advice.

Consider the following actions to reduce the risk of diarrhea after consuming deer meat:

  • To kill any potential infections, ensure that deer meat is fully cooked.
  • To avoid cross-contamination, use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw venison and other dishes.
  • Introduce venison into your diet gradually to allow your body to adjust to its distinct flavor and composition.
  • Moderation is essential. Consume deer meat in moderation to avoid overburdening your digestive system.

If you continue to have digestive problems after eating deer meat, it’s best to see a doctor. They can assist in identifying any underlying food sensitivities or allergies and provide individualized dietary advice.

Other Consequences Of Eating Venison 

If you have deer meat or venison that was shot in the wild, it may contain lead. Before you question whether the bullet or bullets used were containing lead. 

According to research, 30 White Tail Deer carcasses shot by hunters using lead bullets had a wide dispersion of metal fragments. 

The meat from the carcasses was ground and examined using fluoroscopy. Only 20% were found to be free of lead. 

Another trial involved feeding the meat to pigs, and blood tests revealed that the flesh contained bioavailable lead.

Too much lead in the body can cause hypertension and problems with the brain, kidneys, and reproductive system.

Lead poisoning symptoms include stomach cramps, constipation, headache, joint/muscle discomfort, exhaustion, irritability, and decreased sexual drive. 

We recommend inquiring whether the wild deer meat was shot with a lead bullet. If it has, we do not recommend acquiring it, especially if you have children and intend to prepare the meat for the entire family. 

If it has, and you have already consumed it without realizing it, the best thing to do is seek expert assistance. 

Aside from that, food poisoning could be the source of the aforesaid symptoms, such as headache and stomach discomfort. 

Venison can be used to make a variety of delectable meals, but it must be handled, processed, and kept properly, and it should not be shot with a lead bullet if obtained in the wild. 

While deer meat can be a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet, it’s important to understand the possible causes of digestive difficulties, such as diarrhea, that some people may suffer. Proper handling, cooking, and dietary changes can help alleviate these concerns, allowing you to enjoy the distinct flavor of venison without discomfort.

Thanks for reading. I hope you find it helpful.