From the Research
A stool pH of 7.9 is indicative of alkaline stool, which is associated with an increased risk of Clostridium difficile infection, as evidenced by a study published in 2016 1. This suggests that the patient may be at risk for developing C. difficile infection, which can lead to severe diarrhea and potentially life-threatening complications. The management of alkaline stool pH should prioritize measures to reduce the risk of C. difficile infection, such as:
- Dietary modifications to reduce carbohydrate intake and promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria
- Consideration of probiotic supplements to support gut health
- Monitoring for symptoms of C. difficile infection, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever
- Avoiding the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, which can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and increase the risk of C. difficile infection It is essential to note that a stool pH of 7.9 is higher than the normal range of 5.0-7.0, and this alkalinity may be related to various factors, including carbohydrate malabsorption, lactose intolerance, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) 2. However, the most recent and highest-quality study available 1 suggests that the primary concern with an alkaline stool pH is the increased risk of C. difficile infection, and management should be tailored accordingly.