It is difficult to know how common this problem is, but various research studies suggest that 2–15% of adults soil their underwear regularly .
Causes of fecal incontinence
Diet is the first thing to check. Anything that makes the consistency of the feces more runny, such as a heavy intake of beer, will make it more difficult for you to hold them in.
In the USA, the 'non-fat fat', called olestra (Olean), used in some 'slimming' foods has gained unwelcome publicity for this reason. It is an artificial mixture of fats, none of which can be digested or absorbed. Instead, it goes straight along the gut and is passed out at the other end.
