Black, tarry stools are the result of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Specifically, they may originate from the stomach, the esophagus or the upper portion of the small intestine.

The idea that anything you eat just before bed turns immediately to fat is not true, according to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, but there are good reasons for not sleeping right after a meal.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a chronic digestive disease. It occurs when stomach acid or, occasionally, bile flows back into the esophagus.

Cholecystectomy is the name of the surgery for the removal of the gallbladder, which is one of the most common surgical procedures for women in the United States, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.

The spleen is a small, fist-sized organ located below your left rib cage, and is a significant part of your body’s immune system. It helps fight infection by producing white blood cells called lymphocytes as a defense against invading pathogens.

If you frequently suffer from diarrhea within a few hours of drinking Coke or other types of soft drinks, it may be due to one of the ingredients these beverages contain. Most people do not experience any short-term problems by drinking Coke.

Malabsorption is the medical term for not digesting and absorbing your food properly. Many types of medical conditions can lead to malabsorption, which typically comes to light when you experience signs and symptoms. Your digestive system is the primary site for many of the signs and symptoms of malabsorption.

Beer does not cause diarrhea in healthy adults. Certain ingredients may cause an allergic reaction in some people that results in diarrhea. The Auckland Allergy Clinic states that barley, hops and yeast may be the cause of some allergic reactions to beer.

Hemorrhoids are caused by swollen veins within the rectum that cause bulging, burning and pain at the site. Hemorrhoids can be brought about by straining during bouts of constipation as well as excess pressure on the lower extremities during pregnancy.

Raw oysters might put you in the mood for romance, but if you're not careful they may also put you in the bathroom. If you suffer from diarrhea after eating raw oysters, it may be the result of a shellfish allergy or food poisoning, causing the gastrointestinal tract to quickly rid itself of an unwanted substance.

Nighttime acid reflux can bring on symptoms of coughing, snoring and burning pain that can disrupt sleep and have a strong negative impact on quality of life.

Diverticular disease affects approximately 30 million Americans each year, according to the Rochester Health website. Diverticulosis occurs when little pockets, which are known as diverticula, form along the colon wall. When these pockets get inflamed or infected, the condition is called diverticulitis.