Usually, floating stools result from nutrient malabsorption that can lead to excess flatus (a.k.a. gas), which makes the stool less dense and thus allows it to float. What causes poop to float? Floating poop causes are most often related to diet. Dietary changes can lead to an increase in gas. Foods that are rich in lactose, starch, fiber, or sugars – like apples, milk, cabbage, sprouts, beans, and soft drinks – can be responsible for a floating stool. If you have not made any changes to your diet and notice floating poop, along with some of the symptoms outlined above, other causes, including those described below, have to be considered. Malabsorption – When this is the cause, the floating stool will have a greasy look to it and will be very smelly. Lactose intolerance – If someone is lactose intolerant, they could have a floating stool when they consume any diary products. Lactose is a sugar that is found in dairy products. Some people just can’t digest it. Consuming dairy when lactose intolerant can lead to diarrhea and even malabsorption. Celiac disease – When a person has inflammation of the lining in the small intestine, it could mean that they can’t handle gluten. This protein is found in wheat and related grains. Nutrient malabsorption occurs when the body does not completely digest and absorb nutrients from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It may be helpful to keep track of any changes to your diet and see whether removing certain foods causes symptoms to disappear. However, see a Gastroenterologist if you notice a change in stool characteristics lasting over two weeks, or if these symptoms are accompanied by blood, weight loss, fever, or dizziness.