Poop Color and Shape Reveal Health Issues

Poop is an often-overlooked aspect of our health. In the 21st century, we have realized the importance of monitoring our well-being, yet we overlook the signals our body sends us. However, analyzing the color and shape of our stool can provide vital information about our overall health. Despite the unpleasantness of the task, it is a simple yet effective way to gauge our well-being.

Viral Strange will list 12 things you should look out for in your poop to know more about your health.

POOP COLOR

The color of stool can vary slightly based on diet. However, brown is typically considered normal. However, a sudden unexplained change in color may be a cause for concern.

1. White

The absence of bile can be indicated by whitish, grayish, or clay-colored stool, pointing towards potential issues with the liver and gallbladder, such as gallstones or cirrhosis, arising from blocked bile ducts or other underlying causes.

If the brown stool has white mucus, it could signify the presence of Crohn’s disease.

2. Green

The green hue of feces comes from consuming vegetables high in chlorophyll, such as spinach. Also, it can be the addition of green food coloring in drinks or iron supplements.

However, if food is not the root cause, it indicates that the stool moved too rapidly through the digestive system, leaving insufficient time for bile and bilirubin to be processed.

3. Yellow

When stool appears yellow, it can indicate blocked bile ducts and inadequate fat absorption. Additionally, a deficiency in pancreas-produced enzymes may point toward chronic pancreatitis, celiac disease, or cystic fibrosis. However, yellow stool can also appear by non-threatening factors such as consuming excess carrots or yellow-colored beverages.

4. Black

If you notice black stool, it could be due to medication such as aspirin, ibuprofen, iron supplements, or bleeding in the intestines which requires prompt medical attention. However, a more frequent cause is consuming black and blue foods like blueberries or licorice.

5. Red

If you notice red stool, it is often related to your dietary intakes, such as beets, tomatoes, or colored drinks. However, if your diet is not the cause, you should seek medical attention. The presence of blood in your stool can indicate more serious issues such as anal fissures, hemorrhoids, ulcerative colitis, or cancer and requires prompt medical evaluation.

POOP SHAPE

Scientific research can convince you that monitoring your stool is normal. The Bristol Royal Infirmary scientists developed the Bristol stool chart to categorize feces into seven types and provide health insights.

1.

Appearance:

• Separate solid lumps reminiscent of nuts or goat feces.

Meaning:

• Severe constipation.

If you experience this type of stool, it could indicate a lack of fiber in your diet. Add fiber-rich foods to your diet, such as whole wheat pasta, raspberries, and lentils.

2.

Appearance:

• Sausage-shaped, large, and lumpy.

Meaning:

• Constipation.

If you are experiencing this type of stool, it may also indicate constipation caused by a lack of fiber in your diet. However, other reasons for constipation include long-term use of antidiarrheal medication and a lack of physical activity. To address this issue, consider adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet and incorporating regular exercise into your routine.

3.

Appearance:

• A cracked sausage-shaped poop.

Meaning:

• Normal stool.

If you have this type of stool, it’s a good sign that your bowel movements are healthy and normal. Make sure to drink plenty of water and engage in regular physical activity like walking.

4.

Appearance:

• Soft, sausage-shaped, and smooth.

Meaning:

• Perfect stool.

Congratulations! This type of stool is an excellent indication that your bowel movements are healthy and normal. To maintain this, try to consume a balanced diet and avoid stressful situations. Keep up the great work!

5.

Appearance:

• Soft lumps with clear-cut edges.

Meaning:

• Light diarrhea.

If you have this type of stool, it may indicate light diarrhea, which could also be a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Try eating low-fiber foods like bananas, crackers, and potatoes. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention from your healthcare provider.

6.

Appearance:

• Fluffy pieces with ragged edges.

Meaning:

• Mild diarrhea.

This type of stool may indicate mild diarrhea, which could be caused by consuming too much fiber in your diet. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, and try consuming boiled potatoes and bananas. Over-the-counter medications like Imodium or Pepto-Bismol may also be helpful. If symptoms persist longer than two days, consult with a healthcare professional.

7.

Appearance:

• Liquid without solid pieces.

Meaning:

• Severe diarrhea.

This type of stool may indicate severe diarrhea, which could be a sign of food poisoning, lactose intolerance, bacterial infection, or medication intake. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, and consider using over-the-counter medications. If symptoms persist for more than two days, or if you experience abdominal pain or discomfort, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Have you seen any changes in your poop lately? Have you ever sought medical help regarding the issue? Let us know in the comments!