Is Your Poop Normal?

Color Of Stool

When it comes to color, stool most would consider normal ranges from medium to dark brown. This color is due to bilirubin, a pigment that forms when red blood cells break down. Some also argue a small amount of green in addition to the brown is alright. When poop turns entirely green, however, it can indicate something like an increased amount of dark greens in the individual's diet (e.g. spinach), or the stool is passing through the body too fast. The latter could be an issue, so individuals are encouraged to mention a persistent issue with this to their doctor.

Black-colored stool could be down to a simple issue such as consuming iron supplements, bismuth medication, or licorice, but if an individual has done none of these, black stool could be a symptom of bleeding in their upper gastrointestinal tract. Pale or chalky stool is evidence of a lack of bile or a side effect of medication, both of which doctors should be notified of. Red stool could indicate bleeding, though it could also be down to the high consumption of foods like beets or red gelatin. Finally, yellow stool, particularly when it smells, is typically a sign of too much fat or a condition like celiac disease.

Read more about signs to think about when determining if stool is normal.