Poop, also known as stool or feces, is the waste product that comes out of your body after digestion. It may not be the most glamorous topic, but it is an important one. The color of your poop can say a lot about your health and what is going on inside your body.
What Is A Healthy Poop Color?
Before we dive into the different colors of poop, it is important to know what a healthy poop color looks like. A healthy poop should be brown, which is the result of bilirubin, a pigment produced by the liver, mixing with the waste in your gut. The consistency of your poop should also be smooth and easy to pass.
If your poop is a different color, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Green Poop
Green poop can be alarming, but it is not always a cause for concern. If you have recently eaten green leafy vegetables, it could be the reason for the green color. However, if you have green poop consistently and it is accompanied by other symptoms such as diarrhea, it could be a sign of a digestive issue such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease.
Yellow Poop
Yellow poop can be a sign of excess fat in your stool, which can be caused by a malabsorption issue such as celiac disease or pancreatitis. It can also be a sign of a liver or gallbladder problem, as the bile that is produced in these organs is what gives your poop its brown color.
Black Poop
Black poop can be a sign of bleeding in your upper gastrointestinal tract, such as in your stomach or small intestine. This bleeding can be caused by a number of issues, including ulcers, gastritis, or cancer. If you have black poop, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Red Poop
Red poop can also be a sign of bleeding in your gastrointestinal tract, but in this case, the bleeding is happening in your lower gastrointestinal tract, such as in your colon or rectum. This could be caused by hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, or cancer. If you have red poop, it is important to see a doctor right away.
White Poop
White poop can be a sign of a problem with your liver or gallbladder, as it indicates a lack of bile in your stool. This could be caused by a blockage in your bile ducts, hepatitis, or cirrhosis. It is important to see a doctor right away if you have white poop.
Conclusion
While the color of your poop may not be the most pleasant thing to think about, it is an important indicator of your health. If you notice a change in the color of your poop, it is important to pay attention to any other symptoms you may be experiencing and see a doctor if necessary.