Why does green poop mean

Green stool is usually the result of eating a large quantity of leafy, green vegetables. Specifically, the chlorophyll in the plants produces the green color. Alternatively, children might have green stool after eating artificially colored frosting at a birthday party. However, people who do not eat a lot of greens or food coloring should be wary, as green poop can have a more serious cause.

People who think their green stool is not the result of a diet rich in vegetables or green food coloring should discuss it with a doctor. Stool is usually light to dark brown. A substance from red blood cells called bilirubin gets processed and ends up in the intestines. Bacteria then break it down further, and it turns stool brown. So, what does it mean when the color of poop suddenly changes, and what are some possible causes?

Changes in diet can produce varying stool colors. Eating beets, high chlorophyll green vegetables, or licorice can significantly change stool color. Drinking Guinness or drinks that contain heavy dye, such as Kool-Aid, can have a similar effect. In infants, foods may cause color changes, such as:. However, some causes of non-brown stool are more serious, and it is important to deal with these issues immediately. It is difficult to consistently relate a precise color to each condition.

However, here are some possible connections between colors and conditions:. If any discoloration persists, it is important that a person see a doctor instead of trying to work it out on their own. In addition to any traces of blood in the stool or bleeding from the anus, pay attention to any other symptoms that occur with stool discoloration. These may include nausea, vomiting blood, or a feeling of fullness. Common causes of rectal bleeding include :.

It is worth having a quick look at stool before flushing it away. Stool is a very good indicator of whether the digestive system is working properly. Fruits and food dyes offer a rainbow of options and are typically the most common cause of non-brown stool. That being said, oddly colored poop might indicate something that needs attention — particularly if it lingers or comes with symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, bleeding, fever and vomiting.

Pale poop or blood-tinged stool is of particular concern, too. A gastroenterologist at Cleveland Clinic explains why your doo may be a different hue. Learn more about vaccine availability.

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Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Why Is My Poop Green? Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. See a doctor Takeaway It can be alarming to suddenly notice that your poop is looking a little… green. But there are also some other causes of colorful stools: an underlying medical condition antibiotics a bacterial infection.

Why is it usually brown, anyway? Bile pigment. Antibiotics and other medications. Parasites, viruses, and bacteria. Gastrointestinal conditions. Anal fissures. Is green poop a sign of cancer? When to see a doctor. The takeaway. Read this next. Imodium A-D vs. Medically reviewed by Zara Risoldi Cochrane, Pharm.

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