Whether we like to admit it or not, sometimes when we look down at the toilet, there might be a raised eyebrow or even a gasp at the sight. Perhaps it's the aftermath of a risky takeaway meal the night before, or there could be a more alarming reason for the appearance of your stool.
According to Pensionist.dk, a doctor has warned that your stool could signify the need for medical attention. Gastrointestinal researcher Dr. Will Bulsiewicz aims to help others improve their health through diet and lifestyle changes. In a chat with Steven Bartlett on The Diary of a CEO podcast, he shared insights about stool health.
To produce healthier stools, Dr. Bulsiewicz recommended "fruits and vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts, and legumes."
He reviewed various types of stool and explained what each indicates.
Type one, with "hard lumps," means you are "very constipated."
Type two, "lumpy and sausage-like," indicates mild constipation.
Type three, "a sausage shape with cracks," suggests you are healthy.
Type four, consisting of a "smooth, soft sausage or snake," indicates a healthy gut.
Type five, with "soft blobs with clear-cut edges," lacks fiber in the diet.
Type six, a "mushy consistency with ragged edges," signals inflammation and diarrhea.
Regarding stool colors, Dr. Bulsiewicz said:
"White stools indicate a blockage preventing bile from mixing with your intestines."
"Yellow stools suggest difficulty processing fat. Green stools can indicate infection but are more likely from too much green juice. Similarly, blue stools may be from eating too many blueberries."
However, he emphasized that one particular color indicates the need for urgent medical help: red.
"Red is blood in your stool. It's not normal, and you should talk to your doctor," he advised.
Experts warn that red stools are often due to colon cancer or hemorrhoids. If your stool is black, you may also need to see a doctor.
"Black stools mean you've had Pepto Bismol, or bleeding in the stomach. Black stools will smell terrible and be tar-like," added Dr. Bulsiewicz.
