Has the word “poop” or maybe a poop joke ever paid a visit to your dinner table? If so, hopefully when you’re at home and not out for dinner at a restaurant ““ how embarrassing. The topic can be uncomfortable for many, but for a four-year-old, it’s part of everyday toddler humor. At times, it can be a funny topic of conversation, but there are some real health aspects to pay attention to in regard to the color, shape and consistency of your bowel movements.
“I share the Bristol Stool Chart with my patients,” said Dr. Susan Oakley, urogynecologist at St. Elizabeth Physicians. “I tell them to shoot for Type 4: the J- or S-shaped poop that is silky and long with no breaks and floats. That is the ideal situation, because if it floats it means you’re hydrated. If it sinks, it means you need to drink more water or aren’t eating right.”
Color also plays a factor. Specific colors to look for are bright red, dark black or light brown/tan. “Bright red means there could be an issue at the exit,” said Oakley. “Dark black could mean that the blood started up top, toward the stomach, which could mean a stomach ulcer. Light brown/tan can be a sign of gallbladder disease or too much fat in your poop. Green is nothing to be concerned about ““ it could be that you ate something with food coloring or food dyes.”
“Regardless the type or color, we’re looking at overall mechanics and if everything is flowing right,” said Oakley. If you’re experiencing consistent issues, there are things you can do to improve your gastro health, like:
- Walk 30 minutes a day. The endorphins you release when you do moderate exercise can help you become more “regular.”
- Drink lots of water. Being hydrated will make it easier to go. Remember the “8 by 8” rule: eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.
- Eat a healthy diet. Fruits and vegetables offer lots of fiber. If you can’t get the recommended 30-35 grams per day (for adults), supplements can help. Be sure to add them slowly to your diet to prevent bloating.
If you try these and still experience discomfort, or things look very different, there could be some blockage and it’s time to discuss with your doctor.
