Many of us have gone to the bathroom and been surprised by the colour of our poo. With "normal" ranges going from brown through to green or red it is usually fine but there are times we should seek medical help. A healthy stool typically presents as medium brown, soft, and well-formed, says gut-health expert, Chris Dubberley from Incontinence Shop .
Chris says: "The colour and consistency of your poo can offer crucial insights into our digestive health. "A healthy stool typically presents as medium brown, soft, and well-formed. Any difference from this requires some attention and possible evaluation by a healthcare professional.
" Chris advises: "While dietary factors like beetroot or green vegetables can transiently alter stool colour, persistent yellow hue may indicate underlying issues such as coeliac disease. This condition, if undiagnosed, can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress and malabsorption of nutrients." "Green stool, often attributed to excessive intake of leafy greens or certain medications, may signal a bacterial infection, particularly if accompanied by diarrhoea and general malaise," says Chris.
He warns dark poo needs to be watched. He said: "Dark stool, especially if persistent, could signify bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract, requiring urgent medical attention. It's important not to overlook this symptom, as it could potentially point to serious conditions such as bowel cancer, where early detection is so important.
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