When Stool Is Dark?

Black stools can indicate bleeding or other injuries in your gastrointestinal tract. You may also have dark, discolored bowel movements after eating dark-colored foods. Tell your doctor any time you have bloody or black-colored stool to rule out serious medical conditions.

What does it mean when your poop is dark?

Black stools are a worrisome symptom because it may be due to a large amount of bleeding into the digestive system, most often from the upper GI tract including the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Red blood cells are broken down by digestive enzymes in the intestine and turn the stool black.

Is dark brown poop normal?

Normal poop is generally: Medium to dark brown: This is because it contains a pigment called bilirubin, which forms when red blood cells break down. Strong-smelling: Bacteria in excrement emit gases that contain the unpleasant odor associated with poop.