Stool Color Changes: What Your Digestive Health Says

Q: Stool Color Changes: What Your Digestive Health Says

Hello： 1. <br>It is likely a normal phenomenon; chewing food thoroughly before swallowing can help prevent this situation. <br>2. <br>The quantitative immunoassay (iFOBT) detects human hemoglobin-specific antibodies and is not affected by diet, meaning it will not be influenced b

The color of stool?

Hello, on May 31, I ate carrots.
On June 1, my stool was shaped like a log and golden yellow but slightly orange.
On June 2, the stool was also golden yellow with a slight orange tint, but I noticed a tiny bit of red.
There was no red on the toilet paper, only golden yellow, and I do not have any abdominal pain.
I have been having bowel movements every morning after breakfast, and they are all smooth.
Is this normal? The color is concerning...

Secondly, from May 27 to May 30, I used over-the-counter home fecal occult blood test strips, and the results were all negative.
How accurate are these test strips?
Lastly, does eating carrots affect the results of the quantitative immunochemical fecal occult blood test?

A Long, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/02

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
It is likely a normal phenomenon; chewing food thoroughly before swallowing can help prevent this situation.
2.
The quantitative immunoassay (iFOBT) detects human hemoglobin-specific antibodies and is not affected by diet, meaning it will not be influenced by consuming foods containing blood components from other animals.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2017/06/02

More Info

Understanding stool color changes can provide valuable insights into your digestive health. The color, consistency, and frequency of your stool can reflect various factors, including diet, hydration, and potential underlying health issues.
In your case, you mentioned consuming carrots on May 31, and subsequently, your stools appeared gold with an orange tint on June 1 and 2. This change in color is likely due to the carotenoids present in carrots, which can impart an orange hue to your stool. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a pigment that can affect stool color, especially when consumed in larger quantities. The fact that your stools are still forming well and you are not experiencing any abdominal pain is a positive sign.
The presence of a slight red color in your stool can be concerning, but it is essential to consider the context. If you did not observe any red color on the toilet paper and the stool itself is primarily golden with an orange tint, it may not indicate a significant issue. However, it is crucial to monitor for any changes in your stool, such as increased redness, changes in consistency, or the presence of blood. If you notice persistent changes or any concerning symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Regarding your question about the accuracy of the home stool occult blood test, these tests can vary in sensitivity and specificity. Generally, they are designed to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding. A negative result is reassuring, but it does not completely rule out the possibility of gastrointestinal issues. If you have concerns or if symptoms persist, follow-up testing or a consultation with a healthcare provider is advisable.

As for your question about whether eating carrots can affect the quantitative immunochemical fecal occult blood test, the answer is yes, certain foods can influence test results. Foods high in beta-carotene, like carrots, may not directly cause a false positive but can affect the color of the stool. It's essential to follow any dietary restrictions provided by your healthcare provider before undergoing such tests to ensure accurate results.

In summary, while the changes in your stool color may be related to your diet, particularly your recent intake of carrots, it is essential to remain vigilant. Monitor for any additional symptoms or changes, and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider can help ensure your digestive health remains on track.

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