Digestive Issues: What Your Stool Says About Your Diet

You are what you eat... (sweat)

I'm sorry, but it seems a bit gross to talk about (laughs).
Recently, I've noticed a phenomenon of "what you eat is what you excrete." One time, I ate stir-fried squid, and the next morning my stool was black, which made me think I had a gastrointestinal bleed (^^;).
Later, I realized it was probably due to the squid ink, so I didn't worry too much.
However, it got even more bizarre recently when I could see the watermelon I ate the previous afternoon in my stool...
(-____0) It was all red, and I thought this time it might be intestinal bleeding (^^|||).
After eating watermelon for two consecutive days, I had red stools for two days...
(sweat).
I guess it must be the watermelon; as long as it's not bleeding, I'm fine.
But it still feels very strange...
Is this normal for people?! For the past two days, I've also eaten papaya, and it came out whole...
(I know it sounds gross, I'm sorry~).
It's not just fruits; it's other vegetables too...
I used to have a gastric polyp, but it was detected and cauterized during abnormal differentiation, and subsequent examinations showed no issues.
However, now whenever I drink coffee, I experience stomach pain or diarrhea...
Additionally, I have a habit of inducing vomiting for weight loss; could this be related?! By the way, the pain is currently around my navel.
I'm sorry to bother you, but I would like to ask for your advice.
Thank you...
m(__)m

S.K., 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/06/09

Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

If the stool color is yellow or has a good shape, it is generally acceptable.
However, if it is deep purple (or black like hair), it may indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding, suggesting poor internal health.
It is advisable to consume more yogurt for maintenance.
Gastric polyps can be monitored with an endoscopy every five years.
Pain near the anal area may be caused by spasms in the large or small intestine.
It is recommended to stop dieting and focus on improving internal health.

Reply Date: 2001/06/09

More Info

Understanding digestive issues and what your stool says about your diet can be quite complex, but it’s essential for maintaining good health. The observations you’ve made regarding your stool color and consistency can indeed be linked to your dietary choices, and it’s important to address these concerns, especially given your history of gastrointestinal issues.

Firstly, the phenomenon of seeing undigested food in your stool, such as watermelon or papaya, can occur when the digestive system is not breaking down food properly. This can be due to several factors, including rapid transit time through the intestines, insufficient digestive enzymes, or even dietary choices that are high in fiber. In your case, it seems that the fruits you mentioned are passing through your system quickly, which might indicate that your body is not fully absorbing the nutrients. This can happen if you have a sensitive digestive system or if there are underlying issues affecting your gut health.

The black stool you experienced after eating squid could indeed be attributed to the ink used in cooking. However, it’s crucial to differentiate between dietary causes and potential health issues such as gastrointestinal bleeding. If you notice persistent changes in stool color or consistency, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like pain or discomfort, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Regarding your experience of abdominal pain after consuming coffee, this could be a sign of gastritis or an irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) reaction. Coffee is known to stimulate gastric acid production, which can lead to discomfort in sensitive individuals. It’s important to monitor how your body reacts to different foods and beverages and consider reducing or eliminating those that trigger discomfort.

Your history of using vomiting as a weight control method raises additional concerns. This behavior can lead to a range of gastrointestinal issues, including esophageal irritation, electrolyte imbalances, and can significantly impact your digestive health. It’s crucial to seek help for these habits, as they can have long-term health consequences.

The pain you’re experiencing near your navel could be related to several factors, including digestive issues, muscle strain, or even referred pain from other organs. Given your history of gastrointestinal issues, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while it’s not uncommon for diet to influence stool appearance, the symptoms you’re experiencing warrant further investigation. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in whole foods, staying hydrated, and being mindful of how your body reacts to certain foods can help improve your digestive health. Additionally, addressing any underlying issues related to your eating habits and seeking professional guidance can lead to better overall health outcomes. If symptoms persist, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

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