Why is feces brown in color

Learn about the best diet for gastroparesis and what…. Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and causes abdominal tenderness and pain. Learn more. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. Why brown? Other colors Why smelly? What makes poop brown?

What can cause poop to be other colors besides brown? What makes poop smelly? When to see a doctor. The bottom line. Read this next. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. Medically reviewed by Elaine K. Luo, M. Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. Jejunum Overview. What's Possible from Microbiome Testing at Home? Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization and proceeds from Web advertising help support our mission.

Mayo Clinic does not endorse any of the third party products and services advertised. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. See more conditions. Request Appointment. Stool color: When to worry. Products and services.

Yesterday, my stool color was bright green. Should I be concerned? Answer From Michael F. With Michael F. Thank you for Subscribing Our Housecall e-newsletter will keep you up-to-date on the latest health information. Going longer than three days between movements is cause for concern.

After three days, stool becomes harder and more difficult to pass, leading to more serious issues. You may be trying to access this site from a secured browser on the server. Please enable scripts and reload this page. Menu Search. End Results: What color is your poop and other pressing fecal matters What you need to know health-wise about shape, consistency, color and floaters By Scott LaFee May 04, Type 1 or 2 means that a person is probably constipated.

Type 5, 6, or 7 indicates that a person probably has diarrhea. This chart helps doctors identify problems and correlate the time food takes to pass through the digestive system. The shape and form of stool may also help doctors make a correct diagnosis. The most important thing to do to regulate stool color is to eat a healthy diet. The ideal stool color is light to dark brown. Some people who eat large quantities of greens may pass green poop. However, it is important to keep an eye on both the color and the texture of stool.

Anyone who is concerned about the color of their stool should discuss it with a doctor. Learn more about how the Squatty Potty may improve bowel movements.

Foamy or frothy poop is usually diarrhea-like and may appear to have bubbles in it. It may also seem oily or contain mucus. Learn about the causes…. Diarrhea, which refers to unusually loose or watery stools, is a common problem with many potential causes. Several treatments can help. Learn more…. It can sometimes cause alarm to look into the toilet after emptying the bowels and see poop that is a different color to the usual brown.