does pomegranate cause dark stools

2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. However, drinking this fruit juice isn't practical, and it may not even be good for your health. Vegetable Oil: Nutrition Fac Olive Oil Vs. The color of your poop can be an issue, but one of these foods is most likely to blame. Then strain the juice to remove any unwanted roughage. However, eating too much pomegranate can cause red stool. Chen M, Zhou SY, Fabriaga E, et al. It may be in the juice aisle or alongside whole fruit. Pomegranate Juice Consumption Inhibits Serum Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Activity and Reduces Systolic Blood Pressure, Atherosclerosis, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. When not enough bile is being produced or secreted, stools will be pale, light, or clay-colored due to the lack of bilirubin. Could pomegranate juice help in the control of inflammatory diseases? Common foods known to do this include licorice, blueberries, beets, red-colored gelatin or food made with blood (ie blood sausage). 2011 - 2023 IncNut Stylecraze Private Limited. Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now. It is similar to other fruits in that it contains fiber and sugar in order to aid bowel movements. Pomegranates may also be behind digestive issues as well as cause nausea, vomiting, and chest pain. Effects of pomegranate juice on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with metabolic syndrome: a double-blinded, randomized crossover controlled trial. This is particularly true with laxatives. Pomegranate. Though rare, pomegranate allergies can be life-threatening. This can be a problem in young children, especially those who were toilet trained recently. The lockdown made it impossible to do physical activity. This is only temporary and will go away when you Stop taking bismuth subsalicylate. If you remove the seeds, keep them in the refrigerator. However, pomegranate root, stem, and peel contain substances that may be harmful in large amounts. flat mite (Brevipalpus sp.) Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. Hence, stick to the juice during pregnancy. The skin should be bright or deep red and feel firm and leathery. Very common (10% or more): Black stool. What is the best way to store a whole pomegranate? This tangy beverage has been studied for heart health and more. Pomegranate juice may interact with the following drugs: Pomegranate juice may be consumed from the fruit's seeds. Excess mucus can occur due to IBS, Crohn's, UC, or proctitis. Once the blood goes through the digestive system, it turns the stool a darker brown and eventually looks black or tarry. The tree produces bright red flowers singly at the tips of the branches and a . National Cancer Institute. Other stool colors. Some people have digestive side effects from pomegranate, such as diarrhea, which is the most common. 14 Best Home Remedies For Skin Allergies | Causes And Symptoms, 15 Simple & Natural Ways To Lower Your Blood Pressure At Home, 15 Home Remedies For Indigestion, Relief Tips, & Foods To Take, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3354222/, https://www.ajconline.org/article/S0002-9149(06)01006-X/fulltext, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11500191-pomegranate-juice-consumption-inhibits-serum-angiotensin-converting-enzyme-activity-and-reduces-systolic-blood-pressure/, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/308650256_Effects_of_Pomegranate_on_Drug_Metabolizing_Cytochrome_P450_Enzymes_Expressions_in_Rats, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27888156, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6103006/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4895098/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5988808/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25003428/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8595036/, 11 Amazing Health Benefits Of Macadamia Nuts, What Is Glycemic Index & List Of Foods With Their GI, 5 Fantastic Benefits of Erythritol The New-Age Sweetener, Longan Fruit: Health Benefits,Nutrition Profile & Side Effects, 10 Benefits Of Olives, Nutrition, How To Eat, & Side Effects, 5 Serious Side Effects Of Chasteberry The Mediterranean Herb, 21 Benefits Of Rosemary Essential Oil, Uses, & Side Effects, 15 Important Benefits Of Guava Fruit + Guava Nutrition Facts. But stool that simply seems darker than normal may be the result of dehydration, constipation, or eating dark-colored foods or iron-rich foods or supplements. On Real Food Pledge, you'll find a variety of healthy recipes, as well as articles on topics such as the benefits of healthy eating, how to make the switch to a healthier diet, and more. Oral allergy syndrome in birch pollen-sensitized patients from a korean university hospital. This can make your. If you need to use a laxative on a regular basis, talk with your doctor. Check the label to see if other juices or sweeteners are added. Foods That May Cause Black Stools It may cause side effects, like diarrhea, allergies, or adverse drug interactions in some people. Stool color is generally influenced by what you eat as well as by the amount of bile a yellow-green fluid that digests fats in your stool. Light brown spots on leaves and fruit which enlarge and coalesce to form large black patches on fruit; black elliptical spots appear on twigs and become flattened and depressed with a raised margin; infected twigs dry out and die; infection may cause plant death. However, this may be different for children. There are several reasons why bile is not secreted as it is supposed to: Acholia can affect children and even newborns. This infection can lead to severe diarrhea with black tarry stools, especially in infants and children. 2018;112:224-234. doi:10.1016/j.fct.2017.12.038, Vui V, Grabe M, Trchounian A, et al. Irritable bowel syndromes (IBS) is a chronic disorder of the colon (large intestine) that can flare up at different times. Jinan helps working women to lose weight so that they can feel confident and energetic by offering free information on her blog, as well as nutrition coaching. Anaphylactic reactions to pomegranate: identification and characterization of eliciting IgE-reactive components, Clinical and Translational Allergy, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Common Causes of Dark Stool. Iron supplements and medications with bismuth, such as Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate, can also change stool color. Apply a skin lotion or ointment. THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Fresh pomegranate fruit contains methionine and betaine, which aid in the digestive systems detoxify process. Drug Metab Dispos. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Its essential to see a healthcare provider, especially if you have any other concerning symptoms, like jaundice or pain. Alternatively, you may also apply aloe vera gel to soothe itching and redness caused by pomegranate. Chapter 5: disease of the gallbladder and biliary tree. Heavy infestation leads to stunting or week tree. The former may point to blood in your stools (that's a bad symptom - ulcers . Effects of Concentrated Pomegranate Juice on Subclinical Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes: A Quasi-Experimental Study, International Journal of Endocrinology Metabolism, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. Black, tarry stools are usually a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, due, for . However, there is limited information in this regard. It can cause some gastric issues. If you recently started a new medication, check with your doctor if you get constipated. I don't know what to do anymore and I don't have health insurance. If someone is bleeding in the stomach or bowels, the stool may look dark or black. Rhabdomyoglobinuria is characterized by dark red urine, fatigue, muscle aches, and joint pain. Pomegranate does not cause dark stools. 2011;17(2):113-115. doi:10.1016/j.ctcp.2010.09.004, Wang D, zen C, Abu-Reidah IM, et al. In some cases, dark stool may be a symptom of a life-threatening condition that should be immediately evaluated in an emergency setting. You can get a darker-colored stool if you drink such in large amounts. Other common symptoms include: . She then went on to graduated from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Sciences/The Chicago Medical School (2007) where she served on the Executive Student Council, as well as was the alternate delegate to the AMA/ISMS-MSS G Assistant Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine at Boston University School of Medicine. Pomegranates are high in nutrients but low in calories. Treatment depends on the cause and ranges from dietary changes to surgery. Effects of pomegranate juice on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Aphids are carried by ants from one plant to another. Consuming a high fiber diet has been linked to an easier digestive system. Bloody or tarry stools. In a small study, 30 people used either a pomegranate dental rinse, an antiseptic dental rinse, or water. Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. The content available on buoy.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Does Prune Juice Change Stool Color Pomegranates are the fruit of the Punica granatum tree. Once the underlying cause is diagnosed, it is important for you to follow the treatment plan that you and your health care professional design specifically for you to reduce the risk of potential complications including: Copyright 2023 Healthgrades Marketplace, LLC, Patent US Nos. Laxatives may be used to treat constipation. Although the seeds are healthy and safe to eat, they should be thoroughly chewed in order to maintain their freshness. Review any supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications. This article reviews research on pomegranate juice's uses, benefits, side effects, and interactions. 2018;33(33). MedlinePlus. The juice may reduce blood pressure way too much, especially if someone is on antihypertensive drugs (, Pomegranates can also trigger allergic reactions in people who are susceptible to apples and birch pollen, and such people should avoid the fruit. 2017;17(1):156. doi:10.1186/s12906-017-1667-6, Stowe CB. What medications and supplements are you taking? Pomegranate can interact with certain medications and cause undesirable side effects. Manuelpillai. The level of bleeding can range from mild to severe and can be life-threatening. Links will be auto-linked. This article explains what's normal and abnormal with regard to stool color. Because of their high fiber content, pomegranates can treat constipation as well as prevent it. These include: Bleeding esophageal varices (life-threatening rupture and hemorrhage of swollen veins in the esophagus, Intussusception (telescoping of the intestines into themselves), Mallory-Weiss tear (a tear in the lining of the esophagus from severe vomiting or coughing), Perforated peptic ulcer (bleeding stomach or intestinal ulcer). Everyone poops. Dr. Glucose consumption in the body is regulated by fiber, which also aids in the regulation of blood sugar and hunger. You may use . Constipation is relieved when pomegranate seeds are consumed because they are fiber-rich. But you have the ability to take control of your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Monk Fruit: Nutrition, Benefits, And Side Monk Fruit: Nutrition, Benefits, And Side Effects. He has written over 300 articles about ingredients and their benefits for the skin, hair, and health. If you are on any form of medication, please check with your doctor if you can consume pomegranate. Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, Sunflower Seed Butter: A Delicious And Nutritious Alternative To Peanut Butter. Look out for other symptoms like chest pain, drowsiness, confusion, fainting, and wheezing. Iron supplements, taken alone or as part of a multivitamin for iron-deficiency anemia, may cause black stools or green stools. There is no scientific evidence to support this claim, and it is likely due to the pomegranate juice's dark color. In some cases, it may be caused by digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Pomegranates are frequently consumed as part of a diet, but they can also cause diarrhea, constipation, and indigestion. But certain people should exercise caution. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). The Healthgrades Editorial Staff is an experienced team of in-house editors, writers and content producers. 2006;98(5):705-706. doi:10.1016/j.amjcard.2006.03.057, Kim H, Yoon YJ, Shon JH, et al. Sci Rep.2019;9:3760.doi:10.1038/s41598-019-40178-5. However, some people have reported that it can cause black stool. Assistant Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine at Boston University School of Medicine Last updated September 6, 2022 2 Share Copied to clipboard She was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at age 16. Need a Telehealth Visit? We are committed to providing our audience with actionable content and tools to help them make the best decision when it comes to choosing a healthcare professional. What medications do pomegranates interfere with? These include: blueberries dark leafy vegetables black licorice Oreo cookies grape juice It is also possible for Pepto-Bismol to cause your stool to appear black. Much of the research on pomegranate and pomegranate juice is preliminary. It may also be an indication of colon cancer. Research supports some health claims but has also found some safety concerns. If stool is black and has a bad odor, it is likely a sign of bleeding, from a peptic ulcer, gastritis, inflammation, colon polyps, or colon cancer. Scroll down and take a look.SaveIllustration: StyleCraze Design Team. Common foods known to do this include licorice, blueberries, beets, anything with food coloring, and food made with blood (i.e., blood sausage). It is fine to try increasing fluid intake if you think it is from dehydration. Here are 10 tips for living with IBS to get you started. Disease emergence is favored by rainfall and water saturated soil. 2019;54(3):141-148. doi:10.14744/TurkPediatriArs.2018.00483. Sophisticated imaging technology, when needed, can usually locate the cause of the bleeding. These changes are usually harmless and temporary. Pregnant women may also get constipation due to the hormonal changes. Kasrga E. The importance of stool tests in diagnosis and follow-up of gastrointestinal disorders in children. Find qualified telemedicine providers for a variety of symptoms and conditions. Blueberries and cherries Cherries can turn the stool reddish, while blueberriescan paint your poo shades of deep blue or even black. It sure tastes delicious, but you never want to consume this fruit in excess. FoodData Central. IBS can have different symptoms depending on the person, but most experience abdominal cramps or discomfort. If your symptoms involve a skin condition, do not rub or scratch the area. A bleeding ulcer is the most common concerning cause of dark stools. There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of liver or gallbladder disease and, in turn, the development of acholia: An occasional clay-colored stool isnt usually a concern. Children often complain of abdominal pain or pain when trying to pass a stool. Check with your child's pediatrician for suggestions on juice consumption for different age groups. Many foods or medications may naturally cause your stool to change colors, including dark brown or black. A gastric or stomach ulcer is an open and painful sore on the stomach lining that can cause bleeding and melena. This leads to reduce in market value of fruits. Pomegranate does not cause dark stools. The best treatment is prevention. Does pomegranate juice aggravate diabetes? If you're a cranberry fan, read on to learn more about the benefits of drinking this delicious beverage. Frequency not reported: Nausea, vomiting . Dosage: How Much Pomegranate Juice Should I Take? When it comes to poop colors, there are different shades of normal. J Ethnopharmacology. It can indicate blood in the stool and may be a more serious gastrointestinal tract issue. Oncol Rev. Had you eaten any dark-colored foods prior to developing dark stool? Manuelpillai. Yes, pomegranate juice can make you poop dark. Browning means it's likely past its prime. Allison Herries, RDN, is a registered dietitian focused on preventing and managing chronic diseases through healthy lifestyle changes. 2020;49:102358. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102358, Zarfeshany A, Asgary S, Javanmard SH. Tests to determine the cause of a GI bleed or to diagnose IBS. This may be due to pomegranates blocking an enzyme in the intestines, allowing you to absorb more medication. Vegetable Oil: Nutrition Facts And Differences. The many vitamins, minerals, and fiber benefit your health in many ways. Postgrad Med J. 5. Dark stool can also be a sign of serious liver disease that can lead to enlargement of the veins in the esophagus, which can break and bleed. Santos Silva E, Moreira Silva H, Azevedo Lijnzaat L, et al. Grapefruit juice may have similar properties as pomegranate juice. Bile is a yellow, brownish, or olive-green liquidconsisting of acids that break down fats so that they can be absorbed by the body. Omnivorous leafroller (Platynota stultana) adult. Western leaf-footed bug (Leptoglossus clypealis) adult. However, there are no scientific studies to back this up. Taking this juice with these medications may cause blood pressure to go too low. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Pomegranates can assist people with heart problems as well as bowel movements because the majority of their components help with this. These are some of the probable ill effects of pomegranates. citrophilus mealybug sucking sap from fruit, citrophilus mealybug (Pseudococcus calceolariae) on pomegranate fruit. Furthermore, the presence of water in the stool may soften it, resulting in diarrhea or poop. Does pomegranate juice interact with any medications? Keep it whole until you're ready to eat it. Include more fiber-rich foods in your diet. In addition, sometimes vomiting can cause a tear in the esophagus that can lead to bleeding that turns the poop black. Since research is limited in this regard, it is important you speak to your doctor. If you notice a change in stool color accompanied by abdominal pain or a change in your bowel habits, see a doctor. 2013;33(5):341-348. doi:10.1016/j.nutres.2013.03.003, Eghbali S, Askari SF, Avan R, et al. If youve ever felt too uncomfortable to eat much of anything, youre not alone. I have really bad cramps plus I am about to double over and fall to the floor that is how much I hurt. Yes, pomegranate can rejuvenate your body right in the morning. The excessive consumption of pomegranate may cause many disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea in some people. When related to foods, blueberries, beets, or black licorice are often the cause. Animal studies and human clinical trials have noted no severe side effects, including toxicity. There are several reasons why bile levels are decreased. Amber J. Tresca is a freelance writer and speaker who covers digestive conditions, including IBD. If the liver is involved, you may be advised to avoid drinking alcohol. The arils may also be mushy, unlike how juicy and plump they are when fully ripe. Studies suggest pomegranate juice may help ward off infections. Therefore, if you are on such medications, it is best to consult with your doctor, pharmacist, and dietitian to make sure there are not any interactions.. 1 Foods that are dark blue, black, or green may darken your bowel movements. Here is what different stool colors possibly mean: The biliary system consists of the gallbladder, liver, and pancreas which work together to aid with digestion. If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you understand all too well how the condition can affect your lifefrom work and travel plans to personal relationships. Quintessence International. Studies show that pomegranates can lower blood pressure levels (5). Black stool can result when a person eats certain foods, such as licorice or takes iron supplements. It also appeared to inhibit the growth of germs that contribute to periodontitis (an inflammatory gum disease). Differential Diagnosis in Primary Care, 5th ed. This can lead to dependence on them. Abrasions on the skin don't affect its quality. As a result, the water content also softens the stool, causing you to poop or suffer from diarrhea. According to Yelena Wheeler, Pomegranate can interact with some blood thinning and hypertensive medications. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits. The pomegranate tree is branched and spiny with glossy, leathery, oval to oblong leaves that grow in whorls of five or more on the branches. Polyol (sugar alcohol) can be found in fruits (sweetener juice, pear juice, apple juice), as well as plants (sweetener juice, apple juice). Pomegranate fruit is high in dietary fiber and vitamin E as well as other nutrients. To do this, liquify pomegranate seeds in a blender. StyleCraze provides content of general nature that is designed for informational purposes only. More research is needed to confirm these claims. 7,752,060 and 8,719,052. Pomegranates may even turn your feces black, but this is not a cause for concern. Polyphagous insect. How much pomegranate should you eat per day? It is possible that certain foods will cause your stool to turn black. Pomegranate juice may also help relieve constipation. Daily intake of pomegranates can help promote heart health, improve digestion, and even enhance health of the prostate (9). Difficulty emptying your bowels or feeling blocked, Having fewer than three bowel movements in a week, Upper abdominal (burning) pain that gets worse after eating. To diagnose your condition, your doctor or licensed health care practitioner will ask you several questions related to your dark stool including: When did you first notice your dark stools? Dr. Grapefruit has been found to have antimicrobial, antiparasitic, insecticidal, antioxidant, and cardiovascular effects. The final stage larvae come out of the hole and pupate by spinning the web. If you are concerned about black stool, speak to your doctor. 2018;9:544. doi:10.3389/fphar.2018.00544. Our goal is to help people live healthier, happier lives by eating real food. Summary. There is no definitive cause of IBS, but it could be caused by abnormal muscle movements in the gut. Frequently asked questions. Bhadbhade SJ, Acharya AB, Rodrigues SV, et al. Refrigeration can keep it fresh for up to three months. Read our. Overuse or prolonged use of laxatives can cause decreased bowel function, like your bowels natural ability to contract. He has been in the digital media field for over eight years. Am J Cardiol. Dark stool may be caused by foods or medications by bleeding within the digestive tract. Jinan Banna, PhD, RD, is the founder of Jinan Banna LLC and an Associate Professor of Nutrition at the University of Hawaii, where she performs research in obesity prevention. While red stool may be caused by ingesting certain foods or medications, red stool can indicate an internal problem. Diagnosis and management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. If these approaches dont work or if you are concerned about other possible causes, such as IBS, GI bleeding, or cancer, discuss it with your doctor. This is not a serious side effect and will usually go away on its own. Try our AI assistant here. It may have use in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Insect lay eggs on weeds near the field in the off season. Since this fruit juice has a dark color, it can also affect the color of your stool. Can I eat pomegranate on an empty stomach? Pomegranate juice is a popular, healthy drink. Other causes include indigestion, a stomach ulcer, IBS, or food poisoning. The dark color is due to the high concentration of anthocyanins in pomegranate, which can bind to the stool and cause it to appear black. Pomegranate may interfere with medications like Carbamazepine (Tegretol), Rosuvastatin (Crestor), Warfarin (Coumadin), and Tolbutamide (Orinase). Cranberries, tomatoes, beets, and foods that have been dyed red are examples of red foods. Pomegranate juice may also interact negatively with some medications. Topical Application of Aloe vera Accelerated Wound Healing, Modeling, and Remodeling: An Experimental Study, PubMed, Therapeutic Effects of Punica granatum (Pomegranate): An Updated Review of Clinical Trials. All Rights Reserved. He is the vice chair for ambulatory services for the department of medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York. Green stools are not a big deal (as a rule) and not a reason to worry. Gastric ulcers. Toxic chemicals can be found in many regions of the . Pomegranate fruit contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including folate, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and manganese, all of which are required for our health and well-being. Severe abdominal pain/cramping with or without vomiting or being unable to eat or drink. Reda is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu brown belt, Ravi Teja Tadimalla is an editor and a published author. Hi, Im Caralee Fontenele! 1. Among the liver diseases that can trigger acholia are: Once produced by the liver, bile is secreted through tiny canals into a structure called the common bile duct. How would you describe their color and consistency? 6 Risks of Not Treating Eosinophilic Esophagitis, Burning Diarrhea: Possible Causes and How to Find Relief. If constipation does not go away despite making dietary changes, such as increasing fiber intake, see a doctor. Some people also may experience whats known as chronic constipation. Sometimes constipation is due to an underlying problem that should be addressed first. Constipation is when you have less than three bowel movements a week or if its incredibly hard to push stool out when you go to the bathroom. An error occurred, please try again later. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Pomegranate has been studied for its effects on lowering inflammation, improving heart health, and more. Call your doctor if you have green, yellow, orange, clay-colored, bright red, dark red, or black stools. 2013;2013:789764. doi:10.1155/2013/789764, Hidaka M, Okumura M, Fujita K, et al. Bleeding in the digestive tract. Pomegranate is available in many forms, including: Labels often suggest a daily dose of eight ounces for adults. This is good news for most people. MedlinePlus, a service of the National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health. Diarrhea is the most common side effect of pomegranate juice. Slower bleeds are less serious, but you should go directly to an emergency department if you are vomiting or have bright red stool, experience symptoms of anemia, or develop any worrying symptoms like chest pain. Learn how food triggers can make symptoms worse and ways a six food elimination diet can help. Its nutrients are absorbed better when taken on an empty stomach. Pomegranate is a fruit that has many health benefits. Pomegranate juice may interact with other medications, such as: It is essential to carefully read a supplement's ingredient list and nutrition facts panel to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included. 2018;26(2S):S61-S71. Upper GI bleeds tend to be from gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) or ulcers but there are other causes as well. Diarrhea. In dry season insect can invade roots and suck sap. Turk Pediatri Ars. Recap Normal stools are usually a light brown to dark brown color. Very common pests in Asia. The insect infect all parts of the plant. Healthgrades Can Help. It's merely the color of your mealnot blood. Especially when you have a sensitive stomach, this fruit can cause stomach discomfort and pain, caused by conditions like indigestion. Likewise, you may need to change your diet if a healthcare provider believes malabsorption is a contributing factor. When it comes to color, there are those that are inherently normal and others that may signal a health concern. Any food containing natural or artificial coloring components might cause changes in your stool color. Some people choose to make their own fresh pomegranate juice. Hence, stop pomegranate intake at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery. For example, if medications or supplements are suspected causes, you may need to adjust or switch which drugs you take. Darkening of the stool may be a normal occurrence related to specific foods or medications; however, it can sometimes be a sign of a more serious condition such as bleeding in the intestinal tract. Most cases of dark brown stool can be managed with your doctor. Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur: Less common or rare Chest tightness cough difficulty with swallowing dizziness fast heartbeat Bile, a fluid created in the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and released into the small intestine, is one of the key compounds that enable this. 9th edition, Diagnosis and management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Eating, diet, and nutrition for gallstones, The importance of stool tests in diagnosis and follow-up of gastrointestinal disorders in children, Liver diseases, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, Bile duct obstruction, including gallstones, Large doses of medications containing bismuth subsalicylate, such as Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol, Foods that pass too quickly through the digestive tract, such as due to diarrhea, Eating green leafy vegetables like spinach or with artificial green food coloring, A malabsorption disorder, such as celiac disease, Giardiasis, an intestinal parasitic infection, Eating food with a lot of carotenes (like carrots) or turmeric, Bleeding in the lower digestive tract, such as due to hemorrhoids, Eating beets, lots of cranberries or tomatoes, or foods with artificial red food coloring, Bleeding in the upper digestive tract, due to everything from stomach ulcers to colon cancer.