Frequency:
While bowel habits can vary from person to person, it is important to establish a regular pattern. Most people have bowel movements three times a day to three times a week. Significant changes in frequency, such as persistent constipation or diarrhea, may require further evaluation by a healthcare professional.
Smell:
Let’s face it – poo doesn’t always smell nice. However, extremely foul-smelling stools may indicate digestive problems or the presence of certain bacteria in the gut. Pay attention to any changes in smell, especially if they persist over time.
Size and shape:
The size and shape of your stools can give clues about your gut health. Healthy stools are usually well formed and pass easily. If your stools are consistently small, hard, or pellet-like, it could indicate constipation or a lack of fiber in your diet.
Mucus:
Although it may sound alarming, the presence of mucus in the stool is relatively common and usually not a cause for concern. Mucus helps lubricate the digestive tract and protect the lining of the intestines. However, excessive or persistent mucus in the stool may indicate inflammation or infection in the gastrointestinal tract and may require further evaluation.
