It is undeniable that poop, stool, and feces all have an unpleasant odor. Though the foul odor of poo is normal, what exactly makes it stink so bad?
Poop Smell Explained
According to Shelby Taceczko, a clinical dietician from UCLA Health, feces generally do not have a good smell due to how they release digestion byproducts. Moreover, clinical professor Emma Laing, who serves as the director of dietetics at the University of Georgia and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics spokesperson, explains that Skatole, or 3-methylindole, is one of the compounds found in feces that give the excrement its foul odor.
Over 10,000 species of microbes live in humans, with more cells of bacteria compared to human ones. Such microorganisms are crucial to one's digestion and are largely responsible for the foul odor of stool. Different kinds of bacteria release various gases depending on the substances and foods that they break down, as explained by Laing. The bacteria in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract factor into this process.
Due to how bacteria break down what is consumed, factors including alcohol intake, dietary patterns, prescription medication, and dietary supplements may affect the smell of poop. Sugar alcohols that are typically used in candies are also capable of making poop smell awful. Moreover, foods containing sulfate, such as cabbage, eggs, meat, and onions, can also affect sulfuric acid production during digestion. This production process yields the smell of a rotten egg.
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When Poop Is Stinkier Than Usual
Yaceczko adds that foods that are highly sugary and processed may also be hard to digest, prompting bacteria to produce more gas and, in turn, stinkier feces. On top of this, large alcohol consumption could also yield smellier poop due to how it brings chaos to the digestive process and intestines.
If one observes changes or worsening in stool smell, this is likely because of diet or medication changes. Eventually, the digestive process ends up adjusting. This worse smell usually does not persist.
However, an awfully foul smell, such as a rotten or putrid smell, that does not fade away could signify a pressing health concern. Malabsorption conditions, including celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, could hamper the body's digestion and absorption of nutrients. This could lead to odors that are consistently foul.
Moreover, a bacterial or viral gut infection could also be the culprit. These motility disorders make the gastrointestinal tract take more time to empty. This prolongs the fermentation of the poop, which could make it stinkier.
If a foul poop smell that is unusual persists, especially if it is coupled with other symptoms including stool blood, diarrhea, fever, or abdominal pain, it is recommended to see a doctor.
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