Foods and Supplements That Can Turn Your Bowel Movements Dark

Stools that appear very dark in color can be alarming. But a change to the color of your poop doesn’t necessarily indicate a serious health problem, and in many cases it’s caused by something you ate.

Let’s take a look at some foods and supplements that can potentially turn your bowel movements dark.

1. Iron Supplements

A common culprit behind color changes in bowel movements is iron supplementation.

2. Antacid Medications

3. Colorful Foods

While it’s certainly a good idea to “eat the rainbow,” don’t be alarmed if your healthy habits show up in your stool.

It Might Be Because You Have Diarrhea

If you are experiencing diarrhea, your stools may be greener or lighter than usual, regardless of what you’ve been eating. That’s because bile, a fluid your liver produces to digest fat, starts off as a yellow-green color.

When to See a Doctor

Stools that are brown, tan, yellow, or green are typically normal. But stools that are black, red, or white may indicate a problem.

“Black stool or bright red stool (in any amount — specks, streaks, etc.) should prompt medical attention,” says Lindsey Albenberg, DO, an attending physician in the division of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

If you haven’t eaten any foods or taken supplements recently that would cause this change in stool color, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

The Takeaway

• Certain foods and supplements, including iron pills, antacids, and colorful foods, can cause your stool to turn dark, but it is generally a harmless side effect.
• If you experience unexplained black or bloody stools, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out serious conditions like gastrointestinal bleeding or a peptic ulcer.
• While many cases of colored stools are normal, if you experience additional symptoms like lightheadedness, dizziness, or vomiting blood, see your doctor right away.