What Cause Black Poop? Is it Normal

Black poop can have many indications that are healthy and unhealthy. It's important to look at the big picture prior to panicking. The ideal color of poop is roughly the color of cardboard, should exit the body with no effort or straining. Black poop that is of a thick consistency may be due to bleeding in the digestive track. Duodenal or gastric ulcers, Mallory Weiss tear, esophageal varices and gastritis are all conditions that can lead to dark, black tar-like poop.

Before wondering if you have a serious underlying condition let's view some other reasons that may be the cause of your black poop.

Foods, Supplements and Medications

Most people do not realize that bismuth, commonly known under the trade name Pepto Bismol is a leading cause of black poop. Other medications that cause black poop are NSAIDS and aspirin. NSAIDS and aspirin can cause bleeding in the stomach which will lead to dark, tar-like black poop. Supplements that cause black poop are Iron and activated charcoal. Black licorice and blueberries are two foods that lead to black stool, along with many other dark foods.

There are many reasons why one may exhibit black poop, and it is never good to assume that it is normal or of no concern. If the black poop remains after stopping any of the general items listed above there may be underlying causes from treatable digestive conditions to more severe digestive conditions such as cancer.

If you are experiencing black poop and you have not taken any medications that have the adverse effect of black poop, eaten large quantities of dark colored foods or are on any supplements that cause dark black stools you should consult with your medical care provider immediately. If you are taking aspirin or NSAIDS and experience black stools it may be wise to stop taking the medications and consult with your medical care provider. If you are prescribed these medications consult with your medical care provider prior to stopping any medications.

Source

Medline Plus: Blood or Tarry Stools