Skip to main content
Get Care MyChart Find a Provider Find a Location

Go ahead, get your laughs out now. But the fact is: everyone poops, and what goes in, must come out. Inspecting the consistency of your stool is a great way to determine how well your bodily systems are working to absorb nutrients and eliminate waste. The Bristol Stool chart is a helpful tool that categorizes stool based on shape and consistency, and illustrates what's normal (or not) when it comes to your poop.

 

 

 

 


Courtesy National Institute of Health

Based on these illustrations: types 1 and 2 indicate constipation and types 6 and 7 indicate diarrhea. Therefore, normal stool consistency can range from type 3 to 5, with type 4 being the ideal bowel movement. Here are some things to consider if you're struggling with getting the right consistency:

  • Eat more fiber. Adults should aim for 25-35 grams daily from fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes, nuts and whole grains.
  • Drink more water. Normal stools depend on adequate water intake, so choose water as your primary beverage.
  • Manage stress. Stress can cause constipation and/or diarrhea. Learning your triggers and managing your stress is important for normal stools.
  • Exercise. Your intestinal tract is made of muscle tissue, so regular exercise will promote healthy bowels, too.
  • Decrease your caffeine.
  • Consider a taking a probiotic or eating fermented foods (sauerkraut, kefir, kimchee, pickled foods, tempeh, etc.).
  • Watch for diarrhea-promoting food culprits: dairy, artificial sweeteners and fatty foods.

Keeping a daily record of food and fluid intake, along with a description of your bowel movements can help identify problems and potential solutions. Always call your primary care provider if the frequency and consistency of your stools concerns you.

Have you been screened for colon cancer?

FIT testing can save your life! FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) is an easy, reliable method to use for colon cancer screening. No special diet or test preparation—just a stool sample taken at home. Screening is important to help detect blood in your stool which can be associated with cancer. Ask your primary care provider about getting screened with FIT.

Related articles

Allergy Season

When to talk to your doctor about seasonal allergies

If seasonal allergy symptoms like itchy, watery eyes and a runny nose put a damper on your spring fun, Dr. Christopher Tookey has some tips and treatments that can provide
Alcohol's impact on the mind and body.

Under the influence: The effects of alcohol on the body

From the first sip to long-term habits, learn the stark realities of how alcohol affects your body and your physical and mental health.
5 ways to kick the common cold

5 ways to kick the common cold

If the thought of congestion, sniffling and body aches is your worst nightmare, have no fear—there are plenty of simple steps you can take to keep yourself healthy and avoid
Bariatric surgery - what you need to know.

Everything you need to know about bariatric surgery—and more!

What is bariatric surgery and is it an option for me? The bariatric surgeons at Gundersen Health System can help answer those questions and more.

1900 South Ave.
La Crosse, WI 54601

(608) 782-7300

Language Support:
Jump back to top