Small, separated lumps, hard (pebble-like) texture and difficult to pass.

• Constipation is indicated by hard, dry stools, likely due to insufficient intake of fiber and water.
• Cut back on eating protein-rich foods like meat and dairy products. Drink more water (at least 8 cups a day) and boost dietary fiber by eating more fruit, leafy vegetables and brown rice. 

Sausage-like shape but texture is hard and lumpy.

• Indicates constipation resulting from too little consumption of fiber and water.        
• Avoid eating too much protein from meat and dairy products. Increase drinking water and fiber in diet, add more leafy vegetables, brown rice and fruit.

Cylindrical in shape with cracks on the outer surface.  

• Surface cracks and dryness indicate insufficient intake of water and other fluids.
• Increase water and fluid intake.

Stools are cylindrical in shape (resembling sausage) and texture is smooth and soft.

• This is the gold standard for stools and an indicator of good eating habits and a general state of wellness.           
• Good stool news is meant to be shared, so tell your family and friends about your healthy dietary habits and encourage them to make positive changes.

Soft, round blobs with smooth edges. Waste is easy to pass.

• Indicates something is causing food to pass through the colon too quickly. This may cause dehydration and reduce nutrient absorption.
• Be sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet and consider adding yogurt to help balance intestinal bacteria.

Mushy, loose and fluffy in texture and with uneven edges, easy to pass.

• May signify an allergy to certain foods or may be due to a bacterial imbalance in the colon, leading to dehydration     and malnutrition.
• Consider a short-term change in the types of fiber-rich foods consumed. Reduce fruits, fruit juice and leafy vegetables while increasing consumption of whole-grain foods.
• Include yogurt to help restore intestinal bacteria balance.

Watery, liquid consistency throughout. No solid pieces.

• You may have a GI infection or other digestive problem that should be examined by your doctor.            
• A doctor’s visit is necessary. Follow your doctor’s advice, which may include recommendations for eating freshly-cooked foods that are easily digested (e.g. brown rice soup, vegetable soup). Drink plenty of water and fluids containing electrolytes to prevent dehydration.