7 important things your poop is trying to tell you about your health

Ah, poop. The thing every single one of us do (including, in fact, the ladies of the world, aren’t you shocked!!), but attempt to avoid talking about. But why shouldn’t we talk about poop? While we might say that the eyes are the window to the soul, if anything, your poop has a whole lot more to say. And here’s a few things your poop is trying to tell you.

1. Whether or not you have cancer

OK, OK, before you get freaked out, this symptom does NOT always mean you have cancer — but it could. Finding blood in your poop can be a sign of hemorrhoids or anal fissures, but it could also be pre-cancerous colon polyps, and, yes, cancer, Everyday Health says. So if you’re having bloody stool, get it checked out ASAP!

2. That you’re not drinking enough water

We can set up all the reminder apps on our phones in the world, but we still forget to drink enough water! Luckily, our poop is quick to remind us… or, actually, slow. Dealing with constipation is a sign that you’re dehydrated, so make sure you’re drinking water regularly throughout the day to avoid this awful problem.

3. That you might have Celiac disease

If your poop is yellow, and also sort of bizarrely greasy and smellier than usual, you might have Celiac disease! Another thing that should push you to make an appointment with the doctor. Thanks, poop!

4. That you’re doing an awesome job taking care of your body!

As Gizmodo says, if your poop is “sausage-shaped, with a smooth, velvety surface and encased in mucus,” you actually have ideal poop. Yum! Go you!

5. That you need more fiber in your life ASAP

Are you consistently pooping out hard, tiny nuggets? Time to grab some veggies and up your fiber, HuffPost says.

6. That you’re full of gas

Like, literally. Prevention says that if your poop is floating more than it sinks (what awesome images, right guys?), you probably have excess gas in your digestive tract. They recommend getting your poop checked out by your doctor to make sure you’re not having absorption issues.

7. That you have a parasite

Again, don’t panic! But if you’ve been taking your butt on new adventures (like a lake or a campsite) you could have giardia, a parasite that causes diarrhea and poop that smells like sulfur.

Happy potty times, everyone!