When you have an ileostomy, you might notice that sometimes the output from your stoma is green. This can be a bit surprising, so let's explore what might be causing this and what you can do about it.
- The color of your output can be influenced by what you eat. Foods like spinach, other green leafy vegetables, grape juice, tomato soup, sweet potatoes, and beef can all tint your output green, just like they look when you eat them.
- If you have a fast transit time, which is common with an ileostomy, bile might not have enough time to change color. Bile is naturally green and usually turns brown as it moves through the digestive system.
- Even if you haven't eaten much, your body continues to produce bile, which can make the output appear green.
- Sometimes, supplements or anything new you've ingested, including pouch deodorants, can alter the color of your stool. It's a good idea to check if you've started using anything new.
- Seeing green output occasionally is usually nothing to worry about. However, if it happens frequently, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor to make sure everything is okay.
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