The red flags that may be hiding in your poop
Summary
NPR’s Shortwave features gastroenterologist Dr. Tricia Pasricha discussing how stool color and consistency can signal health issues, from rare silver poop to early-onset colon cancer. The episode covers the Bristol Stool Scale, warning signs like blood or pale stool, and the link between ultra-processed foods and rising cancer rates in young adults. Dr. Pasricha also offers tips for gut health, emphasizing fiber and fermented foods to nourish the microbiome.
Topics discussed
Intro and sponsor messages
The rare case of silver poop
Rising colon cancer rates in young adults
Episode overview and sponsors
Understanding the Bristol Stool Scale
Red flags: Blood, pain, and habit changes
Dietary causes for stool color changes
Life hack: Reducing gas odor with Pepto
Ultra-processed foods and early-onset cancer
Feeding your microbiome with fiber and probiotics
Outro, credits, and final sponsors
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