Postprandial diarrhea can be acute or chronic. Acute diarrhea typically resolves within 1-2 days. Chronic diarrhea may indicate serious health conditions
Chart assesses stool shape and consistency on a 1-7 scale. Normal stools fall between 3-4 on the scale. Used by healthcare providers to diagnose GI conditions
Normal bowel movements range from 3 to 4 times weekly. Everyone has a unique bowel rhythm. Changes in bowel habits should be noted
Excess fat in stool causing pale, oily appearance and foul smell. Often results from blocked bile secretion or impaired fat absorption. Can be caused by diet, medications, or malabsorption disorders
BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) helps create firmer stools. Probiotics in yogurt and kefir may regulate bowel movements. Avoid fatty foods, dairy, spicy foods, and high-fiber foods
Defecation eliminates waste from digestive tract via anus or cloaca. Peristalsis moves fecal matter through colon to rectum. External anal sphincter is voluntary, internal is involuntary. Frequency varies from few times daily to weekly