Poop Smells Like Metal? We’ve Got Answers!

Last Updated: December 11, 2022

Poop, or feces, is a waste product that is eliminated from the body as a result of the digestive process. One of the most notable characteristics of poop is its smell, which can vary depending on a number of factors.

Some people may notice that their poop has a metallic or sulfur-like odor, which can be concerning. VeganLiftz will explore the possible reasons why poop might have a metallic or sulfur-like odor, as well as the potential health implications of this phenomenon.

Why Does My Poop Smell Like Metal?

One possible reason for a metallic or sulfur-like odor in poop is the presence of certain chemicals in the digestive system.

When food is digested, it is broken down into smaller molecules that can be absorbed and used by the body for energy and nutrition. However, some of the substances found in food are not easily digested and are eliminated from the body as waste.

These substances can include chemicals that have a metallic or sulfur-like odor, such as heavy metals and sulfur-containing compounds.

Exposure to heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, and arsenic, can occur through a variety of sources, including contaminated water and air, as well as certain foods and medications.

In the body, heavy metals can interfere with the normal functioning of the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. In severe cases, heavy metal toxicity can cause damage to the liver, kidneys, and other organs.

Why Does My Poop Smell Like Sulfer?

Sulfur-containing compounds, such as sulfates and sulfides, are also commonly found in the environment and can be present in food and water.

These compounds are typically harmless, but in large amounts, they can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

In addition, the breakdown of sulfur-containing compounds in the digestive system can produce gases that have a characteristic rotten egg-like odor.

Another possible reason for a metallic or sulfur-like odor in poop is the presence of bacteria in the digestive system. The digestive system is home to a complex community of microorganisms, known as the gut microbiome, which play a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing disease.

However, certain types of bacteria can produce substances that have a metallic or sulfur-like odor, such as hydrogen sulfide.

Why Does Poop Smell Like Eggs?

Hydrogen sulfide is a gas that is produced by bacteria in the gut as a byproduct of the breakdown of proteins. This gas has a characteristic rotten egg-like odor and can be present in feces.

In large amounts, hydrogen sulfide can be toxic and can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

In some cases, a metallic or sulfur-like odor in poop may be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition.

For example, chronic liver disease, such as cirrhosis, can cause a buildup of waste products in the body, including substances that have a metallic or sulfur-like odor.

In addition, certain infections, such as bacterial or parasitic infections, can also cause changes in the odor of feces.

Is Smelly Poop A Sign Of Bad Health?

If you are concerned about the odor of your poop, it is important to talk to your doctor.

Your doctor can help determine the underlying cause of the odor and recommend appropriate treatment.

In some cases, treatment may involve addressing any underlying health conditions or infections, as well as making dietary changes to support a healthy gut microbiome.

Poop can have a metallic or sulfur-like odor due to the presence of certain chemicals and bacteria in the digestive system. While this phenomenon is usually harmless, it can be a sign of an underlying health condition in some cases.

If you are concerned about the odor of your poop, it is important to speak with your doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

How Do I Make My Poop Not Stink?

Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is the key to preventing stinky poop. By eating a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, you can ensure that your digestive system is functioning properly and producing solid, non-smelly stools. In addition to a healthy diet, there are several other strategies you can use to keep your poop from being stinky.

Drink plenty of water. Water is essential for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing constipation, which can lead to stinky poop. Aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day to keep your digestive system hydrated and functioning properly.
Exercise regularly. Regular physical activity can help stimulate your digestive system and prevent constipation. This can help keep your poop from becoming hard and difficult to pass, which can lead to stinky stools. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day, such as brisk walking or cycling.
Avoid processed and high-fat foods. Processed foods and foods high in fat can be difficult for your body to digest, leading to stinky poop. Try to limit your intake of processed snacks, fast food, and high-fat meats, and opt instead for whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Consume probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in your gut and help with digestion. Consuming probiotics through supplements or fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi can help keep your gut microbiome balanced and prevent stinky poop.
Don’t hold it in. When you feel the urge to go, don’t hold it in. Holding in your poop can cause it to become hard and difficult to pass, leading to stinky stools. Make a habit of going to the bathroom when you feel the urge, and try to go at regular intervals to keep your poop from becoming too hard.
Use natural remedies. There are several natural remedies you can try to help prevent stinky poop. For example, drinking peppermint tea can help soothe your digestive system and prevent constipation. Other natural remedies include taking supplements like magnesium and psyllium husk, which can help keep your poop regular and prevent stinky stools.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your poop from being stinky involves maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, avoiding processed and high-fat foods, consuming probiotics, not holding it in, and using natural remedies.

By following these tips, you can keep your digestive system functioning properly and prevent stinky poop!

Q&A With Dr Craig Gastrologist

Jason: Welcome, Dr. Craig, a board-certified gastroenterologist. We’re here to discuss a rather unusual topic today – metallic-smelling stool. Many of our readers have expressed concerns about this. Could you shed some light on it?

Dr. Craig: Certainly, Jason. A metallic smell in stool can be disconcerting. This odor can be due to various factors, ranging from diet to underlying medical conditions.

Jason: What might cause this unmistakable smell in someone’s poop?

Dr. Craig: The most common cause is dietary. Consuming sulfur-rich foods or a diet high in certain nutrients like excess iron can lead to a metallic smell. In some cases, it’s benign and related to what you eat.

Jason: Are there any more serious conditions that can cause this kind of foul smelling stool?

Dr. Craig: Yes, there are. Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can cause changes in bowel movements, including a foul, metallic odor. Similarly, bacterial overgrowth or infections in the digestive tract can lead to smelly stool.

Jason: Does this symptom alone indicate a serious condition like colorectal cancer or internal bleeding?

Dr. Craig: Not necessarily. But if the metallic smell is accompanied by other symptoms like bright red blood on toilet paper, smelly substances in the stool, or unexpected weight loss, it could be a sign of more serious conditions like colorectal cancer or internal bleeding.

Jason: What should someone do if they notice a foul smelling poop that also has a metallic odor?

Dr. Craig: It’s important not to self-diagnose. If the smell persists, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like stomach pain, bloody stool, or unexplained weight loss, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional.

Jason: Can conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or celiac disease also lead to metallic smelling stool?

Dr. Craig: Yes, they can. IBS, celiac disease, and even chronic conditions like chronic pancreatitis can impact how your body processes and properly absorbs nutrients, leading to changes in the odor of your stool.

Jason: Are there any specific treatment options for these conditions?

Dr. Craig: Treatment varies based on the underlying cause. For bacterial infections, antibiotics may be necessary. Inflammatory bowel diseases might require anti-inflammatory drugs or other specific medications. Diet adjustments can also play a significant role, especially in conditions like celiac disease or for those following a specific diet, like the paleo diet.

Jason: Interesting. And finally, can new medicine or certain medications impact stool odor?

Dr. Craig: Absolutely. Certain medications can alter gut bacteria or the digestive process, leading to changes in stool smell. If someone notices a change after starting new medicine, they should discuss it with their healthcare provider.

Jason: Continuing our discussion, Dr. Craig, could you talk about how conditions like cystic fibrosis or issues with the small intestine might contribute to stool smells, particularly a metallic odor?

Dr. Craig: Certainly. Cystic fibrosis can significantly affect the digestive track, including the small intestine. This condition can impair the pancreas, affecting how the body properly absorbs nutrients. This malabsorption can lead to stools that smell bad, including having a metallic smell.

Jason: What about parasitic infections? How do they impact stool odor?

Dr. Craig: Parasitic infections, often acquired from contaminated food or water, can cause a range of gastrointestinal symptoms. They can lead to smelly stool due to inflammation in the gut or the presence of the parasites themselves. In some cases, this can manifest as a metallic odor.

Jason: You mentioned earlier about blood in the stool. How does the presence of red blood cells affect stool odor?

Dr. Craig: Blood in your stool, particularly bright blood or tarry stools, can indicate bleeding in the digestive tract. This bleeding can sometimes cause a metallic smell due to the iron in red blood cells. It’s a symptom that should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Jason: Is there a link between high blood pressure or stomach cancer and changes in stool odor?

Dr. Craig: High blood pressure itself doesn’t directly cause changes in stool odor. However, stomach cancer can alter bowel habits and cause symptoms like smelly stools. This is due to changes in the digestive process and, sometimes, internal bleeding.

Jason: That’s quite insightful. How does the field of internal medicine approach these issues?

Dr. Craig: In internal medicine, a comprehensive approach is taken. We look at the entire spectrum of symptoms and medical history to pinpoint the cause of changes in stool characteristics. This often involves a range of diagnostic tests and collaborations with specialists.

Jason: Finally, what advice would you give to someone who’s concerned about a persistent metal smell in their stool?

Dr. Craig: If anyone notices persistent changes in their stool smells, particularly a metallic odor, I advise them to seek medical attention. It’s important not to ignore these symptoms, as they could be a sign of an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.

Jason: Thank you again, Dr. Craig, for this comprehensive overview and for sharing your expertise with us today. Hopefully next time we can discuss how to properly absorb nutrients & the affects of parasitic infection on stool smells.

Dr. Craig: My pleasure, Jason. Remember, paying attention to your body’s signals is crucial for maintaining good health. Don’t hesitate to reach out to healthcare providers when you have concerns.

About the author

Jason Hughes

"Hey there, I'm Jason, and you've just landed on the most exhilarating spot on the web - my VL universe! Here's the deal: I'm wildly obsessed (in the best way possible!) with all things diet, strength training, fitness, health, and wellness. It's not just a passion; it's a lifestyle!

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