OpenHealth Q&A

Get answered by medical professionals

A Colorful Digestive Surprise: When Cake Turns Your Stool Teal

7/23/2025, 5:20:26 AMMale25-34

(F20) weight-150lb height-5’7 Recently, my mother surprised me with a cake to mark my first day on the job, and it was an absolutely vivid creation in shades of teal, blue, and purple. Of course, I couldn't resist indulging in a significant portion of it over the course of two days—after all, it was a celebratory treat, and I have zero regrets about it. However, now I'm facing an unexpected consequence: my stool has taken on an entirely unnatural teal hue, and I'm uncertain how long this colorful experience will continue. All I want is to regain my regular digestive routine. Have others encountered this phenomenon? It’s been a solid two days filled with these exceptionally teal bowel movements (I apologize for the oversharing), but is there a light at the end of this tunnel? When can I expect things to return to normal?

BloatingStomach PainAcid Reflux

Answers (1)

Cony

7/23/2025, 5:20:41 AM

OpenHealth AI

It's certainly surprising to notice a change in your stool color after enjoying a colorful cake! The teal hue you're experiencing is likely due to the artificial food coloring used in the cake, which can indeed affect the color of your stool. While this can be striking, it’s generally harmless and should resolve on its own.

Key Points:

  1. Food Coloring Effect: The vivid colors in your cake, especially if they contained blue or green dyes, can temporarily change the color of your stool.
  2. Duration: These changes are usually short-lived, and your stool should return to its normal color within a few days, as your body processes the cake.

Next Steps:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your digestive system flush everything out.
  • Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your stool color for the next few days; if it doesn't return to normal or if you notice other symptoms like unusual pain, fever, or persistent changes, consider your options.
  • Dietary Balance: Resume a balanced diet with plenty of fiber, which can help normalize your digestive routine.

You’re likely to return to your usual digestive patterns shortly. Enjoy your new job, and rest assured that this surprising experience is usually a temporary and harmless side effect! Let me know if you need any further information or support.

Related Questions

Worried About Dull Pain Between Ribs 2 and 3 on My Left Side

Personal Information: 31 years old, weighing 170 pounds, height 5'9" Greetings everyone, For a while now, I have been experiencing a persistent dull discomfort in the left side of my chest, particularly near the area between my second and third ribs, close to my armpit and slightly above my breast. Occasionally, I also notice this sensation on the right side. At times, the pain intensifies and radiates towards my armpit. Just to provide some context, I have been diagnosed with endometriosis and have a previous medical history that includes gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux. Recently, I consulted a cardiologist who performed an EKG. Although the test indicated abnormal T waves, she did not express any concern regarding the results. During the examination, she palpated the upper part of my chest and did not detect any unusual lumps or irregularities, leading her to conclude that the pain is likely related to acid reflux. Nevertheless, I am still apprehensive, especially because the pain tends to occur randomly, with a higher frequency at night, and it has been troubling me for the past six weeks. Most of the time, the discomfort is a dull ache, yet I have experienced heartburn and reflux before, and this sensation feels distinct. At times, the pain escalates, and I take famotidine, which offers some relief. I have a mammogram scheduled for next Wednesday, and I can’t shake off the fear that it could indicate something serious like lymphoma or breast cancer. During the cardiologist's exam, she only assessed the upper portion of my breast, but later in the day, I discovered two small, pea-sized lumps beneath my left nipple that are tender to the touch. Could it be possible that this discomfort is merely a symptom of acid reflux? I’m quite unsettled that the cardiologist didn’t investigate this further, particularly since I underwent a stress test back in January that returned clear results when I was experiencing random palpitations.

HeartburnIBSAcid Reflux
Male25-34
2 minutes ago

Seeking Guidance on Gastrointestinal Challenges

Hello, I apologize for the lengthy message, but I find myself in need of some advice regarding my health situation. I’m a 24-year-old female with a complex medical background that includes gastroparesis, recurrent bowel obstructions (eight instances between January and May of last year), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), Sjögren's syndrome, and dysautonomia. I underwent a G-POEM procedure for my gastroparesis in January 2025, which followed a problematic pyloroplasty in October 2024 impacted by adhesions, and prior to that, an adhesion surgery in March 2024. My history includes intussusception as an infant, two instances of sepsis, and extensive surgery resulting in the removal of much of my intestines and appendix due to a perforation. Currently, my medications include 50mg of Strattera taken twice daily, 200mg of acebutolol twice daily, 40mg of pantoprazole once daily, 25mg of amitriptyline once daily, 5mg of ivabradine once daily, and 40mg of Caplyta once daily. The G-POEM I had earlier this year went relatively smoothly aside from an edematous pylorus which was nearly obstructed. The surgeon managed to enlarge it but indicated that its size still falls short of optimal. Before the procedure, I was on a regimen that included Reglan, Zofran, Scopolamine, and Promethazine, but I was struggling with my ability to eat. Post-surgery, I initially felt great, but this changed about a month ago. Approximately three weeks ago, I began experiencing nausea roughly 20 to 30 minutes after meals, making it nearly impossible to keep food down. I consulted my gastrointestinal specialist, who prescribed Zofran and Scopolamine; however, these medications provided minimal relief. A week following this onset, I started dealing with diarrhea occurring every hour to three hours, often accompanied by blood. This prompted a hospital visit, where I spent a week receiving IV fluids and Compazine. The medical team checked for hemorrhoids to explain the bleeding but found none. They introduced oral Compazine for my nausea, which was effective. Despite my discharge, I struggled with solid foods but was okay with full liquids. Since leaving the hospital a week ago, I've faced continued difficulties with eating; I've inadvertently lost about 15 pounds in the past three to four weeks due to persistent nausea and the severe diarrhea that follows eating. I was given Xifaxan upon discharge in case my symptoms were linked to SIBO, yet I haven’t noticed significant improvements. I have an appointment with my GI tomorrow, during which we will plan an endoscopy and colonoscopy. I’m reaching out to see if anyone else has experienced similar issues or has suggestions on what might be happening, as I feel quite lost. Thank you for taking the time to read my concerns!

Stomach PainIndigestionAcid Reflux
Male25-34
32 minutes ago

Exploring DIY Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture: My Journey Begins

Hello everyone, Before embarking on this unconventional journey of self-treatment, I feel it's important to get some guidance from the online community—maybe even a warning! To give you a bit of context, I’ve been grappling with reflux issues for a decade now, characterized mainly by a sharp pain in my abdomen. I’ve been on lansoprazole for the past six years, which helps alleviate general GERD symptoms but does little for that persistent stabbing pain. Three years ago, I underwent an endoscopy that indicated the presence of bile in my stomach, but not much else was revealed. After an extended wait, I finally consulted a gastroenterologist who has scheduled me for a follow-up endoscopy in two months and a manometry test with an even longer wait time of 8 to 12 months. If the results indicate a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES) along with inadequate reflux control, they may suggest a surgical procedure known as fundoplication, which has its own long waiting period of around 24 months. While navigating this drawn-out process, I discovered several peer-reviewed studies that highlight the benefits of Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture (TEA) in enhancing LES pressure and alleviating symptoms relevant to reflux. I intend to implement the TEA protocol at home with the assistance of a TENS machine and would appreciate any insights from those who have prior experience or relevant safety knowledge. Here’s the device setup I’m planning to use: - **STIM-PRO ECO TENS unit** (dual channel) - **Settings:** - Pulse width: 260 µs - Frequency: 25 Hz - Intensity: Just beneath motor threshold (feeling mild tingling without muscle twitching) - Duration: Approximately 30 minutes per session, twice each day - Pads: 32mm round electrodes positioned at PC6 (Neiguan) and ST36 (Zusanli) on opposite limbs, activated simultaneously. ### Rationale Behind My Settings My approach is informed by a couple of key studies: - **Meng et al. (2018)** – A 4-week trial of TEA that resulted in a 52.2% increase in LES pressure using a pulse width of 250 µs and a frequency of 25 Hz. - **Liu et al. (2014)** – A short-term investigation that observed positive outcomes using a pulse width of 500 µs. These studies explore effective vagal modulation techniques, indicating that non-invasive stimulation of specific acupuncture points could enhance LES tone and possibly relieve GERD symptoms. As of now, the main concerns I have are potential wasted time and localized soreness from the electrode pads. I would greatly appreciate any feedback, particularly an assurance like, "You’re probably safe to try this," or perhaps a firm, "What are you thinking? You forgot to account for X!" I’m kicking this off tomorrow, so wish me luck! 😅

Stomach PainGastroenterologyAcid Reflux
Male25-34
1 hour ago

Struggling with Chronic Digestive Problems for Over 3 Years – Seeking Guidance or Recovery Experiences

Hello everyone, For the past three years, I have been battling with ongoing health challenges that have left me both mentally drained and physically worn out. The symptoms I experience include: - Ongoing gas and bloating - Regular episodes of diarrhea - Abdominal discomfort - Noticeable and unintentional weight and muscle reduction (around 8-9 kg) - A persistent sensation of heaviness in my head - A feeling of discomfort in my mouth and throat I have sought help from more than a dozen healthcare providers, spanning conventional medicine, ayurvedic practices, and homeopathy, yet none have offered a lasting solution. I’ve also undergone a wide array of medical examinations: - Colonoscopy - Ultrasound - CT scans of the abdomen and head - Thyroid tests, HIV testing, and sinus scans - Liver function tests (LFT), kidney function tests (KFT), and comprehensive blood analyses - Assessments of vitamin levels and gluten sensitivity - Stool and urine analyses along with various other investigations recommended by doctors In spite of extensive testing, medical professionals have not identified any significant ailments. The prevailing theories are that it might be irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or possibly stress-related issues; however, these explanations fail to account for my weight and muscle loss alongside the peculiar sensations in my head, mouth, and throat. This ordeal has impacted every aspect of my daily life, and I find myself reaching out in a plea for help. 👉 If anyone has faced similar health issues and found a way to recover, or if you know of effective treatments or practitioners, I would greatly appreciate your insights. I am open to exploring any potential avenues that could lead to improvement. Thank you so much for any guidance you can provide!

BloatingIndigestionConstipation
Male25-34
12 hours ago

Concerns About My 6-Year-Old's Sudden Reflux Symptoms

Hello, I'm reaching out regarding my 6-year-old daughter who has recently started exhibiting signs that seem consistent with reflux. Although she doesn’t express any discomfort, she often mentions instances where she has "spit up a small amount into her hand, sink, or mouth." This has been happening for the past three to four weeks, initially occurring about once every couple of days, but it now appears to be increasing to two or three occurrences daily. It’s difficult to determine the exact frequency—this might simply be due to us being more observant. She claims she doesn’t feel any burning sensation, but she does experience some mild tummy aches at times during the episodes of vomiting, though not every time. Her eating habits remain fairly normal, and in fact, she seems to be hungrier than usual lately. Her diet seems typical of a North American child, incorporating both treats and sweets, while also including fruits, vegetables, dairy, bread, and meats as part of her meals. Currently, we are on vacation and won’t have the opportunity to consult a physician for at least a couple of weeks. I’m feeling a bit anxious since she hasn’t historically had any gastrointestinal problems. Apart from this, her only other health concern has been eczema. I appreciate any advice or insights you can offer. Thank you!

VomitingStomach PainAcid Reflux
Male25-34
16 hours ago