Do protein supplements cause black stools?

Q. I took protein supplements and I passed black stools. Is it because of the protein powder?

Answered by
Dr. Ratnakar Kini Prabhakar
and medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team.
This is a premium question & answer published on Jun 18, 2014 and last reviewed on: Jan 20, 2022

Hello doctor,

I am 16 years old. I have started taking a protein supplement since yesterday. I passed black stools this morning. Is this black color because of the protein powder?

#

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Protein supplements do not cause black stools. Black stools, also known as melena, occur if there is bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract.

There are chances of black stools if you take medications like Pepto-Bismol or Iron supplements. So, if you are not on Pepto-Bismol or Iron supplements and if there are persistent black stools which is sticky, bulky and offensive, then it requires immediate attention.

Get an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and share your reports.


Was this answer helpful?

 | 

Same symptoms doesn’t mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!



Related Questions:
I am anemic even after taking iron supplements. Why?

If it shows no iron deficiency, then you should get serum vitamin B12 and folic acid levels done, which is also the common cause of anemia ...   Read full

Does high intake of protein powder affect the kidneys?

Some kind of sensation from the shoulder till the baby finger only in my right hand. Working as a Software engineer. Taking Manasamitra Vatakam to get rid.   Read full

What could be the root cause for bloated stomach after having food?

Some kind of sensation from the shoulder till the baby finger only in my right hand. Working as a Software engineer. Taking Manasamitra Vatakam to get rid.   Read full

Also Read Answers From:

ideaComprehensive Medical Second Opinion.Submit your Case

Also Read


PCOS and Liver Problems
The hormonal imbalances in polycystic ovary syndrome could cause liver diseases. Read the article to know the relationship between these medical conditions.  Read more»
Inferior Alveolar Nerve Lateralization Technique
The inferior alveolar nerve lateralization technique is a surgical lateralization technique to reposition the nerve. Read the article to know more about this.  Read more»
COVID-19 and Ebola: Similarities and Differences
This article gives a comparison and broader overview of the outbreak of the two deadliest diseases that showed a greater incidence over the last two decades.  Read more»

Ask your health query to a doctor online?

Ask a Medical Gastroenterologist Now

* guaranteed answer within 4 hours.

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.