Stool Examination

Ayurvedic literature emphasizes thorough examination of the stool. A well-formed stool indicates healthy digestion, while stool resembling whipped cheese with no form indicates poor assimilation. Passing undigested food signifies poor digestion and makes the stool heavy.

A healthy stool without toxicity (ama) floats, which is a good sign. A stool containing toxins sinks to the bottom; severe ama causes it to stick to the bottom. However, undigested fat in the stool can also cause floating, which is not healthy. In vegetarians, stools tend to be light, whereas meat consumption makes feces heavier. Undigested food can also undergo fermentation, and the gases formed can make a heavy stool float. Both floating and sinking are connected to the quality of food, digestion, and agni (digestive fire).