Question
Why does the stool of a newborn turn green? Is this a normal phenomenon?
Answer
According to the description in Pediatrics, the stool of breastfed infants typically appears as golden yellow and soft, occasionally with a slight green tint, has an acidic odor but no offensive smell, and the frequency of bowel movements is usually once to four times a day. If the frequency of bowel movements is as high as four to five times or seven to eight times, but the general condition of the baby is good and their weight is increasing, it should not be considered abnormal. The stool of formula-fed infants is usually pale yellow, drier, and contains more feces, with a slight smell of rotten milk, sometimes mixed with milk curds. If the frequency of bowel movements is less than twice a day, there may be a tendency towards constipation. Green stool is usually associated with accelerated intestinal motility or inflammation, which is a sign of diarrhea. The acidic nature of breastfed infant stool sometimes allows oxidative bacteria to convert bilirubin into biliverdin, leading to green stool. On the other hand, the alkaline nature of formula-fed infant stool may further reduce biliverdin to colorless faecal bile pigment, making the stool color lighter. If concerned about diarrhea in the infant, pay attention to whether the frequency of bowel movements has significantly increased and whether the consistency has changed (such as becoming thin, watery, mucoid, or with pus blood). If the stool from solid to paste-like may also indicate diarrhea. Diarrhea in infants can lead to dehydration and other health issues if not treated promptly. It’s important to consult a pediatrician if you notice any signs of illness in your baby.