Is especially smelly stool a sign of gastrointestinal problems?

The main reason for particularly foul-smelling bowel movements is poor gastrointestinal function, which may indicate an underlying digestive problem.

If the gastrointestinal tract experiences functional disturbances due to certain factors—such as chronic enteritis or intestinal dysbiosis—normal digestive processes can be significantly affected. This may lead to imbalances in gut flora or reduced gastrointestinal motility. After food is digested and absorbed in the stomach, waste materials move slowly through the digestive tract due to decreased motility, preventing timely passage into the colon and rectum. As a result, stool remains in the intestines for an extended period, leading to excessive fermentation and the production of large amounts of gas. These gases often contain substances like hydrogen sulfide and ammonia, causing particularly foul-smelling stools. This condition may also be accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty passing stool, bloating, and loss of appetite.

When experiencing unusually foul-smelling bowel movements, it's important to maintain a light and easily digestible diet to reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal system. Additionally, engaging in appropriate physical exercise can help promote healthy intestinal motility.