Medically reviewed by Kumkum S. Patel, MD Noticing black stool can be alarming, but the cause isn’t always serious. Sometimes ...

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If someone has recently consumed any of these and their stool is black, there is likely no cause for concern. However, bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract can also cause black, tarry stools.

You should always see a doctor if you have black poop, especially if it's also sticky or tarry. Mild dehydration can lead to constipation and stool that's darker brown and harder than normal.