NextPrevious

What causes the characteristic odor associated with feces?

Lower Gastrointestinal Tract Read more from
Chapter Digestive System

The characteristic odor associated with feces is caused by indole and skatole. These two substances result from the decomposition of undigested food residue, unabsorbed amino acids, dead bacteria, and cell debris. Highprotein diets produce larger quantities of indole and skatole, accompanied by an increase in the odor of feces.