When most people see red in their stools, they immediately associate the color with blood. In most cases, there is little cause for concern. A variety of foods lead to red-hued stools. Tomato soup, tomato or red vegetable juice, cranberries, beets, red peppers, and paprika can cause the color change. Red dyes are a common additive to processed foods and can also lead to red stools if a person ingests them. Red gelatin, red candies, cereals, and even snacks like Fire Cheetos can change the stool to a red color.

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