Experts Shed Light on the Frequency and Quality of Bowel Movements
CNN – In a recent interview with gastroenterologist Dr. Folasade May, it was revealed that the common belief of needing to have a bowel movement every day is actually a misconception. Dr. May, an associate professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, stated that there is no fixed or normal number of bowel movements for everyone.
This belief seems to originate from Victorian-era beliefs that daily bowel movements lead to better health, according to Dr. Michael Camilleri, a consultant and professor at the Mayo Clinic. However, the truth is that most people can have anywhere between a bowel movement up to three times a day to three times a week, and this range is considered normal.
Furthermore, several factors can affect the frequency of bowel movements, such as diet, hydration, stress, age, medication use, and social circumstances. Dr. Trisha Pasricha, a gastroenterologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, emphasizes the importance of considering not only the frequency but also the appearance and consistency of stools. Medical professionals use the Bristol Stool Chart to classify stools into seven groups, with types three and four being the healthiest.
If someone is pooping three times per week and their stools are hard or pebble-like, it may be acceptable as long as it doesn’t negatively impact their quality of life. However, excessive straining or feeling like the bowel hasn’t been fully emptied may indicate a need for changes in bowel movements or stool quality.
To facilitate easier bowel movements, Dr. Pasricha suggests raising one’s knees above the hips by using a toilet stool or stack of books. This position relaxes the pelvic floor muscles and helps the stool pass through more easily.
In terms of maintaining healthy bowels, experts recommend a diet rich in fiber from vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and nuts, with a daily intake of at least 25 grams of fiber. Being sufficiently hydrated also helps soften the stool for easier passage. Coffee and caffeinated beverages can stimulate colon contractions and induce bowel movements. However, excessive fiber intake can lead to abdominal bloating or loose stools.
Movement and exercise also play a role in bowel regularity. Sedentary lifestyles can slow down the digestive system, while exercise helps massage and move food through the digestive tract, promoting the passage of stool.
Various factors can affect bowel regularity, including genetics, medical conditions like hypothyroidism and irritable bowel syndrome, certain medications, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and stress. Stress can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system, leading to constipation or diarrhea.
Not responding to the urge to poop due to limited bathroom access or feeling embarrassed to do so can also affect bowel regularity. Experts advise not delaying bathroom trips when the urge arises and not spending excessive time on the toilet.
If lifestyle changes do not improve bowel regularity, it may be necessary to consult a doctor who can prescribe medications, supplements, or laxatives to aid in regularity.
In conclusion, the belief that everyone needs to poop daily is a misconception. Bowel movement frequency varies from person to person, and factors such as diet, hydration, stress, and medication use can affect it. It’s important to pay attention to not only the frequency but also the appearance and consistency of stools for a better understanding of bowel health.