The #1 Habit to Break to Poop Better
Key Points:
- Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can lead to harder stools and chronic constipation, as the stool absorbs more water the longer it stays in the rectum.
- Limiting toilet time to 10 minutes or less is important to avoid straining pelvic floor muscles, which can cause hemorrhoids, incontinence, and other health issues.
- Avoid bringing phones or other distractions to the bathroom, as they tend to increase toilet time and the risk of developing hemorrhoids or weakening pelvic muscles.
- Continual straining during bowel movements is harmful and may signal clinical constipation; medical advice should be sought if straining is frequent.
- To improve bowel health, experts recommend increasing dietary fiber intake, drinking sufficient water daily, and engaging