You might be doing this every day!
Whileoccasionally having constipation is totally normal, if youre constantly struggling to go No.
2, it might be time to take a closer look at your daily habits.
Photo:Eating Well/Getty Images
Some of them could be sabotaging your poops and health without even you realizing it.
2 when you feel the urge.
So, when you feel the urge to poop, go poop!
Sounds simple, right?
Yet many people may routinely hold in their bowel movements.
Dont ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
Delaying too long can cause your body to adapt and ignore the sensation.
She adds that habitually ignoring this urge may lead to chronic constipation.
In short, listen to your body.
When it urges you to use the bathroom, make time to go!
Consider setting a timer on your watch to monitor toilet time.
Keep your phone and other distractions like books, magazines or laptops out of the restroom.
Avoid Continually Straining
Another habit to break is continually straining while sitting on the toilet.
One of your colon’s main jobs is to balance water with stool, says Latour.
And that can result in constipation for a lot of people.
She adds that drinking more water could alleviate many digestive issues and potentially eliminate the need forlaxativesor other medications.
Move More
Getting your body movingcan help your bowels do the same.
The Bottom Line
Having your bathroom routine on check helps you feel your best.
Gastroenterologists warn that delaying bowel movements can lead to chronic constipation and other health issues.
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NordVPN.Staying busy when nature calls: smartphone use on the toilet.
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Taylor K, Tripathi AK, Jones EB.Adult Dehydration.
StatPearls Publishing; 2022.
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