How much waste can your intestines hold. What are the potential health effects of excessive intestinal waste. How often should you have bowel movements. What should healthy stool look like and smell like. When should you be concerned about painful bowel movements.

The Surprising Capacity of Human Intestines

The human digestive system is a marvel of biological engineering, capable of processing a wide variety of foods and extracting essential nutrients. But have you ever wondered about its capacity to hold waste? The answer might surprise you.

The intestines can hold an astonishing amount of waste, ranging from 5 to 25 pounds at any given time. This significant variation depends on factors such as an individual’s weight, diet, and overall health. In extreme cases, autopsies have revealed intestines containing up to 40 pounds of waste material.

Why does this accumulation occur? The human body cannot fully digest all consumed foods, and some partially digested matter can adhere to the intestinal lining. Over time, this builds up as mucus and fecal matter, forming what’s known as “mucoid plaque.” This substance can resemble hardened tire rubber or dried rawhide, creating rope-like structures with folds and creases that mirror the intestinal walls.

Health Implications of Excessive Intestinal Waste

The accumulation of waste in the intestines is not merely an unpleasant concept; it can have serious health implications. Excessive waste buildup can lead to a variety of conditions, including:

• Weight gain
• Chronic fatigue
• Mood swings
• Memory loss
• Arthritis
• Heart disease
• Digestive issues (constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, leaky gut syndrome)
• Skin conditions (psoriasis, acne, rosacea, eczema)

In fact, research has linked excessive intestinal waste to over 170 serious health problems. This underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy digestive system and regular bowel movements.

The Frequency of Healthy Bowel Movements

One common question regarding digestive health is: How often should one have a bowel movement? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.

Bowel movement frequency can vary significantly from person to person, depending on factors such as diet, hydration, physical activity, and individual metabolism. The normal range spans from three times a day to once every three days. On average, most people have a bowel movement about once per day.

A useful rule of thumb is that a person typically produces about one ounce of feces for every 12 pounds of body weight. This means a 160-pound individual would generate slightly less than a pound of feces daily.

When to Be Concerned About Bowel Movement Frequency

While individual variations are normal, certain patterns may indicate digestive issues:

• Diarrhea: Passing watery, loose stools more than four times a day
• Constipation: Having bowel movements less frequently than once every three days

If you experience persistent diarrhea or constipation, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. For mild cases, staying hydrated and adjusting your diet can often help. For diarrhea, avoid coffee, alcohol, and certain fruits like pears and apples. For constipation, increase your water intake and consume more fibrous foods such as fruits, nuts, and whole grains.

The Characteristics of Healthy Stool

Understanding what constitutes healthy stool can provide valuable insights into your digestive health. But what exactly should you look for?

Healthy stool is primarily composed of water, accounting for about 75% of its content. The remaining 25% consists of:

• Live and dead bacteria (crucial for breaking down food in the digestive tract)
• Salt
• Fat
• Protein
• Insoluble fibers
• Cellular linings
• Waste material from the liver and intestines

The characteristic brown color of stool comes from bilirubin, a substance produced during the breakdown of red blood cells.

Factors Influencing Stool Appearance

Several factors can affect the appearance of your stool:

1. Water intake
2. Fiber consumption
3. Diet
4. Hydration levels
5. Physical activity
6. Stress levels

While some experts suggest that ideal stool should take on an ‘S’ shape (mirroring the shape of the colon and intestines), the ease of passage is generally more important than the specific shape.

Understanding Stool Odor

The unpleasant odor associated with stool is a natural consequence of its composition and the digestive process. But what causes this smell, and when should you be concerned?

Stool contains numerous active bacteria that generate by-products, including gases and compounds responsible for the characteristic odor. While an unpleasant smell is normal, a sudden change or consistently foul odor could indicate an underlying issue.

Common Causes of Changes in Stool Odor

• Recent dietary changes
• Certain medications
• Digestive disorders
• Infections
• Malabsorption issues

If you notice a persistent, unusually foul odor, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any potential medical conditions.

Pain During Bowel Movements: When to Be Concerned

Under normal circumstances, passing stool should not be painful. However, various factors can lead to discomfort or pain during bowel movements.

Common Causes of Painful Bowel Movements

• Constipation
• Hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures
• Inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
• Infections
• Colorectal cancer (in rare cases)

If you experience regular pain during bowel movements, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Maintaining Intestinal Health: Practical Tips

Given the importance of intestinal health and its wide-ranging impacts on overall well-being, what steps can you take to maintain a healthy digestive system?

Dietary Recommendations for Optimal Intestinal Health

• Consume a high-fiber diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your meals
• Stay hydrated: Drink adequate water throughout the day
• Limit processed foods: Reduce intake of refined sugars and unhealthy fats
• Incorporate probiotic-rich foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and other fermented foods can support gut health
• Moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can disrupt the gut microbiome

Lifestyle Factors for Better Digestive Health

1. Regular exercise: Physical activity promotes healthy digestion and bowel movements
2. Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively impact digestive function
3. Adequate sleep: Poor sleep patterns can disrupt digestive processes
4. Avoid smoking: Tobacco use can increase the risk of various digestive disorders
5. Regular medical check-ups: Routine screenings can help detect potential issues early

By implementing these dietary and lifestyle changes, you can support your intestinal health and potentially reduce the risk of complications associated with excessive waste accumulation.

The Role of Gut Microbiome in Intestinal Health

The gut microbiome, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms residing in our digestive tract, plays a crucial role in intestinal health and overall well-being. But how exactly does it influence waste management and digestive function?

Functions of the Gut Microbiome

• Nutrient breakdown and absorption
• Production of essential vitamins
• Regulation of immune function
• Protection against harmful pathogens
• Influence on mood and mental health

A healthy, diverse gut microbiome contributes to efficient digestion and regular bowel movements. It helps break down complex carbohydrates, produces short-chain fatty acids that nourish colon cells, and maintains the integrity of the intestinal lining.

Factors Affecting Gut Microbiome Health

1. Diet: A diverse, plant-based diet promotes a healthy microbiome
2. Antibiotics: Can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria
3. Stress: Chronic stress may negatively impact microbiome diversity
4. Sleep patterns: Poor sleep can alter gut bacteria composition
5. Environmental factors: Exposure to pollutants and toxins can affect gut health

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome through diet, lifestyle choices, and appropriate use of probiotics and prebiotics can significantly contribute to optimal intestinal function and waste management.

Advanced Diagnostic Tools for Intestinal Health

Modern medical science offers various advanced diagnostic tools to assess intestinal health and identify potential issues. What are some of these tools, and how do they work?

Common Diagnostic Procedures for Intestinal Health

• Colonoscopy: Allows direct visualization of the colon and rectum
• Endoscopy: Examines the upper digestive tract
• CT colonography: Provides detailed images of the colon using X-rays
• Stool tests: Analyze stool samples for various markers of digestive health
• Hydrogen breath tests: Can detect certain digestive issues like lactose intolerance
• Gut microbiome analysis: Provides insights into the composition of gut bacteria

These diagnostic tools allow healthcare professionals to assess intestinal health, detect potential issues early, and develop targeted treatment plans. Regular screenings, especially for individuals over 50 or those with a family history of digestive disorders, can be crucial for maintaining optimal intestinal health.

Emerging Technologies in Intestinal Health Diagnostics

1. Capsule endoscopy: A swallowable camera that captures images of the entire digestive tract
2. AI-powered imaging analysis: Enhances the accuracy of diagnostic procedures
3. Gut-on-a-chip: Mimics the human gut environment for research and drug testing
4. Metabolomics: Analyzes metabolites to provide a comprehensive picture of gut health
5. Genetic testing: Identifies potential genetic predispositions to digestive disorders

These emerging technologies promise to revolutionize our understanding of intestinal health and provide more personalized approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

The Connection Between Intestinal Health and Overall Well-being

The health of our intestines extends far beyond digestion, influencing various aspects of our physical and mental well-being. How does intestinal health impact our overall health, and why is it so crucial?

The Gut-Brain Axis

The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication between the central nervous system and the enteric nervous system of the gastrointestinal tract. This connection explains how intestinal health can influence mood, cognitive function, and mental health.

• Neurotransmitter production: The gut produces a significant portion of the body’s serotonin, a key mood regulator
• Stress response: Gut health can influence how we respond to stress
• Cognitive function: Emerging research suggests links between gut health and cognitive abilities

Immune System Regulation

Approximately 70-80% of the immune system is located in the gut. This highlights the critical role of intestinal health in overall immune function.

1. Barrier function: A healthy gut lining prevents harmful substances from entering the bloodstream
2. Immune cell production: The gut is a major site for the production and training of immune cells
3. Inflammation regulation: Gut health influences systemic inflammation levels

Nutrient Absorption and Metabolism

Optimal intestinal health is crucial for efficient nutrient absorption and metabolism, which affects various bodily functions:

• Energy production
• Hormone regulation
• Tissue repair and growth
• Detoxification processes

By maintaining good intestinal health through proper diet, regular exercise, stress management, and appropriate medical care, we can positively influence our overall health and well-being. The intricate connections between our gut and various bodily systems underscore the importance of prioritizing intestinal health as part of a holistic approach to wellness.

How Much Waste Can the Intestines Hold?

December 13, 2022December 13, 2022

Do you sometimes wonder how much waste can your intestines hold? The digestive tract may not be the most pleasant topic to talk about, but it’s actually one of the most important systems in the entire human body. Approximately 80% of the entire immune system is housed in the digestive tract alone, making it imperative to make sure your digestive tract is clean and healthy. So don’t be shy with this topic and keep reading to find more about it.

How Much Waste Can the Intestines Hold?

The intestines can hold as little as 5 pounds and as much as 25 pounds of waste at any given time, varying greatly depending on your weight and diet. This is because your body is physically unable to completely digest all the foods you consume and some of them can get stuck in the lining of your intestines. Eventually, they accumulate as mucus and fecal matter, weighing up to a shocking 25 pounds. In autopsy, some intestines were found to have up to 40 pounds of waste that looked similar to hardened tire rubber or dried rawhide. This accumulation is called “mucoid plaque” and is characterized by rope-like knots, folds, and creases, much like how the intestinal walls would look and feel.

What Are the Effects of Excessive Waste in Intestines?

As you would expect, the build-up and accumulation of these wastes in your body are not only undesirable, but also very toxic and harmful to your health. Too much waste stuck in your digestive tract can cause some conditions to surface, including weight gain, excessive fatigue, mood swings, memory loss, arthritis, and even heart disease. It can cause digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and leaky gut syndrome. Skin conditions like psoriasis, acne, rosacea, and eczema are also quite common. In fact, there are over a staggering 170 serious health problems that have been somehow correlated with the excess buildup of waste in the intestines.

More Facts About Intestinal Health

1. How Often Should I Go to the Bathroom?

There really isn’t an exact answer to this question. Each person’s body and metabolism is different, which means that each one passes stool at different frequencies depending on how much waste can the intestines hold. However, the normal range can be anywhere from thrice a day to once every three days, meaning that an average person would probably need to defecate about once every day. What’s more, the average person would pass stool in a ratio of one ounce for every 12 pounds of the body weight. This translates roughly to a 160-pound person producing a little less than a pound of feces per day.

Releasing watery and loose stool more than four times a day would qualify as diarrhea, while having a schedule with intervals greater than three days would qualify as constipation. Diarrhea can be treated by hydrating regularly, eating solid food, and avoiding coffee, alcohol, pears, and apples. Meanwhile, constipation can be treated by drinking lots of water and eating fibrous food like fruit, nuts, and whole grains. If either condition persists, consult your doctor.

2. What Should the Waste Look Like?

How your stool looks depends on what it’s made of. Majority of the fecal composition – about 75 percent – is just water. The remaining 25% consists of both live and dead bacteria, which aid in the breaking down of food in the digestive tract. It also contains salt, fat, protein, insoluble fibers, cellular linings, and waste material from your liver and intestines. These substances combine, in addition to bilirubin produced by the breakdown of red blood cells, to create the brown color of the stools.

The way your stool looks is also heavily dependent on many other factors, including your water and fiber intake, diet, hydration, physical activity, and even stress level. Some experts have asserted that stool should ideally take on an ‘S’ shape, much like how the colon and intestines look. However, it’s not so much the shape of your stool, but how easily it passes should be the object of your concern.

3. Why Does the Waste Smell?

Given the composition of stool and the amount of “how much waste can the intestines hold”, it’s not surprising that it has a less than pleasant smell. The feces contain a lot of active bacteria that generate by-products including gases and compounds that cause foul odors. If your stool smells worse than it usually does, the most probable culprit would be something you ate recently. There’s really no cause for alarm unless your stool smells vile on a regular basis – in that case, you may actually have an underlying medical condition that you should have your doctor check it as soon as possible.

4. What If the Passing of the Waste Hurts?

Passing stool shouldn’t usually be painful except when you have constipation. If you regularly experience bleeding and discomfort such as sharp pains in your abdomen or rectum when you defecate, this should be a cause for concern. Consult your doctor immediately as you might already have anal fissures or hemorrhoids.

5. Does a Colon Need a Good Flushing?

Considering the answer to “how much waste can the intestines hold”, you may want to have a colon flushing. In spite of its popularity, colon cleansing is actually one of the worst things that can affect your health. For one, it’s a waste of time, money, and resources – and this will be the least of your problems. Studies have shown that when you cleanse your colon, you’re not actually washing away toxins and impacted fecal matter. Instead, you only get rid of electrolytes and over a thousand species of beneficial bacteria that play a part in digestion, water and vitamin absorption, and fiber fermentation. You also expose yourself to risks of blood infections, dehydration, rectal perforations, loss of rectal muscle control, and air emboli.

Colon Cleanse Fact or Fiction – 5 to 20 lbs of Toxic Poop?

Many natural health experts have shared misinformation about “toxic poop” in the colon. According to colon cleanse providers (colonic hygienists), an adult can have between 5 and 20 pounds of residual stool in their large intestine (colon), leading to health problems such as excess weight gain, fatigue, and brain fog.

But scientific evidence doesn’t support this myth.

Do you have 5 to 20 pounds of toxic poop in your colon?

A colon cleanse is a type of medicine or procedure used to clean out the large intestine. Those who promote colon cleanses often warn the public about the serious adverse effects of toxic poop; many even describe a common problem of having 5 to 20 pounds of stool backed up in the colon. 

The truth is that people do not commonly have 5 to 20 pounds of poop in their colons. In fact, on average, most people eliminate approximately 14 to 16 ounces of poop per day—and the accumulation of feces in the intestines wouldn’t come close to 20 pounds.  

Even if you have long-term constipation and a very poor diet, it’s still highly unlikely you’d have that much stool in your colon.

What is toxic poop? 

Toxic poop is a term associated with fecal waste that has accumulated over time. Sometimes this occurs over months, or even years. 

Although it’s uncommon for healthy people to accumulate 5 to 20 pounds of waste inside the colon walls, some people suffer from inflammatory conditions of the intestines that can cause toxicity from a malfunctioning gastrointestinal tract. In these cases detoxification is beneficial.

Is toxic poop fact or fiction, and if it exists, how do you get rid of toxic waste in the colon? Is it beneficial to undergo a colon cleansing procedure?

Though the term “toxic poop” is more fictitious than factual, certain circumstances can create an unhealthy environment in the digestive system. These factors include certain drugs and chemicals, a poor diet, and certain health conditions, including kidney failure, inflammatory bowel disease, and toxic megacolon.

What is toxic megacolon?

Toxic poop is often associated with a medical condition called toxic megacolon. This condition happens when the large intestine is extremely inflamed and distended. 

In some cases, the large intestine can become completely blocked, creating a dangerous buildup of gas and feces. This can lead to a life-threatening colon rupture. 

Toxic megacolon is most often caused by inflammatory bowel diseases—through colon cancer can also be a factor.

Esophageal and intestinal blockages can also cause toxic megacolon, but more commonly, infections (like inflammatory colitis) are the culprit. This type of toxicity can cause tachycardia (fast heart rate), low blood pressure, and changes in mental status. 

You should never use extreme methods of colon cleansing, including colonics if you suspect you have toxic megacolon.  

Toxic megacolon risk factors and symptoms

Risk factors associated with toxic megacolon include: 

• Ulcerative colitis

• Crohn’s disease 

• Colon infection (most often C. difficile)

• Colon ischemia (low blood flow to the colon)

• Colon cancer (rarely)

A recent irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) diagnosis can also increase your risk of toxic megacolon. IBS involves abnormally strong intestinal contractions that cause gas and bloating and bouts of constipation and diarrhea.

The following signs can indicate you have a toxic digestive tract:

• Severe colon inflammation

• Painful abdominal region

• Abdominal distension (swollen with trapped gas and feces)  

• Fever

• Rapid heart rate

• Dehydration 

• Altered mental status 

Potential life-threatening complications of toxic megacolon include:

• Colon perforation

• Bleeding

• Sepsis

• Shock

Are colon cleanses healthy?

Harsh colon cleansing—like colonics and extreme dietary cleanses—can flush out important gut bacteria, causing a disruption in healthy digestion and compromising immune system function.  

It’s important to understand the dangers of colonic irrigation and other colon cleansing products on your digestive and gut health. In most cases, colonics are not recommended for detoxification. In fact, if done incorrectly, they can cause severe complications, including infection, anal fissures, electrolyte imbalance, and dehydration.

If you must do a colon cleanse, replenish your friendly gut microbes with quality probiotics and prebiotics. 

How gut microbes affect digestion 

What are gut microbes, and how do they impact the digestive system? Gut microbes are required for normal digestion and other important body functions, such as immune system function. They even help the body fight infectious diseases.

Friendly microbes help perform many important functions in the body, including:

• Breaking down food

• Assisting the body’s ability to use food as nutrients

• Controlling the overgrowth of harmful, unfriendly microbes

• Helping prevent gas and bloating by maintaining a healthy balance of friendly microbes 

• Supporting immune system function

Your gut microbiome consists of trillions of fungi, bacteria, and other microbes. The right balance of these microbes is required for a healthy digestive system. Studies have found that colon cleansing results in an immediate, substantial disruption in your intestinal flora.

Factors that influence gut microbes

Factors that increase the diversity of microbes in the gut include:

• Eating a variety of vegetable fibers

• Losing weight

• Fasting (strengthens and develops microbes)

• Ingesting polyphenols (such as nuts and berries)

• Consuming fermented vegetables

Factors that decrease the diversity of gut microbes include:

How to cleanse your colon naturally

Eating a healthy diet and employing beneficial lifestyle choices should be the first defense against most problems that colon cleansing products are used for. 

Some colon cleanses not only deplete healthy gut microbes but also decrease electrolytes. Electrolytes and friendly gut flora must be replaced to prevent further digestive issues.  

If diet and lifestyle changes are ineffective, a colon cleanse can be used—but it’s not a healthy long-term solution to digestive issues and constipation. 

Constipation is when you eliminate fewer than three times per week. Optimally, you should be going at least once daily and preferably a couple of times per day. 

The most effective way to keep the bowels regular is with proper nutrition. Vegetable fiber, adequate hydration, and reducing stress can help keep your elimination pattern regular. 

If drinking more water and increasing your fiber doesn’t help with constipation, you can try an herbal laxative. 

Other possible remedies, depending on the underlying cause of constipation, may include:

• Probiotics

• Bile salts

• Hydrochloric acid 

• Pancreatic enzymes

It’s important to note that you should always consult your healthcare provider before taking any type of medicine (including laxatives)—especially if your symptoms are severe or chronic.   

Nine ways to cleanse your colon

There are excellent home remedies that are extremely effective to help gut health. A healthy keto diet, intermittent fasting and home remedies for parasites are the best solutions for a toxic colon.

Probiotics

Probiotics are usually taken for diarrhea, not for constipation, but there are two types of probiotics that can help with constipation: lactobacillus and bifidobacteria. Try adding more foods to your diet that are rich in probiotics, including kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, tempeh, and kombucha.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics support the growth of gut bacteria. They are indigestible carbs (fiber) that act as a source of food for microbes. Prebiotics in vegetables, pistachios, almonds, and berries can encourage the growth of healthy bacteria, including bifidobacteria.

Reduce stress

Many digestive disorders, including IBS, are stress induced. Stress management can help with these conditions. Depression and stress also promote the growth of pathogenic gut bacteria and weaken the gut barrier.

Healthy Keto

The Healthy Keto diet is key to maintaining a healthy digestive system and colon. Keto replaces high-sugar foods that are bad for the digestive system with nutrient-rich foods that promote colon health. 

Intermittent fasting

When you have frequent meals and snacks, your digestive tract is never able to completely eliminate its content. Your body was not designed to eat constantly, so frequent snacks and meals can overwhelm your digestive system, causing malabsorption and incomplete digestion. Intermittent fasting is the best way to combat these issues. 

Natural laxatives

Natural laxatives are often more gentle and can promote healthy bowel function. Senna, cascara sagrada, black psyllium, castor oil, and magnesium are excellent natural laxatives.  

Adequate hydration

Dehydration and overhydration can affect your digestion and regularity. Inadequate hydration can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and constipation. Overhydration can flush out electrolytes that are vital for colon function. The key to adequate hydration is to drink when you’re thirsty. Don’t force yourself to drink more than you need. 

Purified bile salts

Bile is made in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. Normal bile levels are crucial for lubricating your colon to allow food to properly move through your digestive tract. It also helps keep your microbial balance in check. You can increase your bile by taking purified bile salts. Keep in mind that too much bile can cause diarrhea, so avoid taking bile salts if you have diarrhea.

Exercise 

Exercise improves your gut flora by supporting the diversity and balance of friendly gut microbes. Just six weeks of regular exercise can cause a significant improvement in your overall gut microbiota. Try going for a long walk each day or spend some time doing some enjoyable and relaxing physical work, like gardening.

Key takeaways

Toxic poop is believed to be a buildup of toxins and fecal waste that has accumulated in your colon over time, which can adversely impact your health. But it’s important to differentiate facts from fiction when it comes to colon health and colon cleansing. 

It’s a myth that people commonly have 5 to 20 pounds of toxic stool accumulation. The only exception is a very rare inflammatory condition called toxic megacolon, which causes a toxic environment in the colon.

Colon cleansing and other methods of flushing fecal matter from the colon can cause more harm than good. In fact, colonics can flush out crucial microorganisms and cause dehydration.

For most people, colonics are entirely unnecessary to eliminate toxins or cleanse the colon. The feces that are flushed out during these procedures would’ve been eliminated anyways during your next bowel movement.

Eating right, staying hydrated, keeping stress at bay, and getting plenty of exercise are the best ways to promote healthy digestion and a clean colon.

FAQs

1. Can poop poison you?

In almost all cases, the poop that is moving through your large intestine is not toxic and will not poison you while it’s in your colon. In rare cases, a condition called toxic megacolon will require immediate medical attention. However, feces are toxic to ingest, and food contamination can result in food poisoning.  

2. How do I do a colon cleanse?

The best way to cleanse your colon is with healthy diet and lifestyle choices. In most cases, colonics are not beneficial. There are many popular over-the-counter colon cleanser products, including capsules and powder for self-colon cleansing. However, these don’t provide long-term benefits.

3. Are your bowels ever completely empty?

No. Even after bouts of diarrhea, the colon is never completely empty. Feces are continuously formed, and colon cleansing does not empty the entire colon.

4. How much toxic poop is in your body?

It’s a myth that you have toxic poop that needs to be flushed out of your body. Except for in extremely rare cases, there is no toxic poop stuck in your body. Poop is natural, and your gastrointestinal tract will eliminate it as needed. Even occasional constipation is not a sign you have 5 to 20 pounds of toxic poop stuck in your colon.

5. How do I get rid of toxic poop?

Since the term “toxic poop” is a myth, you don’t need to do any type of colon cleansing procedure to flush out your stool. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and avoiding dehydration will naturally support regularity. Colon cleansing and colonic irrigation procedures are not necessary.

6. What does toxic (megacolon) poop look like?

Depending on the underlying cause of toxic megacolon, your stool can vary in color and texture. It may become a greenish color instead of brown—and in severe cases, toxicity of the colon may result in the formation of hard fecal masses called fecalomas.

7. What is a colonic?

A colonic hygienist performs colon cleansing in a clinic setting by inserting a tube into the rectum and introducing a large amount of water into the colon. Water, along with feces, is flushed out of the large intestine (colon), in the same way you pass bowel movements. You don’t need a colonic to maintain a healthy and clean colon.

Source: https://gut.bmj.com/content/65/1/57

How to poop properly to stay healthy

Likbez

Health

August 5, 2022

Check if you are doing everything right.

How people poop

The intestines move the feces to the exit without interruption due to the muscular movements of the walls (peristalsis), but they are removed up to three times a day. Therefore, the rectum becomes a reservoir where waste can linger. To do this, its walls are stretched. When there is too much stool, the pressure rises. Then the receptors in the walls send a signal to the brain that it is time to empty the intestines.

To keep stool in, the rectum has sphincters – circular muscles that work like a string in a pouch. The inner one opens involuntarily with strong stretching, the outer one is controlled by a person. Even if the bowel is full, he will not relax without a command. If there is no control over the sphincter, incontinence develops. For example, with age, after surgery, neurological disorders such as stroke.

Image: Blamb/Shutterstock

The anorectal angle, that is, the 60-150 degree bend of the intestine, which is controlled by the puborectalis muscle, also allows you to control bowel movements. For a standing person, it is about 90 degrees, so the stool rests against the wall. If the corner is “unbent”, it will be easier for the masses to move towards the exit.

When you need to have a bowel movement, the external sphincter opens and the muscles push the stool out of the body. If there is not enough peristalsis, a person pushes – strains the muscles of the chest, diaphragm, abdominal wall and pelvis. But you should not do this, so as not to provoke hemorrhoids or prolapse of the intestine.

How to poop properly

Despite the fact that this is the most natural process, sometimes people still make mistakes.

How often to poop

It all depends on the person. It is normal to poop from three times a week to three times a day.

If you suddenly want to go to the toilet, but decide to pull in time to get, for example, to the house, then this is wrong, because the intestines work around the clock, without stopping. So, if you want to empty it, you need to do it soon. Otherwise, there will be a feeling of fullness and diarrhea will begin.

How long is it right to poop

Ideally, a bowel movement should not take more than five minutes. When you sit on the toilet for too long, push longer. In the future, this can lead to the development of hemorrhoids.

If you have been sitting for several minutes and nothing happens, it is better to leave the toilet and try again later. So don’t take your phone with you.

What position to poop in

Correct posture is dictated by the anatomy of the rectum. To go to the toilet was easier, you need to “unbend” the anorectal angle. He sits more than standing, and in a squat – even more. Therefore, the deeper you sit, the easier it will be for the feces to come out.

It is best to position yourself so that your knees are higher than your hips. Tilt the body forward a little, put your palms or elbows on your knees. The back should be straight, the stomach should be relaxed. You can’t hold your breath when pushing.

The easiest way is to poop on your haunches. So floor-mounted toilets (Genoa bowls) may not be the most beautiful, but very convenient designs. But it’s not worth climbing the usual toilet bowl with an “eagle”: if the leg slips, there is a high risk of a fracture. To achieve the correct posture, it is enough to place a special bench under your feet.

Image: Lilanakani/Shutterstock

How to cleanse the anus

In order to hold solids, liquids and gases equally well, the anus has many nerve endings and very delicate skin. Therefore, it requires proper care.

• Wipe from front to back. This is especially important for women, as it prevents intestinal bacteria from being introduced into the vagina.
• Do not rub hard. Paper irritates thin skin, microtrauma occurs, into which bacteria enter.
• If you can, replace plain paper with damp paper (just dampen a little with water or buy special paper) or use a hygienic shower.
• Only use soap in the shower or bidet. If it stays on the skin, it will dry it out.
• If you can’t clean your anus well, be sure to rinse it more thoroughly when you can.
• Don’t do a deep colon cleansing: enemas flush out the good bacteria. There are indications for this medical procedure, according to the advice of the Internet guru, this should not be done.

What to do after going to the toilet

While going to the toilet, you touch the toilet, paper, doorknobs. Therefore, many microorganisms, such as salmonella, E. coli and noroviruses, can remain on the hands. By the way, this is another reason not to take your phone with you.

Always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Close the taps with your elbow or a towel, and dry your palms: bacteria get on wet skin much more often than dry skin.

People who wash their hands properly are less likely to experience diarrhea, viral infections and digestive illnesses.

What feces should look like

The Bristol scale can be used to determine how much feces should be normal.

Image: Macrovector/Shutterstock

The first and second types indicate constipation, the fifth or seventh indicate diarrhea. You need to focus on the third and fourth options. Strive to ensure that the stool is formed, but soft enough, then it can effortlessly pass through the rectum.

How to help the intestines to poop correctly

If the correct posture does not provide the third or fourth type, it may be worth reconsidering your diet and daily routine.

Add fiber

Dietary fiber increases the volume of feces, so it is easier for them to pass through the intestines. Soluble fiber provides food for beneficial bacteria and supports the microbiota. Insoluble fiber makes the consistency of the masses softer, so it will be easier to empty.

To make pooping more enjoyable, add to your diet:

• whole grains;
• legumes;
• vegetables;
• fruits.

You can also use ready-made fiber in the form of supplements, but it is better not to overdo it so that there is no bloating and pain in the stomach.

Go in for sports

Aerobic exercises, such as walking and running, greatly relieve constipation, because they speed up the blood and speed up all metabolic processes in the body. But further research on their effectiveness is needed. On the other hand, moderate cardio can harm few people. So it’s worth a try.

Stick to a routine

Irregular working hours and lack of sleep lead to constipation, so it is advisable to try to live in a more predictable and relaxed rhythm. The habit of pooping at the same time can also help.

How to tell if something is wrong

If something is wrong, you may need to seek help.

If you poop too infrequently

Constipation is when you pass less than three times a week. But all people are different. So you can talk about constipation even if you used to regularly defecate several times a day, and now you do it once every two days.

You can look at other signs:

• you have dry and hard stools of the first or second type;
• feces pass through the anus with difficulty, this is accompanied by pain;
• there is a feeling of incomplete emptying.

In these cases, you need to review the diet or consult a doctor.

If you poop too much

Sometimes it’s even normal. For example, if you eat more fiber or drink a lot of coffee. But it can also indicate:

• digestive tract infections;
• celiac disease;
• Crohn’s disease;
• ulcerative colitis;
• hypothyroidism;
• irritable bowel syndrome;
• any illness for which a person has taken antibiotics.

If there are no other signs, most likely everything is in order. But if there is something else, such as weakness, pain, nausea, you need to make an appointment with a therapist.

If there is blood in the stool

It can be detected by various signs: red spots on toilet paper, colored water in the toilet bowl or black tarry stool.

Blood in the stool occurs in diseases such as:

• hemorrhoids;
• anal fissure;
• anal abscess – infection in the glands of the rectum;
• diverticulitis/diverticulosis;
• Crohn’s disease;
• ulcerative colitis;
• gastric or duodenal ulcer;
• large polyps.

Blood in the stool cannot be normal, it is always a symptom of some disease. So be sure to see a doctor.

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defecation with constipation, regular stool, is it harmful to push in the toilet

What to do?

11/14/22

Gennady Popov

asked in the Community T⁠—⁠F

I don’t experience problems with bowel movements, but I constantly hear that there are some special rules on how to go to the toilet in a big way. Allegedly, they will help to avoid problems in the future. Is this true or, if nothing bothers you, these rules can not be followed?

Polina Kalmykova

also poops

Author’s profile

There really are such rules. They are based on human physiology, and it is useful for each of us to know them.

I will tell you exactly how a bowel movement occurs, how to facilitate bowel movements and why we need to think about it at all.

Go see a doctor

Our articles are written with love for evidence-based medicine. We refer to authoritative sources and go to doctors with a good reputation for comments. But remember: the responsibility for your health lies with you and your doctor. We don’t write prescriptions, we give recommendations. Relying on our point of view or not is up to you.

How the mechanism of defecation works

Defecation is a process that allows you to remove feces from the human body, that is, all undigested food residues. We control defecation, unlike many other processes that accompany digestion, such as salivation or intestinal motility. Normally, feces leave the body only when a person is ready for it.

We begin to feel the urge to defecate when feces accumulate in the rectum

Defecation starts in the final section of the intestine – the rectum. When it fills with feces, the receptors react to the stretching of the intestine and transmit a signal to the brain that it is time to go to the toilet.

Textbook “Fundamentals of Human Physiology” edited by N. A. Agadzhanyan

To prevent the intestine from emptying as it fills, the rectum is closed by two circular muscles – sphincters: internal and external. The inner one opens involuntarily when the receptors transmit a signal to the brain about the need to defecate. But the man himself controls the outside. Even if the rectum is already full, the sphincter will hold back feces until the person gets to the toilet and gives the body the command to act.

When a person is ready to defecate and signals this to the body, the external sphincter opens and the walls of the rectum begin to contract, pushing the feces out.

Sometimes these contractions are not enough – then the person has to push: tighten the diaphragm and abdominal muscles in order to increase the pressure inside the abdominal cavity and use it to push out the stool.

Additional force is required due to the fact that the end of the rectum is at an angle. When a person is standing, this angle is approximately 90°.

Effect of Posture on Defecation Restraint – International Journal of Colorectal Diseases

To poop easily, the person should assume a position that makes this angle as blunt as possible: this will help the stool not get stuck in the bend. Otherwise, pooping will still work, but you will have to make extra efforts to feel relief.

The curved arrow indicates the anorectal angle. Fecal masses must overcome it in order to leave the body. Source: Research Gate

How to poop properly

The sitting position helps smooth out the curve between the rectum and the anal canal, and the deeper the person sits, the easier it will be for the feces to descend to the anus.

Thus, the best position for defecation is squatting. Although this position may not be very comfortable, it allows you to empty your bowels quickly and without extra effort.

Comparison of strain during defecation in three positions: results and implications for human health – Pubmed

Despite the benefits for the body, many are not ready to give up the usual toilet in favor of a floor-standing structure. In this case, a footrest will help you to take the desired position.

Another way to soften the anorectal angle is to assume the thinker’s posture by bending the upper body. Studies have shown that 11 out of 22 volunteers who experienced problems with bowel movements in a sitting position were able to completely empty their bowels in this position.

Effect of Body Posture on Defecation: A Perspective Study of the Thinker Position – Pubmed

The more familiar way of sitting on the toilet does not smooth out the anorectal angle as much – it is more difficult to poop in this position than when the knees are raised above the pelvis. You can fix this with the help of a footboard – on Yandex Market it costs from 453 R. The more familiar way of sitting on the toilet does not smooth out the anorectal angle so much – it is more difficult to poop in this position than when the knees are raised above the pelvis. You can fix this with the help of a footboard – on Yandex Market it costs from 453 R

The “Genoa” bowl, or a toilet like a hole in the floor, allows you to take the most physiological position for defecation. Such a design on Yandex Market costs from 2710 R. The pose of the thinker is named after Rodin’s sculpture: this is exactly what the pose looks like, which facilitates defecation in a sitting position. Source: Wikipedia

Regardless of the position , doctors do not recommend sitting on the toilet for more than two minutes: this can aggravate hemorrhoidal disease, if it already exists, or lead to its development.

After defecation, the anus area must be cleaned of the remaining fragments of stool. To avoid irritation and itching, doctors recommend giving up toilet paper and giving preference to cleansing methods that do not require rubbing the skin: rinsing with clean water without soap and other detergents, blotting with damp wipes without fragrance or a damp cloth. If you have to use toilet paper in a public restroom, it is best to flush your anus with water as soon as possible.

Anal Itching – Drugs.com

Basic Anal Care – Permanente Magazine

Flush the anus from front to back to prevent infection from the rectum into the urinary tract.

Why pushing is bad and how to avoid constipation

Although the body has the ability to push stool, pushing often and hard is not safe: it can become one of the causes of hemorrhoids or rectal prolapse. Correct posture will help prevent severe straining only if a person has a normal stool, but with constipation this may not be enough.

Constipation: Symptoms, Causes and Complications – Mayo Clinic Article

Normal bowel movements are between three times a day and once every three days if the stools are soft and formed. If a person feels the urge to empty the bowels less than three times a week, and the stool is hard, dry and difficult to pass from the body, this condition is called constipation.

Stool types 3 and 4 are considered ideal. Types 1 and 2 indicate constipation.

Constipation forces a person to strain during bowel movements and also leads to complications: in addition to problems due to straining, hard stool can lead to tears in the anus or anal fissures. And this condition can make going to the toilet uncomfortable – too tiring or painful.

What to do with constipation?

Constipation can occur for a variety of reasons: due to other diseases, such as diabetes, certain medications, dietary habits, pregnancy or age, one in two people over 80 suffer from constipation.

But sometimes constipation is caused by factors associated with the defecation process itself. So, frequent suppression of the urge to empty the intestines can lead to regular constipation.

To determine the cause of constipation and choose the right treatment, you need to seek help from a general practitioner. Perhaps, based on the results of the consultation, he will give a referral to a gastroenterologist and a proctologist. Figuring out on your own which part of your digestive tract is causing constipation can be tricky.

What else affects defecation

To ensure that bowel movements do not cause inconvenience, it is important not only to properly organize the process itself, but also to prepare the body for it in advance with the help of diet, sports and routine.

Diet. The quality of stool is affected by the amount of fiber we consume. Its deficiency can cause both constipation and diarrhea. The more dietary fiber in the feces, the less stress is required during defecation, bowel movements occur more completely and with greater regularity.

How to cure hemorrhoids

Most fiber is found in vegetables, fruits with skins, and raw grains such as whole grain pasta or cereals with minimal refining. The normal amount of fiber per day for an adult is about 30 grams.

It is worth increasing the amount of fiber in the diet gradually: it can provoke bloating and increased gas formation.

Physical exercise. Sports activities increase muscle activity, including in the intestines – this helps the body to remove feces faster and more efficiently.

Mode. The habit of going to the toilet at the same time, without haste and tension, also contributes to the normalization of bowel movements.

Relationship between sleep disorders and bowel dysfunction – Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Digestion

The quality of sleep can also affect bowel movements: if a person wakes up frequently during the night or does not get enough sleep, he is at increased risk of constipation.