- Spending too long on the toilet can cause hemorrhoids, fissures and pelvic floor issues.
- Gastroenterologist says pooping should take just a few minutes—avoid scrolling or reading.
- Boost fiber, hydration, activity and use a footstool to help relieve constipation naturally.
We all go no. 2, but how long it takes for us to do it might vary. Gastroenterologist Joseph Salhab, M.D. took to Instagram to discuss this topic, and he reveals that the time you spend on the toilet could cause long-term concerns.
“Spending too much time on the toilet is linked to hemorrhoids, fissures and even pelvic floor problems,” Salhab shares in a recent post.
Longer toilet time might be caused by constipation, or by bathroom habits like scrolling on your phone or reading. Either way, you may be straining on the seat, meaning your likelihood for potential health issues skyrockets. Here’s how long it should really take you to poop, plus gastroenterologist-approved tips to help you go faster if constipation is the problem.
According to Salhab, there’s no exact timeframe you should strive for, but you should try to limit your squatting time.
“I don’t want to put a strict time limit on bathroom time, but if it does take longer than a few minutes, then that’s a problem,” the gastroenterologist explains.
The toilet shouldn’t be used for anything other than going, so leave your phone, book and other distractions away from the seat. Beyond this, here are some more habits that Salhab recommends to help you poop faster to optimize your bathroom break:
- Eat more fiber: Salhab suggests at least 35 grams of fiber per day, which is slightly more than the recommendations for the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Consider adding more fiber to your diet a little at a time, as adding too much fiber at once can exacerbate constipation
- Prioritize hydration: Starting your day with fruits like kiwi, dragon fruit, apples and pears will increase your fiber and water intake. The gastroenterologist recommends adding a warm beverage like coffee or green tea to keep things flowing.
- Stay active: Simple forms of exercise like walking, yoga and even stretching can help keep things moving externally—and internally, too. Pairing exercise with a glass of water is a natural way to help relieve constipation.
- Use a Squatty Potty or stool: Elevating your legs causes less strain, so consider a gastroenterologist-recommended Squatty Potty or a modest footstool to help align your colon.
For a place to start, try our high-fiber chia seed recipes that encourage regularity. And if you’ve tried these home remedies and you’re still struggling with constipation, Salhab recommends consulting a gastroenterologist.
