One issue that affects many millennials is the struggle with digestion and constipation. Recent studies have shown a concerning increase in the number of individuals experiencing chronic constipation. This rise in cases has also led to a surge in emergencies, hospitalizations, fevers, and various other health complications associated with constipation. Many of us in urban areas are making a common mistake when it comes to our bowel movements: using an English
toilet. Although diet is important, this is one aspect that often goes overlooked.
In the era of globalization,
toilets have undergone a transformation, now designed to provide a more comfortable sitting experience rather than the traditional squatting position. For quite some time now, experts have been highlighting the negative effects of the western toilet position on our digestive system. There have been several studies on the subject that have shed light on the potential negative effects of western toilets, including constipation, hemorrhoids, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), appendicitis, and even heart attacks.
The standard sitting position:
Imagine yourself in a seated position, with your hips comfortably bent at a 90-degree angle in relation to your upper body. This position can be quite detrimental as it can obstruct the flow of your intestines and essentially block it. It exerts additional strain on your bowels, which contradicts the fundamental principles of physics.
Many people adopt a sitting position where they lean their upper body forward, thinking that it can increase pressure on the bowels and improve excretion. On the contrary, leaning forward can actually impede the movement of the intestines.
The perfect position:
Did you know that the 35-degree squat position is actually the best way to ensure smooth stool passage without any constriction? This position is commonly used in traditional Indian toilets.
Did you know that sitting on the toilet can actually make it harder to have a bowel movement? When your knees and upper legs are at a 90-degree angle to your abdomen, it narrows your anal canal and can cause some discomfort. When squatting, the position of your knees brings your abdomen closer, resulting in a change in the relationship between your rectum and sphincter. This altered positioning of your organs and muscles helps to relax your rectum. According to Dr. Mercola, this method greatly enhances the effectiveness of your evacuation.
