THINK you know how to go for a poo? Think again.
It turns out our modern toilet-using habits can stop us from properly emptying our bowels.
According to an expert, plonking ourselves on the loo in a seated position can actually prevent our bodies from getting rid of poo.
Instead, we should find a way to squat.
Georgia Reupert-Allen, a physiotherapist and women's health expert, has shared some tips to help us find the ideal pooing position.
In a video posted on TikTok, Georgia placed her feet on small box in front of her pretend toilet to elevate her legs while pooping.
Read more on pooing
How often should you be pooing? Dr Zoe shares optimum routine
You’ve been pooing all wrong – and it could be putting your health at risk
She suggested "relaxing your belly and lengthening the pelvic floor" – which should help prevent kinks in the rectum which could cause blockages.
"Then do some pelvic circles," Georgia added.
This involves moving the hips in wide circles – clockwise and anticlockwise.
If you feel as though you are "not finished", trying standing up and sitting down to help create more of an "urge" and get your stool moving, the expert said.
Most read in Health
Shock probe finds NHS hospitals rely on X-ray machines from the 1980s
Superfruit helping you burn more fat while exercising revealed
I was rushed to hospital with horrible blisters after a manicure at nail salon
Gwyneth Paltrow’s rectal therapy health craze blasted as 'nonsense' by expert
And finally, make sure to "always respond to the first urge to go," she added.
NORMAL FOR YOU
When it comes to going for a number two, plenty of people aren’t really sure what’s normal.
Depending on your diet, age, and activity, regularity can mean anything from three bowel movements a day to three each week.
Keeping an eye on what's 'normal' for you though is crucial, as is being aware of the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer.
The NHS says the five red-flag symptoms of bowel cancer include:
- Bleeding from the back passage, or blood in your poo
- A change in your normal toilet habits – going more frequently for example
- Pain or a lump in your tummy
- Extreme tiredness
- Losing weight
If you notice any changes to your usual habits, don't be embarrassed, speak to your GP.
One expert also previously warned that you had been wiping your bum wrong.
Dr Teresa Irwin warned that women who wipe back to front may be exposing themselves to nasty urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Source: Read Full Article