Does Propping Your Feet Up Help You Poop? Let’s Talk About It.
Okay, let’s be real for a sec. Pooping. It’s something we all do, but nobody really talks about, right? But what if I told you there’s a super simple trick – like, ridiculously simple – that could make the whole process a whole lot easier? We’re talking about propping your feet up. Seriously.
For a lot of folks, going number two isn’t exactly a walk in the park. It can be a struggle, infrequent, and just plain uncomfortable. So, can just sticking a little stool under your feet actually make a difference? Turns out, yeah, it totally can. And the science – and our evolutionary history – backs it up.
Think about how we used to do things. Way back when, before fancy porcelain thrones, squatting was the name of the game. And guess what? Our bodies are actually designed for it. See, modern toilets, as comfy as they are, might actually be messing with our natural plumbing. That seated position? It can create a bit of a kink in your rectum – that’s the last stop for your, ahem, “package” before delivery.
There’s this muscle called the puborectalis, and it’s like a sling that keeps things… well, contained. But when you’re sitting, it keeps that kink in place. Squatting, on the other hand, is like hitting the “release” button. It relaxes that muscle, straightens everything out, and lets things flow much more smoothly. Imagine a garden hose with a bend in it – that’s your rectum sitting down. Straighten it out, and whoosh!
So, how does the foot-propping thing come into play? Simple: it mimics squatting. By getting your knees up higher than your hips, you’re essentially telling that puborectalis muscle to chill out. And that can lead to some pretty awesome benefits:
- Less Grunting Required: Squatting means less straining, which is a huge win for preventing things like hemorrhoids (ouch!), anal fissures (double ouch!), and even pelvic floor issues.
- A More Satisfying Finish: Straightening things out down there means a more complete evacuation. No more feeling like you’ve still got some “leftovers.”
- Speedier Deliveries: Seriously, studies have shown that using a footstool can cut down on your bathroom time. Who doesn’t want that?
- Happy Gut, Happy Life (Maybe): If you’re dealing with IBS, constipation, or just general bloating, this could be a game-changer. It can help things move more efficiently and ease that discomfort.
You’ve probably heard of the “Squatty Potty.” It’s the rockstar of toilet stools, but there are tons of similar options out there. The idea is the same: a little platform that fits around your toilet and gets your feet up where they need to be.
One study found that a whopping 90% of people who used a Squatty Potty strained less. And get this – 71% had faster bowel movements! People also reported feeling more empty and less… strained, shall we say. Honestly, if you look at online reviews, people are pretty darn happy with these things.
So, how do you get in on this action? Easy peasy:
- Find the Right Height: You want a stool that gets your knees up above your hips. Play around with different heights to find what feels best.
- Position is Key: Just stick the stool in front of your toilet so your feet can chill on it while you’re doing your business.
- Relax and Let It Happen: Seriously, don’t force anything. Just breathe and let your body do its thing.
Now, are there any downsides? Not really, but a few people might feel a little weird at first. And a tiny percentage have reported things like muscle soreness, a tingly feeling in their legs, or even a fall. So, you know, be careful. If anything feels seriously wrong, stop and chat with your doctor.
But hey, propping your feet up is just one piece of the puzzle. A happy gut needs a few other things, too:
- Fiber, Fiber, Fiber: Load up on fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Think of fiber as the broom that sweeps everything clean. Aim for around 25-34 grams a day.
- Hydration is Your Friend: Water keeps things soft and moving. Drink up!
- Get Moving: Exercise helps get your bowels moving, too.
- Listen to Your Body: When you gotta go, you gotta go! Don’t ignore the urge. And try to get into a regular bathroom routine. Everyone’s different, but somewhere between three times a week and three times a day is considered normal.
Alright, so here’s the deal: propping your feet up while you poop can totally help things flow more smoothly. It’s a simple, cheap trick that mimics the squatting position our bodies were designed for. It’s not a miracle cure, but it can definitely make a difference. And hey, if you’re having ongoing issues, definitely talk to your doctor to make sure everything’s A-OK. Happy pooping!