Bowel movements and health: This is how frequency affects your well-being

Bowel movements and health: This is how frequency affects your well-being

A new study from the US has found that the frequency of bowel movements has a significant impact on a person's health and lifespan. Researchers at the University of Washington in Seattle have examined how personal bowel movements are linked to chronic diseases such as dementia and what insights this could have for public health.

Key findings from the study

The research collected data from about 1,400 healthy Americans. In addition, their eating habits were analyzed and blood samples were taken. The results show that both infrequent and too frequent bowel movements are associated with health problems. In particular, abnormal bowel movement frequencies have been found to be linked to the accumulation of harmful substances in the body, which increase the risk of chronic diseases.

The influence of diet and lifestyle

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in healthy bowel movements. According to the study authors, a frequency of once or twice a day is ideal and indicates a healthy lifestyle. To regulate bowel movements, experts recommend eating a high-fiber diet, drinking enough fluids and exercising regularly.

Public health consequences

These findings are of great importance, not only for individual health, but also for healthcare as a whole. Constipation, often thought of as less serious, could actually be a sign of serious health problems. Study author Sean M. Gibbons and his team therefore view the connection between bowel movement frequency and human health as an important field of research.

What does this mean for the population?

For many people, being aware of your bowel movement frequency could be a simple way to promote health and identify potential risks in good time. Therefore, regular visits to the doctor and dealing with your own health should become routine.

Summary of recommendations

To promote intestinal health and minimize the risk of chronic diseases, it is recommended:

• Ballaststoffreiche Lebensmittel wie Haferflocken, Obst und Gemüse in den Speiseplan zu integrieren.
• Ausreichend Wasser zu trinken, um die Verdauung zu unterstützen.
• Regelmäßige körperliche Bewegung zu praktizieren, um den Stoffwechsel anzukurbeln.

The research results were published on July 16, 2024 in the journal Cell Reports Medicine and contribute to a better understanding of the connections between nutrition, lifestyle and health. It is important that people learn to listen to their body's signals and seek medical advice if necessary to promote their long-term health.