How frequent is normal? Bowel movements and their impact on your health

How frequent is normal? Bowel movements and their impact on your health

The frequency of bowel movements plays an important role in human health, as current research from the USA shows. A new study has examined the connection between bowel movement frequency and the risk of chronic diseases, providing important insights that are of interest not only to those affected, but also to the wider public.

Health risks caused by irregular bowel movements

The research team led by Sean M. Gibbons from the University of Washington in Seattle has found that both infrequent and too frequent bowel movements are associated with health risks. A normal bowel movement frequency is considered to be between three times a day and three times a week. Frequency outside this range may indicate unhealthy eating habits or underlying health problems.

In the study published in the journalCell Reports Medicinewas published, the researchers analyzed the stools of over 1,400 healthy American participants and found that abnormal bowel movement frequency correlates with impaired organ function.

The influence of the microbiome

A central point of research is the intestinal microbiome, i.e. the accumulation of microbes in the intestine that play an important role in overall health. The researchers found that a healthy bowel movement frequency has a positive effect on the composition of intestinal bacteria and can therefore also reduce the risk of serious illnesses such as chronic kidney disease or dementia.

Optimal bowel movement frequency

The study authors recommend a bowel movement frequency of once or twice a day as an indicator of a healthy lifestyle. These numbers suggest that overall health is promoted by regular elimination and associated good eating habits.

Practical recommendations for healthy bowel movements

To regulate bowel movements, health experts recommend eating a high-fiber diet, drinking enough fluids and exercising regularly. These simple measures can not only have a positive effect on bowel movements, but also prevent chronic diseases and thus increase the quality of life.

Conclusion: Simple changes with a big impact

Research shows that paying attention to our home toilet can have far-reaching consequences for our health. Healthy bowel movements are not only a sign of a functioning body, but can also help to significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases. By better understanding the connections and making small adjustments to our lifestyle, we can ultimately positively influence both our quality of life and our life expectancy.

The article is based on extensive research and is intended as a general source of information. If you have specific health questions, you should always consult a doctor.