Bowel movements are the process of eliminating waste from the body, including urine and feces. This waste comes from digesting various foods. Defecation is a necessary process for the body, helping to maintain balance and eliminate accumulated toxins and waste. Caring for a healthy digestive system allows the body to efficiently remove waste, reducing disease risk. Bowel movements are therefore a top priority for human digestive health.
The human digestive system consists of:
• Small intestine – An essential part of the digestive system, breaking down food and absorbing nutrients into the body.
• Large intestine – Connects to the small intestine, absorbing remaining water and
minerals and eliminating waste from the body.
• Anus – The opening through which feces exits the body.
For a normal person, bowel movements occur around every 12-24 hours. Normal stool is light
to dark brown, round or oval-shaped, not overly hard or loose. Abnormal bowel movements
like constipation, diarrhea, frequent movements or infrequent movements can negatively impact health.
Tips for Healthy Bowel Function
• Eat high-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains – Makes stool softer and easier to pass.
• Drink adequate fluids – Also softens stool for easier movements.
• Exercise regularly – Helps the digestive system work efficiently.
• Don’t delay bowel movements – Allows easier passage through the intestines.
Common Bowel Issues
• Constipation – Slowed intestinal motility hardens and dries stool, making it difficult to pass. Causes include inadequate hydration, low-fiber diet, habitually delaying bowel movements, medications, diabetes, hypothyroidism.
• Diarrhea – Increased intestinal motility yields loose, frequent stools. Causes include contaminated food, bacterial/viral infection, certain medications, conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
• Frequent movements – Speedier motility moves stool rapidly through the body.
Causes include high-fiber foods, excessive fluids, habitually delaying bowel movements, medications, conditions like IBS.
• Infrequent movements – Slowed motility reduces bowel movements. Causes include inadequate hydration, low-fiber diet, habitually delaying bowel movements, conditions like IBS.
