Bowel movements, often considered a taboo subject, can actually provide valuable insights into your overall health.

    Unlike many, you don't always need to poop daily. There is a wide range of what is considered "normal" when it comes to going to the bathroom.

    Normal can mean a poop schedule that doesn't change much. If you usually go once a day, but then skip a few days, then go 3 in a day, it's not that concerning. Except, if this does not happen all the time suddenly. Unexpected changes and you should talk to your Doctor.

    Less frequent but complete bowel movements can be healthier than frequent, incomplete ones. If you are straining to poop and it takes more than 30 minutes, you should be eating high-fiber foods, staying hydrated, and exercising.

	While pooping too much or too little can both be harmful, straining while pooping can cause other issues.

    The Bristol stool chart categorizes bowel movements from 1-7. Types 3-4 (sausage or snake-like) are ideal. Achieving this indicates good hydration and fiber intake. Types 1-2 and 7 types indicate that you have problems.

    However, if you'd like to check if you are having a Bristol stool type 7,  use a small scoop or ladle. If your poop raises too much, you may have too much gas, eat a diet with high fat content or experience GI tract issues. If your stool is pale, you may have problems with your liver, pancreas, or  gallbladder.

    Healthy poop is usually brown or greenish and not black. It should sink quickly. If there's blood in it, it is either a minor problem or a major. If your stool smells particularly bad and it isn't anything you ate, you may have a serious health problem. See a Doctor if you think that is the case.

	Pooping should not take more than a few minutes. Straining or spending too much time in the bathroom can lead to issues like reduced circulation, pelvic floor dysfunction, or hemorrhoids.

	Unhealthy bowel signs include: frequent pain, blood in the toilet, lack of bowel control, black stool, and chronic diarrhea.  if this sounds like you,  see your doctor.

	To maintain healthy bowel habits,  use hygiene by drinking enough water and eating fiber. It will help you avoid constipation. Also, consider doing more exercise. This will help your bowels work smoothly.

		If your bathroom habits suddenly change, you are in pain, or you have gone more than one week without going, consult a doctor.

Poop Talk: What Your Bowel Movements Really Tell You About Your Health

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