What does your POO say about you?

DID YOU KNOW YOUR GUT SENDS YOU A DAILY REPORT CARD (YOUR POO!)

While it might not be the most glamorous subject, paying attention to the signals our bodies send, in this case via our daily poo (or not so daily - we'll get to that later) can be incredibly insightful.

Here's a simple guide:

STEP 1 : Begin by printing out The Bristol Stool Chart and pop it up in your toilet.

STEP 2 : Yep, you're going to have to start looking in the toilet bowl after you do your business. (I did warn you it wasn't glamorous, but it is going to be fascinating).

STEP 3 : What do you see? Other than the obvious poo, what TYPE on The Bristol Stool Chart is YOUR poo?

Now The Fun Begins!

Beginning at the firmer end of the Bristol Stool Chart with Types 1 and 2, we encounter slower, harder stools, potentially linked to constipation or infrequent bowel movements. 

“POOING EVERY COUPLE OF DAYS IS HEALTHY & NORMAL RIGHT?” 

The simple answer . . . “Well, NO! It’s not actually!”

There are many factors involved in HOW OFTEN you have a bowel motion. Are you constipated? How much fibre have you eaten? Are you a nervous poo'er? Does coffee upset your gut? Do you need a coffee to have a bowel motion? Do you enjoy the foods you shouldn’t eat and spend the rest of the night on the toilet?

Factors such as constipation, low fiber intake, sedentary lifestyle, dehydration, stress, gut disorders, certain medications such as poor forms of iron (ferrous fumarate / sulphate), pregnancy and underlying health issues like thyroid conditions can affect your stool frequency.

TO PROMOTE REGULAR, HEALTHY BOWEL MOVEMENTS : 

• Eat Fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, 

• Stay Hydrated with water and herbal teas (such as Ginger, Fennel, Chamomile, Peppermint), 

• Consume Healthy Fats to help lubricate the intestines and promoting smoother passage out. 

Additionally, including prebiotic and probiotic-rich foods, maintaining physical activity, and paying attention to the urge to go are beneficial for digestive well-being.

Failing to have a daily bowel movement allows your body to retain waste for extended periods, leading to the reabsorption of water and certain toxins. This puts significant strain on your body and well, your butt too (think haemorrhoids). 

QUICK TIP : 

If you find you are straining on the toilet try the, 'Squatty Potty'. 

This is a small stool that you rest your feet on while you are going to the toilet. This supports the bowels to be in the optimal position for elimination. You can also try Breathwork at the same time. (It works a treat).

On the other end of the spectrum, Types 5, 6, and 7 signify looser, more frequent bowel movements, often associated with diarrhoea. Diarrhoea may occur due to dietary triggers, stress or chronic / severe gut issues which requires investigation.

IF YOU'RE DEALING WITH DIARRHOEA: 

• Increase your soluble fiber intake with foods like oats, apples, and bananas to help bulk up stools and slow their passage through the intestines. 

• Identify and avoid trigger foods like gluten, dairy, fried fatty foods, caffeine, processed foods, and alcohol. 

• Staying hydrated is crucial to prevent dehydration associated with diarrhoea.

Additionally, including probiotic-rich foods can help restore a balanced gut flora.

While these above tips contribute to healthy digestion, addressing the root cause of your individual concerns is important. This is where a Naturopath comes in to uncover and address your triggers, provide personalised dietary and herbal strategies, and suggest lifestyle adjustments. Furthermore, Functional Testing may be recommended as it pinpoints specific issues in your gut.

By nurturing your digestive system and fostering regular pooping habits, we are empowered to lead a healthier, more vibrant life. Remember, your overall health is a reflection of your gut health.

To make an appointment - www.thefloranaturopath.com.au/book-now

Email - hello@sarahjeanhealth.com