by Nadia Sinclair

Caring for your gut shouldn’t be a taboo topic; it’s a vital aspect of overall wellbeing. In a world where issues such as coeliac disease affect roughly 1% of the population, it’s prudent we shift focus towards our bowel health. Here, we explore the best care practices for your colon as well as essential diet advice aimed at promoting seamless digestion. So, let’s talk bowels!

Bolster Your Bowel with these 5 Crucial Steps

1. Embrace the Importance of Breakfast

Contrary to the notion that skipping breakfast promotes digestive detox, neglecting your morning meal could be detrimental to your bowel health. Renowned gastroenterologist, Dr. Peter Whorwell, underscores that neglecting breakfast misses the critical period when your gastrocolic reflex, the urge to poop, is at its peak. This might steer you towards bowel disorders like constipation or IBS. However, there’s no need to panic if breakfast isn’t your strength. Boosting your dietary fiber to 30g a day, as suggested by nutritionist Angela Dowden, can be a game-changer for your bowel wellbeing.

2. Add a Dose of Prebiotics and Probiotics

Antibiotics, while beneficial, can offset your gut health by assassinating the beneficial gut flora along with the harmful bacteria. An excellent remedy for this issue is to add probiotics found in foods like natural yoghurt, fermented foods, or a probiotic supplement – they help replenish and rebalance your gut microbiome. In addition, introducing prebiotics into your diet ensures a steady supply of ‘food’ for the good bacteria, nurtures your bowel, and promotes a healthy balance of gut flora. Foods rich in prebiotics include whole grains and green vegetables, or you could consider prebiotic supplements.

3. Time is Essential on the Throne

Struggling or rushing on the toilet can contribute to painful or troubling conditions like haemorrhoids and prolapse. If you’re struggling with constipation, try tweaking your sitting position on the toilet. Lean forward slightly with your knees higher than your hips, maintain a straight spine, and rest your elbows on your knees. This technique positions your rectal muscles for a more natural and effortless elimination.

4. Be Vigilant to Signs of Bowel Disorders

Monitoring your symptoms alongside your diet can reveal patterns that signal serious health issues. Symptoms like loose stools accompanied by blood or mucus could hint at severe conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or even bowel cancer. Should these symptoms arise, seek professional medical advice and whatever necessary tests and treatments may follow.

5. Heed the Call of Nature

Ignoring the urge to poop can lead to long-term constipation, blocked bowels, and unintentional leakage. Further, toxins could permeate the gut barrier into the body. If ‘performing’ in a public restroom is your struggle, consider carrying a toilet spray in your bag to mask any unpleasant odours. Your bowel health is important; don’t let embarrassment wreak havoc on its wellbeing.

This article was inspired by our understanding of the importance of the gut in overall health and our commitment to promote awareness about gut health. Ultimately, the condition of your gut influences your health in more ways than one.

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