Can using a Squatty potty or a squatted position really improve the way we poop?
Squatting has been the natural defecation position for centuries. Only after indoor sanitation became common, did we start this modern seated position with our feet on the ground.
Squatting while using the toilet is the most natural way for the colon. When you pinch the intestine, you make it harder for the digestive system. Picture a garden hose and folding that garden hose…this traps the water and doesn’t let it flow through the hose. It’s kind of the same situation when the intestine is pinched because of improper elimination position.
Problems associated with sitting on a regular toilet
1. Hemorrhoids
There are many underlying factors that result in hemorrhoids, but sitting on a toilet and straining during elimination, can only contribute to hemorrhoids.
2. Constipation
Modern day toilets certainly aren’t the only cause for constipation here. The average American doesn’t consume the recommended amount of fiber and vegetables. While Constipation is a sign that something is out of balance within the gut, the modern toilet sitting position only contributes to dry stools that are difficult to push out.
3. Colon Disease
In order to maintain your colon health one should be eliminating each day. And if in combination with a low nutrient diet and poor elimination position, this can cause fecal buildup. When this buildup occurs, this makes it more difficult for our body to absorb the necessary nutrients from foods we eat.
4. Urinary Infections
When women urinate in the squatted position, this creates for a more natural flow and empties out the bladder. Urinary infections are more likely when urinating in a seated position.
5. Pelvic Floor Issues
The modern elimination position puts a lot of pressure on the anorectal angle of the colon. This causes the lower part of the colon to drop, protruding into the vaginal wall, which then puts unnecessary pressure on the pelvic floor.
The Angle DOES matter
In regular seated position, we create an anorectal angle which works like the folded water hose example I gave earlier. The anorectal angle creates upward pressure on the rectum, which makes it harder to eliminate the feces. Which is when you are left with the straining to get it out.
In a squatted position, this angle is corrected and unfolds that trap, allowing for a natural flow.
Where can I get one?
There are plenty of styles and sizes in the world of toilet stools. Mine is pretty basic, and if you’d like to spend a little more, there are even stylish bamboo squatty potties too! Oh my! Most can be found online or at a Bed Bath & Beyond type store.
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Basic Squatty Potty will run for $24.99 Find HERE
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Bamboo Squatty Flip will run for $36 Find HERE
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Stylish Squatty Potty will run for $60 – $80 Find HERE
Hi, I love this post. I am a Pelvic Health Physical Therapist in Albuquerque NM. I am designing a handout for my patients titled “Better Pooping”. I am looking for an image such as the ones from your webpage above depicting using a stool to defecate. I am particularly looking for one which will copy well since this handout will be given to many patients.
I am writing to ask if I could have permission to use one or more of the images above. I would be happy to credit your site.
Thank you for your consideration,
Erin Yane