The frequency of your bowel movements might reveal more about your long-term health than you think. A recent study, published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine, analyzed health data from over 1,400 healthy American adults, discovering a connection between bowel movement frequency, gut microbiome, and the risk of chronic diseases.
Researchers categorized participants into four groups based on their self-reported bowel movement frequency: constipation (one or two movements per week), low-normal (three to six movements per week), high-normal (one to three daily), and diarrhoea (four or more times per day). The study found that those with abnormal bowel movements exhibited reduced organ function, with constipation linked to decreased kidney function and diarrhoea associated with reduced liver function.
The study also revealed that younger individuals, women, and those with a lower body mass index (BMI) tended to have less frequent bowel movements. Participants who pooped once or twice a day had higher levels of gut bacteria that digest fiber, while those with constipation or diarrhoea had bacteria associated with protein fermentation. Interestingly, the study also found a correlation between depression or anxiety and a higher likelihood of constipation.
Dr. Sean Gibbons, the study’s lead author, emphasized the importance of one to two bowel movements per day as the ideal frequency. He explained that when people are constipated, gut bacteria ferment proteins, releasing toxins into the bloodstream, which can contribute to chronic diseases and kidney dysfunction. Diarrhoea, on the other hand, was linked to increased inflammation and blood markers indicative of reduced liver function.
While the exact mechanisms connecting constipation to kidney dysfunction and diarrhoea to liver dysfunction remain unclear, the study suggests potential pathways for future research. The study found that individuals who consumed a fibre-rich diet, stayed hydrated, and exercised regularly tended to have healthier bowel movement frequency. Experts recommend prioritizing a healthy diet, particularly one rich in fruits and vegetables, while reducing red meat and alcohol consumption to support a healthy gut microbiome.
This study provides valuable insights into the intricate connection between bowel movement frequency, gut health, and overall well-being. While further research is needed to establish definitive causal links, the findings underscore the importance of maintaining regular bowel movements through a healthy lifestyle for promoting gut health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
