Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images
Apologies if you’re perusing this article in a private moment, but a medical professional has issued a crucial caution about sitting, defecating, and scrolling.
First and foremost, I won’t deny my appreciation for a satisfying scrolling session during certain personal moments. And before any judgment ensues, rest assured, I’m not alone in this sentiment.
On average, men dedicate a collective seven hours per year to toilet time, reportedly seeking a bit of tranquility and solitude.
However, while you may believe you’re flushing away your troubles, you could inadvertently be triggering a concerning issue in the long run.
Don’t spend too much time s**tting and scrolling. Credit: Getty Stock Images
As per Dr. Joseph Salhab, also known as The Stomach Doc, prolonged periods of sitting on the toilet can have detrimental effects on your health.
And this concern extends beyond mere hygiene considerations.
The doctor elaborated on his TikTok channel, stating that extended periods of sitting and straining pose a risk for developing hemorrhoids.
More commonly known as piles, these protrusions in and around the anal area “can be painful and bleed,” as explained by the gastroenterologist in a TikTok video.
Nevertheless, Dr. Salhab shared some tips to facilitate a quicker visit to the toilet and minimize the time spent on your throne.
“Definitely try to limit your phone use while you’re using the bathroom, and you can use a stepping stool,” he advised.
Dr Joseph Salhab aka The Stomach Doc. Credit: TikTok/@thestomachdoc
“When you elevate your feet, it facilitates a smoother passage of stool, offering significant benefits.”
The specialist also recommended individuals to enhance their fiber consumption to expedite the digestive process.
He suggested biting into kiwi fruit, dragon fruit, apples, pears, and prunes to stimulate and initiate your bowel movements.
“Vitamin C is also beneficial,” Dr. Salhab added. “You can consider supplementing with fiber, such as psyllium husk, and incorporate it into your preferred beverage.”
On average, men spend a total of seven hours a year on the toilet and it’s apparently because they want ‘to get some peace and quiet’. Credit: Getty Stock Images
Drinking an ample amount of water will also assist in getting things moving, as the gastroenterologist mentioned that it complements the effects of fiber.
Social media users flocked to the comment section to express their opinions on Dr. Salhab’s advice.
One individual commented, “Seems like there’s nothing one can do these days!”
Another person remarked, “I never sit for more than ten minutes. I’m afraid of getting hemorrhoids.”
A third contributor humorously noted, “Here I am, watching this while on the toilet.”
A fourth person joined the conversation, saying, “I learned this the hard way, folks. I’m not kidding.”
For those attempting to delay nature’s call, Dr. Salhab emphasized that one “should not avoid it.”
