We don't talk about it often, but it's something everyone deals with daily: bowel movements. How often do you actually need to go to the bathroom? What's a normal color or odor? And what if your stool is too hard or too soft?
Healthy digestion is more important than you might think. It says a lot about how your body functions and how well your food is absorbed. In this article, you'll discover how to keep your bowel movements smooth, what exactly constitutes good bowel movements, and the role of nutrition, magnesium, and fiber.
What is healthy stool?
Healthy stool is usually soft, well-formed, and easy to pass . The color ranges from light brown to dark brown , and the odor is, let's face it, never pleasant. But of course, it shouldn't be extremely smelly either.
How often you need to go to the toilet varies from person to person. For some, three times a day is normal, for others, once every two days . As long as your bowel movements are smooth and you're not experiencing any symptoms, that's fine.
You only need to worry if your stool is noticeably hard or watery , if you see undigested matter , or if it smells in an unusual way.
Common problems
Hard or stuck stools
Many people experience hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. Sometimes they even resemble pellets . This is not only unpleasant but also a sign that your bowels aren't functioning smoothly.
Causes:
- Drinking too little
- A low-fiber diet
- Lack of exercise
- Stress
Fortunately, there are simple ways to improve this.
Poorly digested stool
You might notice undigested bits of food in the toilet bowl, such as corn, seeds, or vegetables. This is often harmless, but if you consistently have undigested or poorly digested stool, it could indicate digestive problems. Too much intestinal transit can also play a role.
Stool smells very bad
A somewhat unpleasant odor is normal, but if the smell is really intense or changes suddenly , it could indicate a disruption in your gut flora. A high-protein diet or certain supplements can also affect the odor of your stool.
What can you do for better bowel movements?
1. Drink enough water
Hydration is crucial. Without enough fluid, your bowels can't soften stool, resulting in hard or sticky stool. Try to drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day.
2. Eat fiber-rich foods (but in moderation)
Fiber provides bulk and stimulates bowel movements. It's found in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes, among other foods. Note: too much fiber without sufficient fluid can actually be counterproductive and worsen your bowel movements.
3. Exercise regularly
An active lifestyle helps your bowels function. Even a daily walk can make a noticeable difference.
4. If necessary, use magnesium
Magnesium can help with sluggish bowel movements. It draws moisture into the intestines and softens stool, making it easier to pass. Various forms, such as magnesium citrate, have mild laxative properties. If in doubt, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
5. Pay attention to the time between eating and having a bowel movement
The time between eating and having a bowel movement varies from person to person, but is typically between 12 and 48 hours. A sudden change in this timing can indicate something about your bowel function. Keep track of what's normal for you.
When is it good to seek help?
If you consistently suffer from hard or watery stools, see a lot of undigested food or if you notice that your stools change significantly in smell or frequency, it is wise to seek medical help.
You should also discuss this with a doctor if your stool is stuck or painful for a long time, or if you have bloody or black stools.
Balance your bowel movements with Gut Support Gummies
Healthy bowel movements are a sign that your body is functioning healthily. By paying attention to your diet, exercise, hydration, and gut health, you can achieve a balanced bowel movement.
What ingredients are in Gut Support gummies and what symptoms do they help with?
The Gut Support gummies (developed by pharmacists) contain a scientific blend of four powerful, natural ingredients that target your gut health:
-
Inulin – a plant fiber that acts as a prebiotic . It nourishes beneficial gut bacteria and contributes to regular bowel movements. This can help reduce the symptoms of slow or hard stools.
-
GOS-OP (galacto-oligosaccharides) – a gentle prebiotic fiber, also suitable for sensitive guts. GOS-OP promotes beneficial bacteria such as bifidobacteria, which can help with bloating and intestinal rumbling.
-
L-glutamine – an amino acid that contributes to the repair and strength of the intestinal wall. This is important for gut comfort and can help with symptoms such as abdominal pain or flatulence.
-
Lactobacillus helveticus – a scientifically proven probiotic. It supports healthy gut flora, which improves overall digestion and contributes to more regular and softer bowel movements.
What complaints can they help alleviate?
The combination of these ingredients makes the Gut Support gummies effective for:
- Bloating and flatulence
- Rumbling intestines or irregular bowel movements
- To support sensitive intestines, with and without a diagnosis of IBS
- Promoting regular, soft and more comfortable bowel movements.
Users often notice a difference within 2 to 4 weeks. Curious if this is right for you?
Ready to help your gut?
Give it a try. You'll quickly notice the difference, and your intestines will thank you.
