For the vast majority of human evolution, humans did not use toilets. When they felt the urge, they left their shelter and simply squatted outside to do their business.
Scientists at Ohio State say the human digestive system is designed to have bowel movements while in a squatting position. But today, when we use toilets, we are more upright, in a sitting position.
And that is why so many of us suffer from common bowel issues like constipation, researchers say.
They suggest a simple solution…
The “Easy Fix” for Constipation
Dr. Peter Stanich was part of the Ohio State study team. He points out that toilet stools have become a popular constipation remedy. But until recently there was no medical evidence to show whether or not they were effective.[i]
The plastic stools are about nine inches tall. They are curved to wrap around the base of a toilet. Users put their feet on them while they are using the toilet. This puts them in a more natural squatting position.
Dr. Stanich and his research team recruited 52 healthy participants. At the start, 44% reported straining during bowel movements. A third said they had difficulty completely emptying their bowels.[ii]
The study lasted four weeks. By the end, 71% of subjects had faster bowel movements. Ninety percent reported less straining.
Two-thirds of participants felt so much better that they said they would continue using a toilet stool.
“These simple devices may help symptoms like constipation, bloating, and incomplete emptiness,” said Dr. Stanich. It can “help people have more comfortable and effective bowel movements.”
About 42 million Americans suffer from constipation. The condition can lead to other problems, such as hemorrhoids and bloating. Over time, there can be serious consequences, including hernias or damage to the pelvic muscles.[iii]
Rachel Shepherd is a physical therapist at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center. She specializes in treating pelvic floor disorders. She said that bowel movements are difficult to talk about. “Not a lot of people want to bring up their constipation,” she said.
Toilet stools are “an easy fix that anyone can add.”
The Caveman Solution to Better Bowel Movements
You should avoid laxatives if you can. They can have side effects such as cramping, diarrhea, and nausea.
A toilet stool helps you use the toilet in a way that is compatible with the evolutionary design of your anatomy.
You simply sit on the toilet and place your feet on the stool. This automatically positions your body for optimal bowel movements.
Toilet stools are widely available in stores and from online retailers. You can get one for around $20 or less. It’s an effective, natural solution for a common problem.
Editor’s Note: Discover natural, non-drug methods to transform your health. Read our monthly journal, Independent Healing. It’s your best source for unbiased, evidence-based medical information. Get all the details HERE.
Related Articles
New Hope for IBS Sufferers
Relieve IBS the Easy Way With This Natural Oil
Hidden Causes of Belly Bloat…and How to Cure It
[i] https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-01/m-osr010919.php
[ii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30346317
[iii] https://health.usnews.com/health-news/health-wellness/articles/2015/04/08/8-myths-about-constipation