Column #106

There are scores of events, things, and activities that are best when they’re regular: the swinging pendulum in the grandfather clock, when we go to bed and get up, meal time, the nutritional characteristics of the food we eat, exercise, good habits, tides, moon and sun, consistency in our work ethics, our principles, the speed of light, total energy in the universe, the symbiotic relationship between animals and plants, gravity, etc.

But what about bowel movements? Should they be regular?

I think it’s fair to say that most people are very concerned about regularity. Not just a little but a lot. If they don’t have a bowel movement each day, they freak out and wonder if it was something they ate that “bound them up.” They gulp down their favorite laxatives and then sit on the pot and push and push and push. It’s too bad they aren’t as concerned about eating for their health as they are about their regularity.

Because regularity concerns are universal, customers often complain to me that they, their spouse, their dog, etc. have stopped being regular after they started following The Real Diet of Man. That can happen, especially if you’re healthy. There are multiple reasons. Grains, beans, and fresh fruits have considerable fiber (waste material) which results in more frequent bowel movements. Eating more meat does just the opposite. It’s 70 percent water and is highly digestible. That results in less waste.

But, but, but . . . aren’t we suppose to be regular?

Decades ago I discussed this issue with a medical specialist. His advice was short and sweet.

●    Don’t worry about regularity. A daily bowel movement is not necessary.
●    Always go when you have the urge. Holding it in can lead to constipation because more water is absorbed which hardens the stool.
●    Never force a bowel movement. It can cause hemorrhoids and, in worse case scenarios, even fainting or a heart attack.
●    Minimize the time spent sitting on the pot because that too can aggravate hemorrhoids and actually contribute to constipation.
●    Pat instead of wipe.

Years later another medical doctor well versed in nutrition told me that the best treatment for our digestive system is to eat properly. His approach is reflected in my e-book, The Real Diet of Man.

The same advice still holds today.

A bowel movement every other day can be normal and healthy. Going two days and skipping one day can be normal and healthy. There is no set rule. And, yes, regularity depends on what you eat.

The basics for healthy “regular irregularity” are to drink sufficient fluids and to eat mostly grass-fed and Omega-3 meats, wild-caught seafood, selected green leafy and flowery vegetables. Eat fruit and nuts sparingly. Completely avoid sugar (including high glycemic foods), grains, most legumes, nightshades, seeds, and vegetable oils. This approach maximizes brain and body function and strengthens the immune system. But it doesn’t create a lot of waste.

In addition to a healthy diet, other components for a healthy life include regular and sufficient sleep, moderate daily exercise, minimizing stress, and varying the daily regimen.

To your health.

Ted Slanker

Ted Slanker has been reporting on the fundamentals of nutritional research in publications, television and radio appearances, and at conferences since 1999. He condenses complex studies into the basics required for health and well-being. His eBook, The Real Diet of Man, is available online.

Don’t miss these links for additional reading:

The World’s Most Successful People Have This Invisible-Skill in Common by Brad Costanzo

Bowel Movements: What’s Considered Normal? By Beth W. Orenstein

What is Digestibility and Why Does It Matter?

The Poop on Pooping: 5 Misconceptions Explained by Christopher Wanjek in Live Science

How Bad Is It to Hold in Your Poop?

Can You Die By Pooping? By Christa Sgobba for Men’s Health

Why You Shouldn’t Sit On the Toilet Longer Than 15 Minutes