For many of us, the bathroom is a place of privacy, a little retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. But spending 30 minutes to an hour there might not just be about enjoying solitude. Prolonged time spent on the toilet could be a sign of underlying health issues, including severe conditions like colon cancer. Let’s discuss why lingering in the bathroom longer than necessary isn’t something you should overlook.
A 2022 study in The Lancet dropped a bombshell. South Korea reported the highest colon cancer rates among young people in 42 surveyed countries, with 12.9 cases per 100,000 individuals.
According to the Korean Society of Gastroenterology, the average person spends about 5.2 minutes on the toilet. If you frequently exceed this timeframe, mainly due to constipation, it’s worth paying closer attention. Constipation isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s also a potential warning sign of colon cancer.
Dr. Lance Uradomo, a gastrointestinal expert at City of Hope in California, explained that a tumor in the colon can obstruct the passage of stool, leading to constipation. He strongly advises that if any blood is observed in the stool, one should seek medical attention immediately.
Colon cancer often presents with noticeable warning signs. Watch out for symptoms such as feeling like you never quite finished your business, pencil-thin poops, tummy troubles, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, persistent indigestion, and fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest.
If you’re battling constipation without colon cancer symptoms, a few lifestyle adjustments may help. Focus on a balanced diet and hydration. Avoid greasy, high-fat animal products and snacks that clog your system.
To improve bowel movements, incorporate nature’s laxatives: veggies and fruits. Cucumbers, cabbage, broccoli, lettuce, burdock, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, taro, and lotus root are excellent choices. Add seaweed superstars like kelp and nori, fiber-rich grains like barley and brown rice, and legume legends like soybeans and miso. These nutrient-dense options support healthy digestion and promote regularity.
Engaging in some exercise goes a long way in keeping things moving down there. Even a quick stroll can promote better bowel movements.
However, excessive time on the toilet isn’t just unproductive—it poses health risks. Dr. Moon Jin Kim from Incheon St. Mary’s Hospital warns that prolonged toilet sessions can disrupt proper circulation in the rectal area, increasing the likelihood of developing hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids can come in two types: internal (painless but might leave you feeling unfinished and seeing red) and external. Additionally, extended sitting can weaken your pelvic floor muscles, potentially leading to rectal prolapse.
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