Study: Here’s How Often You Should Go

Researchers in Seattle analyzed 1,400 healthy adults and their gut microbes, and found a link between gut health and “regularity” in the bathroom. The “Goldilocks zone” is one to two poops per day. Adults who “went” this often had beneficial amounts of bacteria in their guts. Those who suffered from diarrhea or constipation showed higher levels of less beneficial bacteria. Constipation was even linked to compounds that could harm kidneys. “This study shows how bowel movement frequency can influence all body systems, and how aberrant bowel movement frequency may be an important risk factor in the development of chronic diseases,” Dr. Sean Gibbons said. A fiber-rich diet, hydration, and exercise can help promote regularity. (Study Finds)