Your body has different ways to indicate an upset stomach. One such way is the kind of bowel movements you have. According to Dr Ankur Jain, Senior Consultant-Gastroenterology, Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, New Delhi, the appearance, colour, consistency, and frequency of bowel movements can provide valuable insights into digestive function. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth editorial team, Dr Jain provides further details.
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How Your Bowel Movement Helps You Interpret Your Gut Health
“Bowel movements serve as a window into the digestive system, reflecting aspects such as frequency, consistency, colour, and any associated symptoms,” said Dr Jain, adding, “Changes in bowel habits can indicate various gastrointestinal conditions, such as constipation, diarrhoea, or inflammatory bowel disease.” According to him, evaluating stool characteristics, alongside other clinical factors, aids in diagnosing and managing gastrointestinal disorders.
What Your Stool Type Reveals
Dr Jain said, “Normal stool should be well-formed, medium brown, and easy to pass. Any deviations from this can indicate underlying gastrointestinal issues such as infections, inflammation, malabsorption, or even certain cancers.”
That said, it is important to monitor changes in stool patterns and seek medical attention if there are persistent abnormalities. As per the doctor, early detection can assist in providing timely treatment while ensuring optimal gut health and overall well-being.
To understand different stool types, Dr Jain mentions the Bristol Stool Scale, which categorises stools into seven types. This ranges from hard lumps (Type 1) to watery consistency (Type 7). “Healthy bowel movements typically fall within Type 3 to Type 4, indicating normal transit time and adequate hydration.” “Anything apart from these types may signify conditions, such as constipation, diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, or malabsorption,” he added.
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How To Maintain Good Gut Health
Maintaining gut health is crucial for overall well-being. For this, one must follow:
Balanced diet
Consuming a diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins promotes a healthy gut. These foods nourish beneficial gut bacteria and support regular bowel movements.
Hydration
Drinking an adequate amount of water is essential for maintaining optimal gut function and preventing constipation.
Probiotics and prebiotics
Incorporating probiotic-rich foods (like yoghurt) and prebiotic foods (like bananas, onions, and garlic) can help promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
Regular exercise
Physical activity aids in maintaining a healthy gut by promoting regular bowel movements and enhancing gut motility.
Stress management
Chronic stress can disrupt gut function. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as exercise, meditation, and adequate sleep supports gut health. Signs of a healthy gut include regular bowel movements, well-formed stools, minimal bloating or gas, and comfortable digestion. On the other hand, an unhealthy gut may manifest as persistent digestive symptoms like chronic diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, excessive gas, abdominal pain, or irregular bowel movements.
Conclusion
While your bowel movements should not be the only determinator of your gut health, you must pay attention to it. Any changes in the pattern must be addressed and consulted with a doctor. Remember to eat fibre-rich foods and drink plenty of water for a healthy digestive system.