Why ‘holding on’ is bad for your health

Australians’ aversion to public restrooms is increasing the incidence of serious health conditions as a result of irregular bowel habits and not going to the toilet, according to The Movicol Bathroom Behaviour Report.

In the report, it was revealed 90 per cent of Aussies experience constipation at some point in their lifetime. But alarmingly, nearly three quarters (73 per cent) said they would rather ‘hold on’ than use a public toilet, increasing the risk of constipation, triggering conditions such as haemorrhoids, anal tears and rectal prolapses, as a result of excessive pushing later on.

According to the online quiz ‘What does your poo say about you’ (dontholdon.com.au) many people shy away from using public restrooms for a number of reasons including a lack of privacy, embarrassment and cleanliness.

Going to the toilet when the urge arises is the best way to reduce your risk of constipation, in addition to incorporating lifestyle measures such as a high fibre diet, plenty of water and regular exercise, as well as over-the-counter medication, if required, for more serious constipation, the report revealed.

Source: bodyandSoul