A doctor has revealed the three most dangerous toilet habits – and says you should set a five-minute timer when you go.
Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist from California, shares gut health tips with his 1.3m Instagram followers (@doctor.sethi).
He’s previously warned against eating grapes and bananas, instead recommending pomegranates and oranges.
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Now, in a clip that’s racked up 485,000 views and more than 8,800 likes, he shared his top tips for toilet time – and one may leave you baffled, as reported by What’s The Jam.
His first warning is simple: don’t push.
He says straining can lead to haemorrhoids, anal fissures and even rectal prolapse.
Instead, focus on deep breathing rather than forcing it.
Second: don’t scroll on your phone.
Dr Sethi, from California, US, explained: “Extra sitting time increases pressure on the rectal veins – which means higher risk of haemorrhoids.
“So keep it to less than five minutes.”
And third: don’t ignore the urge.
He said: “Holding it in won’t help.
“It is equal to stool getting harder and constipation getting worse.
“So train your gut to say go when it says go.”
The post also told followers: “You’ve been pooping wrong all your life.
“In this video, Dr Sethi, a Harvard and Stanford-trained gastroenterologist, breaks down the science-backed right way to poop.
“He explains why scrolling on your phone during number two puts extra strain on your anus, increasing the risk of haemorrhoids, anal fissures, and even rectal prolapse.”
Followers were quick to react.
Obinna joked: “I have successfully shared it with myself… thank you.”
Neeshu said: “Me watching this reel in washroom.”
Azra added: “Thank u. Such helpful advice.” [sic]
Feyi wrote: “Thank you so much for this information Doctor.”
Vatsala commented: “As soon as wake up..do deep breathings for five to ten min also helps..can give it a try.” [sic]
And Kihire admitted: “I scrolled to this vid while in the loo,” [sic], followed by laughing emojis.
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