You’re probably expecting this post to be about self esteem or ego. Pardon me. It’s about poop.
Actually constipation, the most common digestive complaint. Not the sexiest subject but satisfying if you have one (a poop, that is), given 16 percent of individuals & 33% of those over the age of 60 suffer chronic constipation. Constipation binds us.
So……drink enough water based fluids about 6-8 cups/day. Stools need water to move. So do you. Get moving. Walk every day briskly for at least 30 minutes.
Eat healthy whole foods that contain fibre. Try “Get Up and Go Cookies” 1-2 per day. http://www.cnca.ca/pdf/Get%20Up%20and%20Go%20Cookies.pdf
Purchase a “squatty potty.” https://www.squattypotty.com
At the same time each morning, have cereal such as 1/3 of a cup of All Bran Buds or Fibre 1 & a hot drink like coffee or hot water.
If your stools are muddy in consistency, you may need more soluble fibre in your diet. Oats, peas, beans, apples, citrus fruits, carrots, barley and psyllium are a few foods that contain soluble fibre.
30 minutes later sit on your throne & lean forward 35 degrees with your feet on your “squatty potty” so your knees are above your hips. Relax.
This position takes advantage of your gastro-colic reflex.
Your vagus nerve is stimulated, your heart rate & Blood pressure are lowered & you get that satisfying & pleasurable sensation especially after a big one. So Poop away.
But size doesn’t matter with poop, unless it’s changed or you see red. In that case, see your doctor.