What is a Normal Bowel Movement?

One common complaint among people suffering from gastrointestinal problems is constipation. Certainly, constipation is a growing problem for people of all ages. Generally, this is due to unhealthy elements of our modern lifestyle, such as not getting enough exercise and poor nutrition. Many people complain about going for a day or longer without a healthy bowel movement. This raises an important question . . . how often should a healthy person move their bowels?

What is a Normal?

Many healthcare professionals think that the majority of people that complain about constipation have mistaken expectations about regular bowel movements. Generally, they assume that it’s normal to have a bowel movement daily. If they miss a day or two, they panic and complain to a doctor. The fact is that people differ and the frequency of bowel movements varies. One individual might have two or three bowel movements daily and this is perfectly normal, while another individual might only have two or three bowel movements a week.
Because of this, it is not constructive to compare your bowel movements to other individuals. Instead, you must find the frequency that works and is proper for you.

What Causes Constipation?

The reason for constipation depends on the lifestyle of the individual, their age, and other factors. Statistics show that constipation is prevalent among people who don’t get enough fiber in their diets. In addition, living a sedentary lifestyle, taking certain medications, or not drinking enough water leads to constipation. It is important to note that constipation might also signal a more serious medical condition. Consult a gastroenterologist if you feel that something has changed related to your bowel movements or if you have constipation.

Ways to Increase Bowel Movements

The fact is that certain foods contribute to constipation, including highly processed foods, creams, ice creams, and meat products. Reduce the amount of these foods in your diet to promote healthy bowel movements. It is also important to eat more fiber, such as fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, and beans. Also, increase your daily consumption of liquids, including water, herbal tea, and fruit juices. If fruit juice is too sweet for you or if you are trying to reduce your sugar consumption then mix water into your fruit juice.