Stop doing this every morning: It’s causing constipation
Habit harming your gut revealed (photo: Freepik)
Rushing in the morning and doing everything on the go can negatively affect gut function. Such a pace disrupts digestion and increases the risk of constipation, according to Eating Well.
Why you shouldn’t rush in the morning
Gastroenterologist and medical doctor Wendy Lebrett said that the main advice for those who want regular bowel movements is not to rush in the morning.
“I think a lot of us have these morning routines where we wake up and then within 15 minutes, we're like running out of the door. It’s important to get in that rest and digest and give yourself time to poop. Waking up a little bit earlier can be helpful,” the expert explained.
Lack of time can lead to constipation. Instead of sleeping longer, it’s better to go to bed earlier and add these healthy habits to your morning routine.
After waking up, it’s useful to take about five deep belly breaths while still in bed. This helps relax the pelvic floor, activate the intestines, and kickstart digestion.
A 5–10-minute morning routine, such as belly breathing, stretching, or a quick walk, can significantly improve regularity compared to just getting out of bed and heading to work.
Another way to promote regular morning bowel movements is to include a morning drink in your routine. Coffee can help, but don’t rely on it exclusively. Warm water in the morning is an effective way to awaken the digestive system.
Other tips for gut health
A fiber-rich breakfast is key to a healthy gut.
Good morning, choices include:
- Oatmeal
- Chia or flax seeds
- Fruits (apples, berries)
- Whole-grain bread
Target: 5–10 g of fiber in the morning.
Probiotics or fermented foods support the microbiome. Morning options include unsweetened yogurt, kefir, or fermented vegetables. This is especially important after antibiotics or when experiencing bloating.
A calm start to the day
Stress affects gut function. Practice 2–3 minutes of deep breathing and avoid rushing through breakfast.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.