Most of us use the toilet without giving it much thought, and because of that, we often pick up some unhealthy and unhygienic habits along the way. These habits can negatively impact your body in various ways. Here are some tips to help you develop better toilet habits.
Many people have the habit of going to the toilet more often than needed, even when their bladder isn’t full or there’s no real urge. This behavior trains the bladder to signal unnecessarily, which can lead to problems over time. It’s important to only visit the bathroom when your bladder is actually full.
Rushing through your toilet time isn’t good for your body either. Take sufficient time when urinating or having a bowel movement. Trying to force things by putting too much pressure on the pelvic area can weaken muscles and potentially lead to incontinence. Being in a rush might also mean you don’t clean yourself properly, which is both unhygienic and harmful. Additionally, make sure to flush thoroughly to avoid leftover waste that could spread germs.
For those who experience frequent urination with only small amounts each time, bladder retraining can be helpful. This involves holding off the urge to urinate for increasingly longer periods. Over time, this practice can allow you to go longer stretches without needing to visit the toilet so frequently.
To prevent constipation, ensure you drink plenty of water and eat a fiber-rich diet. Only go to the bathroom when you genuinely feel the need to have a bowel movement. If constipation becomes an issue, consult your doctor and make appropriate dietary adjustments to avoid future occurrences.
Using the correct posture on the toilet is surprisingly important. Specialists often advise placing a stool under your feet while passing a bowel movement. This creates a squatting position, which can make the process easier and more comfortable.
Another habit to break is bringing your phone into the bathroom—a common practice these days. This exposes your phone to germs and bacteria, making it a source of contamination. It also distracts you from what’s happening around you. Spending extra time in the bathroom unnecessarily can inconvenience others waiting to use it. Plus, there’s always the risk of your phone falling onto unsanitary surfaces. To avoid these issues, it’s best to leave your phone outside the bathroom.
Finally, washing your hands properly after using the toilet is essential for keeping yourself safe from germs, viruses, and infections. Skipping this step can not only harm you but also spread illness to others. Make sure to thoroughly wash or sanitize your hands every time you use the bathroom to eliminate bacteria.
Developing good toilet habits is especially crucial in times like the COVID-19 pandemic when protecting ourselves from germs is more important than ever. Following these practices can help you maintain better hygiene and overall health in the long run.