Once upon a time, TV ads made it seem necessary to be "regular," because there were so many products for "irregularity." But even if you have bowel movements at the same frequency over time, what is the proper frequency? Ads don't tell us, but science is working on it.
People vary widely in how often they poop, and that may have some effect on our health. A new study published in the journal Cell tracked nearly 4,000 people to compare the frequency of their bowel movements and their health. The frequency ranged from one to two poops a week to diarrhea. The sweet spot for optimum health turns out to be one or two poops a day.
So what if don't fit into that sweet spot? You might try more fiber, more water, and regular exercise. Extreme variations can indicate health problems, or even cause health problems. Read what those are and how your pooping schedule can change your body chemistry at BBC Science Focus.
(Image credit: Lee Coursey)
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