Unlocking Your Colon: The Surprising Link Between Good Posture and Proper Bowel Movements

We often underestimate the impact of our posture on various aspects of our health. From reducing back pain to improving digestion, maintaining good posture has numerous benefits. There is definitely a posture for pooping that helps us have the best and smoothest bowel movements….aka going number two or pooping.

At a company Christmas party years ago Dr. J received the squatty potty and it made such a difference in our daughter’s regularity that we can’t stop recommending it to patients.  We use it too!  There are several versions but this one’s our favorite: Click here for Squatty Potty

So, let's delve into the science behind this surprising link and understand how unlocking your colon through good posture can lead to a healthier digestive system.

Here’s the quick physiology of how your colon, which is your large intestine, works. It absorbs water and electrolytes from the undigested food passing through it. As the waste material moves through the colon, it gradually forms feces. The final stage of digestion involves the expulsion of these feces through the rectum and out of the body during a bowel movement.

How Posture Affects Bowel Movements:

Subluxations cause pressure on the nerves that travel to all the organs of your body.  When you have subluxations in your spine at the lower thoracic, lumbar, or even sacral area this can cause constipation.

• Alignment Matters: When we slouch or hunch over while sitting or standing, it messes up the natural alignment of our body, and even affects our organs, including the colon. This can put unnecessary pressure on our abdomen and make it harder for waste to move smoothly through the colon.
• Preventing Constipation: Good posture helps keep our abdominal muscles in good shape. When these muscles are strong and working properly, they can assist in the elimination process, reducing the chances of constipation.
• Straightening the Pathway: Optimal posture keeps the rectum and anus in a straight line, which makes it easier for stool to pass during bowel movements. On the other hand, poor posture can create angles and kinks in the digestive pathway, making it more difficult for feces to pass through smoothly.

Tips for Unlocking Your Colon with Good Posture:

• Sit up Straight: Whether you're at your desk or on the couch, practice sitting up straight with your shoulders back. Keep your feet flat on the floor and maintain a neutral spine position.
• Mind Your Position on the Toilet: When using the restroom, ensure your feet are planted firmly on the ground. Consider using a footstool to elevate your feet slightly. This position, often referred to as the "squatting position," aligns the rectum more favorably for bowel movements.
• Stay Active: Regular exercise can strengthen your core muscles and promote better posture. Activities like yoga, Pilates, or even simple stretches can make a significant difference.

Remember, small changes in your daily habits can have a big impact on your overall well-being. So many of our patients…and even babies feel better with less bloat and constipation when their spines are aligned, and they are subluxation free.  So, make a conscious effort to get adjusted, sit up straight, stay active, and be mindful of your body's alignment. Your colon will thank you for it, and you'll enjoy a more comfortable and satisfying bathroom experience.

By Dr. Leah Meadows + Energize Team