**Why Your Physician Wants You to Discuss Your Bowel Movements — And It Might Save Your Life**

When it comes to bettering health outcomes, there’s a subject matter that many find uncomfortable to address: bowel health. However, as noted by colorectal surgeon Dr. Carmen Fong, talking candidly about your bowel movements can greatly influence your overall health—and could even be life-saving. Through her appearances on podcasts like *The Podcast by KevinMD* and her book *Constipation Nation: What to Know When You Can’t Go*, Dr. Fong strives to normalize these discussions while educating the public on the vital significance of bowel health.

### Shattering the Taboos Surrounding Bowel Health

Cultural norms and societal stigmas often deter conversations regarding bowel movements. Such obstacles can hinder patients from seeking timely medical attention or recognizing when something might be amiss. “It’s just poop,” Dr. Fong reminisces about her grandmother’s words—a lesson that contributed to her own ease with the subject and her drive to increase awareness.

In contrast to other healthcare facets, bowel health is frequently neglected, often perceived as embarrassing or irrelevant to general wellness initiatives. Many individuals feel reluctant to confess issues like constipation, hemorrhoids, or irregular bowel patterns, let alone discuss these matters during a medical appointment. Yet, overlooking these indicators can lead to chronic discomfort, reduced quality of life, or, in some instances, may indicate serious health problems such as colorectal cancer.

Dr. Fong stresses the importance of discussing bowel movements more freely. She explains that normalizing these dialogues not only diminishes stigma but also fosters preventive health tactics and early intervention for potentially life-threatening conditions.

—

### Frequent Concerns and Misunderstandings

Dr. Fong’s efforts and her book address the numerous challenges individuals encounter regarding bowel health. From prevalent issues to cultural factors affecting our ability to voice discomfort, she seeks to clarify this important aspect of our bodies.

Here are several common bowel health concerns that Dr. Fong frequently highlights:

1. **Constipation**
– Many individuals fail to consume adequate fiber or water, both essential for regular bowel functions. Dr. Fong suggests aiming for **25-35 grams of fiber each day**, with a balance of soluble (e.g., the interior of an apple) and insoluble fiber (e.g., the skin of an apple). Additionally, maintaining hydration with at least **2-3 liters of water** daily is vital to avoid fiber becoming compacted “concrete” in your intestine.

2. **Hemorrhoids**
– People often misinterpret hemorrhoids as fissures or other anal disorders. Although hemorrhoids may cause itching, bleeding, or prolapse, pain is typically attributed to issues like anal fissures or thrombosed external hemorrhoids. Treatment involves increasing fiber intake, using sitz baths, and applying hydrocortisone creams.

3. **Overwiping and Anal Itching**
– Aggressive or excessive wiping can lead to irritation. Frequent use of medicated wipes may exacerbate discomfort. Simple solutions such as using water or minimally chemical-laden wipes can help keep the area healthy.

4. **Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)**
– Individuals with IBS often endure alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea. She notes that **fiber supplements** and **probiotics**, along with keeping stress levels in check, can assist in managing symptoms and supporting a healthier gut microbiome.

5. **Cultural Influences and Gender Factors**
– Women, especially, grapple with societal expectations to steer clear of bowel health discussions, fueled by entrenched taboos. Whether it’s hurrying through a morning bowel movement before work or avoiding public restrooms at all costs, these practices can worsen bowel health concerns over time.

—

### Fiber, Water, Movement: The “Sacred Trinity” of Bowel Health

Dr. Fong underscores three essential pillars of bowel health:

1. **Fiber**
– Whether derived from natural sources like fruits and vegetables or supplements like Metamucil, fiber is crucial for healthy digestion. Dr. Fong recommends incorporating a combination of both soluble and insoluble fiber to achieve softer, bulkier stools.

2. **Water**
– Staying hydrated is equally vital as consuming fiber. Inadequate water intake can render fiber ineffective in preventing constipation.

3. **Activity**
– Engaging in moderate physical activity, such as 30 minutes of exercise three times per week, promotes healthy digestion. However, excessive exercise can lead to dehydration or stress, negatively affecting bowel function.

—

### Probiotics and New Solutions

Dr. Fong shares her thoughts on probiotics, noting that while not all strains are alike, types like *Lactobacillus* and *Bifidobacterium* can effectively enhance bowel regularity. She also highlights emerging advancements in probiotics, including custom formulations designed to withstand digestion and better target the gut.

—

### Pregnancy and Constipation

Constipation is particularly prevalent among pregnant women due to hormonal shifts, altered