Bowel Habit

What is a good bowel habit?

Some people have a bowel movement twice a day and others twice a week. There is no "best" number of daily or weekly bowel movements. It is more important that bowel movements are regular and soft than that they are frequent. You have a good bowel habit so long as the frequency pattern is "normal" for you and the feces are soft enough to pass without straining. Most people experience temporary changes in the bowel habit - diarrhea or constipation - from time to time. Prolonged change in bowel habit, however, may be a warning of more serious problems.

How do bowel habits change as people get older?

Older people are five times more likely to complain of constipation than younger people. Diets tend to change as lifestyles change. You may have less fiber in your food or simply eat less food. You may drink less fluid through the day. Often, too, people get less exercise than they once did. Using laxatives too often can cause constipation. Some medicines, such as antidepressants, antacids, antihistamines, diuretics, and antiparkinsonism drugs can cause constipation. However, a change in bowel habit is a symptom of some of the more serious medical problems you may encounter as you get older, so you should be alert to prolonged changes.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms that may signal a problem include:

• any change in normal bowel habits that lasts for 2 weeks or more
• change in texture of stools (harder, looser)
• change in color of stools (paler, darker)
• bowel movements that float and look fatty or greasy
• bowel movements that are difficult or painful
• stomach cramps, pain, bloating, and no bowel movement for 3 or more days
• losing weight without trying to
• blood in the stools, on your clothes, or on toilet paper.

How can I take care of myself?

• Check your diet. Eat 14 grams of fiber for every 1000 calories everyday. Increase your fiber by eating 2 cups of fruit, 2 1/2 cups of vegetables, and at least 3 servings of whole-grain breads and cereals each day. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
• Reestablish a regular bowel habit. Go to the bathroom about the same time each day, whenever you feel the need. A fiber laxative such as Metamucil is often helpful to help you establish a regular bowel habit. Follow the directions carefully.
• Be sure you get some exercise every day. For example, walk a mile every day. If you have joints that hurt, try exercising in a swimming pool.
• Do not use laxatives on a daily basis. Occasionally, a suppository can help to stimulate the bowel movement.
• Some medicines can cause diarrhea or constipation. Ask your healthcare provider to review your medicines.
• If you have followed these recommendations and you are still concerned about your bowel habit, consult your healthcare provider in case there is a more serious underlying cause.

Developed by Ann Carter, MD, for RelayHealth.
Published by RelayHealth.
© 2009 RelayHealth and/or its affiliates. All Rights Reserved.