Spending too much time on the toilet? Experts warn of health risks

Using the toilet is a daily necessity, but many people spend more time there than needed, often due to using phones or laptops. While a typical toilet visit should last about three to five minutes, this habit can extend it to 15 minutes or more, which experts say can be harmful.

According to a report by CNN, specialists warn that prolonged sitting on the toilet may increase the risk of health issues like hemorrhoids and weakened pelvic muscles. Dr. Lai Zhu, a colorectal surgeon at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, explains that sitting too long puts pressure on the buttocks and pelvic area, affecting blood circulation. The oval shape of the toilet seat can exacerbate this pressure, leading to swollen veins and a higher risk of hemorrhoids.

Dr. Farah Monzur, an assistant professor and director at the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center in New York’s Stony Brook Medicine, advises spending only 5 to 10 minutes on the toilet. Prolonged sitting may also increase the risk of rectal prolapse, a condition where part of the large intestine slips out of the anus due to excessive pressure.

In some cases, the need to spend more time on the toilet could be a sign of underlying health problems, such as colon cancer. Recent reports from the American Cancer Society indicate a rise in colorectal cancer cases among people under 55 since the mid-1990s. The organization predicts 106,590 new cases of colon cancer and 46,220 cases of rectal cancer this year.

To avoid these risks, it’s important to stay hydrated and consume a diet rich in fiber. The National Academy of Medicine recommends drinking 2.7 to 3.7 liters of water daily, while the U.S. Department of Agriculture advises 14 grams of fiber per 1,000 calories. This helps soften stools and reduces the need to strain during bowel movements.

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