There are two types of people when it comes to bowel movements: The first type is time-bound. They always do their business at the same time, like a Swiss watch. It might be after waking up or after dinner – the point is, only then, and that’s it.
For the other type, the place is much more important. For them, it doesn’t matter when, but where. And let’s admit, for most of them, this is usually at home. The shared office bathroom, a friend’s spotless bathroom, or a tiny restaurant stall is out of the question.
I was curious if there was any scientific basis to this theory, so I turned to experts. As it turned out, pooping is a much more personal matter than we think – says Dr. Benjamin Levy, gastroenterologist and clinical instructor at the University of Chicago.
You might already know exactly which type you are. Of course, it’s also possible to identify with both – for example, only at home and only after breakfast. Or maybe neither applies to you, and you operate on absolute chaos: if it’s 4 p.m. and you’re in a store, you have to go then too.
1. Those for Whom Time Is More Important
If you belong to this category, you probably have a well-established time window – after waking up in the morning or after lunch. Your body is set for this, and usually, there is no "urge" outside of this.
"This is completely normal, as our digestive system really likes to operate on a routine."
For example, during sleep, the colon switches to "rest mode," but as you wake up, movement starts, and morning coffee just helps the whole process.
The only problem is that if you miss this time window, things can easily "get stuck" – because not only your body but also your brain learns this habit, making it hard to "tune in" from outside.
What to Do If You Miss the Time?
- Drink something warm and caffeinated. Coffee helps muscle movement in the intestines, but even plain warm water or tea can kickstart digestion.
- Eat fiber-rich foods: Prunes, kiwi, banana, almonds – these help make things easier.
- Drink plenty of water: Stool needs water, otherwise it dries out, hardens, and becomes harder to pass.
- Move a little: A walk, light yoga, or a quick jog also stimulates bowel movement.
2. Those for Whom Place Is More Important
You can only poop calmly if everything is perfect: you are at home, alone, everything is clean, and no one hears what’s happening. In a mall bathroom, you definitely can’t do your business calmly.
"This is often psychological. Many people feel anxious about being heard or about others knowing what they’re doing inside. For others, cleanliness is the main fear: they don’t feel safe in unfamiliar places, so their body simply blocks."
How to Release Stress?
- Listen to music. It’s easier to block out the outside world with headphones, and it also helps you relax.
- Choose your toilet wisely. If you’re in an office, go to another floor or pick the stall furthest away.
- Have an "emergency kit" with you. Disinfectant wipes, seat covers, air freshener spray – these can help you feel more comfortable.
Everyone poops differently – and that’s completely normal. Your habit is not embarrassing, and you don’t need to feel awkward about it. And although the place vs. time debate might seem funny at first, maybe these casual conversations help us finally talk more normally about our bodies and their natural processes.
