A June survey published by Health magazine found that 50% of millennials and Gen Z spend at least 6 minutes in the bathroom, significantly longer than previous generations. According to Dr. Amit Ahuja, head of Gastroenterology at Cylinder Medical Group, this “taking root” in the restroom is a cause for concern.
Dr. Jim Cox of Texas Christian University suggests 5 minutes is a reasonable limit for a bathroom visit. If unfinished, it's best to get up and try again later. Spending more than 10 minutes or excessive straining may indicate an underlying issue.
Dr. Farah Monzur, associate professor of medicine and director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center at Stony Brook Medicine in New York, advises against spending more than 5-10 minutes on the toilet. Gravity pulls down the lower body, while the oval shape of the toilet seat presses on the buttocks, keeping the rectum low. This causes blood to pool but hinders its return to the heart. Consequently, blood vessels around the anus and rectum can become distended, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.
Straining can also increase pressure, further contributing to hemorrhoid development. Those who scroll through their phones on the toilet often lose track of time.
Experts identify four reasons why young people spend extended periods in the bathroom:
Technology: Phones are almost always bathroom companions. Engrossed in scrolling not only extends bathroom time but also increases the risk of bacterial contamination from the screen.
Digestive issues: Constipation is common among young people, partly due to diets low in fiber and high in processed foods. Some also suffer from irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, which slows bowel movements.
Mental health: Stress, anxiety, or psychological disorders can directly impact bowel movements. The brain-gut connection is often overlooked, but stress can worsen constipation.
Modern lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle with prolonged sitting contributes to a less efficient digestive system.
Extended bathroom breaks affect more than just digestion. For those with hemorrhoids, prolonged sitting can trigger flare-ups. Additionally, it can cause leg numbness, back pain, and even nerve compression.
Experts recommend adequate fiber intake (25g daily for women, 38g for men) and plenty of water to aid bowel movements. Never suppress the urge to go. For those with lengthy bathroom habits, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or short walks instead of phone use.
If you notice significant changes in your bathroom habits, prolonged or unusual duration, accompanied by abdominal pain, bleeding, or weight loss, seek medical attention to rule out serious conditions.
Bao Nhien (According to Health)
