Let’s be real—many of us are guilty of spending a little extra time on the toilet, whether it’s to scroll through our phones, read a magazine, or just take a break from the daily grind. But according to medical experts, lingering on the toilet seat can do more harm than good. Spending more than 10 minutes on the toilet is not only unnecessary but can actually lead to some uncomfortable and long-term health issues. Let’s break down why this seemingly innocent habit can be more dangerous than you might think.
The Health Risks of Sitting Too Long on the Toilet
It may seem like the toilet is just another seat in your home, but its design can actually put you in a position that’s problematic for your body. Prolonged sitting on the toilet can lead to issues like hemorrhoids and swollen veins in the anal area. Gastroenterologist Dr. Roshini Raj from NYU Langone warns that these problems are directly related to how our bodies are positioned on the toilet seat.
The toilet’s design forces your anorectal area to hang lower than the rest of your body, meaning gravity is pulling down on this area, putting extra pressure on veins. So while you’re sitting there scrolling, you’re actually stressing out your body in ways you might not have considered.
Hemorrhoids and Anal Vein Pressure: A Dangerous Combination
When you sit on the toilet for an extended period, your anal veins are under pressure, which can cause hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that develop around the anus, and they can be incredibly painful. They may bleed, itch, and make bowel movements uncomfortable.
According to Dr. Raj, even if you’re not actively straining or pushing, just the simple act of sitting on the toilet applies pressure to the area. Over time, this repeated pressure can worsen existing hemorrhoids or lead to the development of new ones. Unfortunately, once you have hemorrhoids, they can be persistent, often requiring treatment and lifestyle changes to keep them under control.
The Gravity of the Situation: Why Toilet Position Matters
Modern toilets are designed for convenience, but they’re not necessarily the best for our bodies. The position your body is in when sitting on the toilet seat is different from how you sit on a regular chair. When you sit down, your thighs support most of your body weight, but your anorectal area still hangs lower, placing additional gravitational pressure on the anal veins.
This position may not seem significant if you’re only sitting for a minute or two, but the longer you stay, the more strain you put on this area. The repeated impact of this gravity-driven pressure, day after day, can compound over time, leading to problems you could otherwise avoid by limiting your bathroom breaks.
The Hygiene Hazards of Using Your Phone on the Toilet
Another common bathroom habit is taking your phone to the toilet with you. A NordVPN study found that around 65% of adults bring their phones into the bathroom, with younger generations being the biggest culprits. While it may be tempting to scroll through social media or catch up on messages, using your phone on the toilet introduces another set of concerns.
Dr. Raj points out that poor hygiene practices in the bathroom can lead to food poisoning and other illnesses. When you touch your phone in the bathroom, bacteria from the toilet can transfer to your device. And if you don’t clean your phone regularly, you’re carrying that bacteria around with you—potentially transferring it to your food, face, and other surfaces.
Why Taking a Break from Your Phone in the Bathroom Is a Good Idea
To minimize the risks associated with phone usage in the bathroom, consider leaving your phone outside when nature calls. The habit of using your phone on the toilet not only leads you to linger longer but also makes it easy to overlook hygiene practices. Imagine touching a screen covered in bathroom bacteria and then eating a snack or touching your face—that’s a recipe for illness that’s easy to avoid.
Plus, taking a break from your phone for a few minutes can actually be good for your mental health. Use the time instead to focus on your surroundings, or practice deep breathing exercises, which can help with relaxation and digestion.
How Long Should You Really Spend on the Toilet?
Ideally, you should aim to spend no more than 10 minutes on the toilet, and less is even better. Your bathroom routine should be quick and efficient. If you find that you’re regularly spending more time than this, it may indicate that you need to adjust your diet or fluid intake to improve digestion and avoid constipation.
If you struggle with constipation, consider increasing your fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day. Additionally, engaging in regular physical activity can help keep your digestive system moving smoothly, reducing the time you need to spend on the toilet.
Tips for a Healthier Bathroom Routine
Adopting a healthier bathroom routine can make a big difference in your overall health and well-being. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Limit Your Time: Aim to spend no more than 10 minutes on the toilet. If you’re taking longer, it could signal that you need to make some dietary changes to improve digestion.
- Leave the Phone Outside: Reduce the temptation to linger by leaving your phone outside the bathroom. You’ll improve your hygiene practices and avoid unnecessary risks.
- Adopt a Regular Schedule: Try to develop a consistent bathroom routine. Many people find it helpful to go at the same time each day, as this can help regulate your digestive system.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Clean your phone frequently if you bring it into the bathroom, and always wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet. Regular cleaning habits can go a long way in preventing the spread of germs.
- Use a Footstool: To encourage a better posture while on the toilet, consider using a footstool. Elevating your feet can help create a more natural squat position, which reduces the strain on your body.
Conclusion: It’s Time to Rethink Your Toilet Habits
Spending too much time on the toilet may seem harmless, but it can have lasting effects on your health. From increasing your risk of hemorrhoids to exposing you to bacteria-laden surfaces, lingering in the bathroom is a habit worth breaking. By limiting your time to under 10 minutes, skipping the phone, and adopting a more mindful approach to your bathroom routine, you’ll reduce unnecessary health risks and improve your overall hygiene.
The next time you’re tempted to bring your phone along or linger a bit longer, remember that quick and efficient is the way to go. A healthier bathroom routine can make a significant difference, leaving you feeling better and more energized—so make these simple changes and feel the benefits for yourself!
