You’ve probably seen toilet foot stools advertised, but what’s the real story behind these simple bathroom additions? The idea of squatting to improve bowel movements may sound unusual, but it's rooted in science. So, do toilet foot stools work?
The simple answer is... Yes, they do! Squatting, or using a toilet stool to replicate the squat position, is the most natural and effective way to manage bowel movements. And, it's gentler on your body as well. By placing your feet on a stool like PROPPR while sitting on a western pedestal toilet, you change the angle of your sigmoid colon from an ‘S’ shape to a straighter downward sloping line, facilitating easier waste release.
In this article, we'll explore how to use a toilet foot stool correctly and the benefits of incorporating one into your routine.
Do Toilet Stools Work?
Toilet stools are more than just a bathroom accessory; they're a solution to one of the most common health issues: strained and uncomfortable bowel movements. By elevating your feet and changing your sitting angle, these foot stools create a natural squatting position that helps in aligning your intestines and transforming the sigmoid colon from an ‘S’ shape to a straighter line. This adjustment promotes smoother, quicker eliminations. It also alleviates discomfort and enhances overall colon health, making each bathroom visit a more pleasant experience.
Find Your Perfect PROPPR in Australia & the US Today!
Take your bathroom experience to the next level with our exclusive range of PROPPR toilet foot stools, designed to fit every style and need right here in Australia & the US. Whether you’re looking for the sleek finish of our Acer collection or the warm, natural feel of our Timber collection, we have the perfect fit for your bathroom's size and aesthetic. Our toilet foot stools ensure both functionality and style.
The Science Behind Toilet Stools
The sigmoid colon is an essential part of our digestive tract and plays a crucial role in the final stages of digestion. It is where the waste material gets ready for elimination. The shape and position of this section of the colon can greatly influence the ease and effectiveness of bowel movements. Under normal conditions, the sigmoid colon is slightly kinked into an ‘S’ position, which can hinder the smooth passage of stool.
Using a toilet stool alters the posture of your lower body, mimicking a natural squatting position by elevating your feet. This change in position straightens the kink at the junction between the rectum and colon, allowing for a smoother, faster and more complete elimination process. Scientific research supports that this posture can help prevent common bowel disorders and improve overall digestive health.
Benefits of Using a Toilet Foot Stool
Unlike any other bathroom gadget or accessory, toilet stools are supported by both ergonomic principles and gastroenterological research. Here’s how adding one into your routine can make a significant difference:
Ease of Use
Toilet stools are easy to use. Once you are seated on your loo, simply place the stool in front of your toilet, ensuring it is positioned comfortably within reach. While seated, rest your feet on the stool to elevate them, naturally adjusting your body into a squatting-like position. This slight elevation improves your posture and makes bowel movements easier and more efficient.
Improved Posture
Traditional sitting positions on standard western pedestal toilets often hinder effective elimination by causing a bend in your colon. A toilet stool aligns your posture by elevating your knees, straightening the colon for a more natural and effortless elimination process.
Reduced Strain
Regular straining during bowel movements can lead to discomfort and health issues like haemorrhoids. Using a toilet stool helps position your body in a way that reduces strain and pressure on the rectum, mitigating these risks and promoting a more comfortable bathroom experience.
Enhanced Health Benefits
Toilet stools promote quicker, more complete bowel movements, which is crucial for maintaining good colon health. Regular use can help alleviate issues, such as constipation and bloating, and lead to improved overall digestive health.
Suitable for All Ages
The simplicity and effectiveness of toilet stools make them suitable for individuals of all ages. From young children who are learning proper bathroom habits to older adults looking to maintain digestive health, toilet stools offer a beneficial adjustment to anyone’s routine.
To further understand the benefits of using toilet stools, check out our article Top 10 Reasons Why Squatting is Better Than Sitting on the Toilet to Poop.
Choose the Right Toilet Stool
Select a toilet stool that fits the height and size of your toilet. Most stools are designed to work with standard height toilets, but it's always better to check the compatibility.
Ideally, the stool should allow your feet to rest comfortably while elevating your knees above your hips. You can pick the perfect toilet stool for you and your loved ones by checking out the PROPPR collection.
Position the Stool
Place the toilet stool at the base of your toilet. Ensure it is stable and doesn't slide easily. It should be close enough that you can rest your feet on it without stretching.
Sit Correctly
Sit on the toilet as you normally would. Then, place your feet on the stool. Your hips should be above your knees, creating an angle that mimics a squatting position. This posture is key to effectively using a toilet stool and allowing your bowel to pass with ease.
Relax and Let Nature Take Its Course
Take your time. The new position should help stimulate a more natural and effortless bowel movement. Avoid excessive straining; let the improved angle do the work.
Return to Normal
Once you are done, simply place the stool to the side of your toilet. Regular use of the stool will help maintain optimal digestive health.
Clean the Stool Regularly
Just like any other bathroom accessory, it’s important to keep the toilet stool clean. Wipe it down with a gentle bathroom cleaner without any harsh chemicals regularly to maintain hygiene and prevent the build-up of bathroom germs.
Incorporating the use of a toilet foot stool into your daily routine is a simple yet highly effective way to improve your digestive health. Backed by both science and ergonomic principles, a toilet stool helps align your body for smoother, more complete bowel movements, reducing discomfort and promoting overall well-being. With its ease of use and proven benefits, this tool offers a practical solution for optimising your bathroom routine.