by Ever the Optimist » 02 Jul 2013, 15:15
Hi Luka,
This is a really interesting question because I always wonder also what is the norm, although I read there is no "norm" - some people do go several times a day, others a few times a week and not every day.
I generally go twice (always once first thing when I get up) and then the second between mid-morning to early evening. I never seem to go at night. Sometimes, I go three times a day and sometimes, once, but generally twice.
I do notice that the pattern really depends on what I eat and when! Stuff that gives me the mushy soft stools (lots of salad/ veggies/ beans) gives me 2-3 BMs a day. When I add in more fibre or meats & (bread/ pasta etc.) I go less - it seems the "bulkier" the stuff I eat, the less I need to go because these stools are generally larger and better formed (but still soft!!) than with the "mushier" foods above.
At the weekends, my pattern changes because I get up later, go to the toilet later, eat breakfast later etc....then I have fewer BM's......
Be really interested in reading other responses to this one!
I'm sure you don't have any nasty diseases (stop self-diagnosing!!!:) ) but it could also be related to your intake of soluble v insoluble fibre - I'm wondering if possibly you would benefit from introducing more soluble fibre?
"Soluble fiber dissolves in water. Insoluble fiber does not.
Soluble fibers attract water and form a gel, which [b]slows down digestion. Soluble fiber delays the emptying of your stomach and makes you feel full, which helps control weight.[/b] Slower stomach emptying may also affect blood sugar levels and have a beneficial effect on insulin sensitivity, which may help control diabetes. Soluble fibers can also help lower LDL (“bad”) blood cholesterol by interfering with the absorption of dietary cholesterol.
Sources of soluble fiber: oatmeal, oat cereal, lentils, apples, oranges, pears, oat bran, strawberries, nuts, flaxseeds, beans, dried peas, blueberries, psyllium, cucumbers, celery, and carrots.
Insoluble fibers are considered gut-healthy fiber because they have a laxative effect and add bulk to the diet, helping prevent constipation. These fibers do not dissolve in water, so they pass through the gastrointestinal tract relatively intact, and speed up the passage of food and waste through your gut. Insoluble fibers are mainly found in whole grains and vegetables.
Sources of insoluble fiber: whole wheat, whole grains, wheat bran, corn bran, seeds, nuts, barley, couscous, brown rice, bulgur, zucchini, celery, broccoli, cabbage, onions, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, green beans, dark leafy vegetables, raisins, grapes, fruit, and root vegetable skins.
Maybe this is something for you to consider if you haven't already done so??? :)
Anxiety may also make you more prone to going more often????
Chronic Fissure diagnosed December 2011
Healed by Diltiazem around Feb 2013
Anal Fistula followed burst abscess in June 2012
2 internal troublesome piles remain & suspected, but undiagnosed, ongoing Levator Ani type symptoms & flare-ups