Let’s talk about something we all do — or should be doing — every day: going to the toilet. It’s a common belief that you should be pooping once a day for optimal health. But is that actually true?
Here’s what science (and your gut) has to say.
💩 What’s Considered “Normal” When It Comes to Pooping?
The idea that one bowel movement per day is the gold standard isn’t entirely accurate. According to the medical community, “normal” bowel frequency can range from three times per day to three times per week (Mayo Clinic, 2023).
What’s more important than frequency is:
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Stool consistency
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Ease of passing
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Whether you feel fully “emptied” after going
If you’re going less often but not straining, feeling bloated, or experiencing discomfort — you’re probably doing just fine.
🚩 When to Be Concerned
While daily bowel movements are common and healthy, going less frequently can be a concern if it’s accompanied by:
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Constipation or straining
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Hard, dry stools
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Bloating, cramping, or discomfort
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Feeling like you haven’t fully emptied
Chronic constipation can lead to other issues like haemorrhoids or sluggish digestion. In such cases, it's worth reviewing your fibre intake, hydration, stress levels, and overall gut health.
✅ What Helps Promote Regularity?
To support consistent, healthy bowel movements, aim for:
1. Fibre-Rich Diet
Both soluble (e.g., oats, fruit) and insoluble fibre (e.g., leafy greens, seeds) bulk up stools and help food move through the digestive tract.
Aim: 25–30g of fibre per day
2. Hydration
Water helps soften stools and prevent constipation.
Aim: 1.5–2L of water per day, more if you're active
3. Movement
Physical activity helps stimulate gut motility. Even a 10–15 minute walk can help get things moving.
4. A Consistent Routine
Your gut loves routine. Try using the toilet at the same time each day, ideally in the morning after waking or breakfast, when the colon is most active.
5. Probiotics & Gut Support
Live cultures from fermented foods or supplements can help support a balanced microbiome, which plays a key role in bowel regularity.
🧠 Bottom Line
You don’t need to poop once a day to be healthy — but you should be going regularly, comfortably, and with ease. Anything between three times a day and three times a week is considered normal, as long as it’s not accompanied by discomfort or straining.
If you’re unsure about your gut health or notice changes in your bathroom habits, it’s always worth checking in with a GP or nutritionist.
📚 References
Mayo Clinic, 2023. Bowel movement: What's normal? [online] Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/bowel-movement/faq-20058327 [Accessed 21 May 2025].
Muller-Lissner, S.A., Kamm, M.A., Scarpignato, C. and Wald, A., 2005. Myths and misconceptions about chronic constipation. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 100(1), pp.232–242. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1572-0241.2005.40888.x
Eswaran, S., Muir, J. and Chey, W.D., 2013. Fiber and functional gastrointestinal disorders. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 108(5), pp.718–727. https://doi.org/10.1038/ajg.2013.63
