Harvard Gut Health Expert Reveals Daily ‘Checklist’ for Optimal Digestion
BOSTON, MA - October 26, 2023 – A Harvard-affiliated gut health doctor has shared a daily “checklist” of habits designed to improve digestion and overall gut health, gaining traction on social media. Dr. Sethi, whose recent post details the routine, emphasizes the importance of mindful practices to support a healthy gut.
According to Dr. Sethi, the morning routine begins with avoiding screens during breakfast. He explains the sympathetic system, responsible for the ‘fight or flight response,’ can be triggered by screens, and the NHS confirms we cannot simultaneously be in ‘fight or flight’ and a relaxed digestive state. Research from China also indicates screen use while eating can diminish intuitive eating-the body’s natural hunger and fullness cues.
To aid digestion,Dr. Sethi incorporates a walk after breakfast, noting, “It makes a difference.” He also advocates for daily stool checks, observing “color, shape and ease” to assess gut health. He utilizes the Bristol Stool Chart, developed by NHS medics in the UK, which classifies stools into seven types based on form and consistency. Dr. Sethi advises aiming for Bristol types three to four.
He recommends starting with two to three of these habits and gradually incorporating more over time.
This advice follows a previous post where Dr. Sethi urged people to limit toilet time to under five minutes to reduce the risk of haemorrhoids, explaining that prolonged sitting increases pressure on rectal veins. A recent study confirmed smartphone use on the toilet can nearly double the chance of developing haemorrhoids.
Ironically, many social media users commented on the video stating they were watching it while on the toilet, with one user writing, ”I scrolled to this vid while on the loo.” Despite the lighthearted responses, the potential health implications remain significant.
