Constipation is a common issue, but a top UK gut doctor has revealed a surprising, drug-free method to alleviate it instantly. In a recent TikTok post, NHS surgeon Dr Karan Rajan demonstrated ‘the pendulum technique,’ which involves simply rocking back and forth on the toilet to stimulate bowel movement. This approach, according to the medic with over 5.3 million followers, is as effective as more expensive and impractical methods.
Dr Rajan, also known as Dr Karan Raj on TikTok, suggested that the same effect of stimulating bowel movement could be achieved by physically rocking forward and backward while seated on the toilet. He explained: ‘This movement can trigger mechanical stimulation to increase colonic motility.’
@dr.karanrExpert level toilet hacks♬ original sound – Dr Karan Raj
Furthermore, he mentioned that leaning forward specifically relaxes the pelvic floor, which is the cradle of muscle that sits at the base of the pelvis and controls continence. In order to void the bowels, the pelvic floor needs to be relaxed. On the contrary, straining can cause it to tense, having the opposite of the desired effect.
In the same video clip, Dr Rajan outlined another method to get the bowels moving — suggesting relief could be found ‘by becoming your own massage therapist’. He advised: ‘There is evidence that abdominal massages in a sweeping clockwise motion can help, but always ensure you are going right to left in the path of your intestine to stimulate peristalsis.’ Peristalsis moves food through the digestive system by causing the muscles in the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine to contract in a wave-like motion.
Additionally, Dr Rajan suggested a third exercise that helps relax the pelvic floor. He advocated for gentle and steady exhalation by ‘imagining you’re blowing up a balloon or blowing out candles’. This diaphragmatic breathing technique stimulates your vagus nerve which helps better coordinate the relaxation of your pelvic floor muscles so you strain less.
Prolonged constipation can lead to health issues such as haemorrhoids and anal fissures. Haemorrhoids are engorged blood vessels that form lumps inside and around the anus, which can itch and bleed. A fissure is a tear that develops in the lining of the large intestine, near the anus. It can cause sharp pain when passing waste and also cause bleeding.
Addressing dietary components, Dr Rajan highlighted that eating more fibre, drinking plenty of water, and exercising more can help relieve constipation. He specifically mentioned kiwifruit, which is rich in soluble fibre, as the best fruit for relieving constipation. This type of fibre attracts water to form a gel in the gut, making stools softer and increasing frequency of bowel movements.
The significance of Dr Rajan’s revelations lies in their simplicity and accessibility. With constipation affecting a large proportion of the population, the ‘pendulum technique’ and other methods he suggests are not only cost effective, but also easy to implement. In a world where pharmaceutical solutions often dominate healthcare advice, these natural methods offer a welcome alternative, especially for those looking for immediate relief without resorting to medication.
Constipation can lead to serious health complications like haemorrhoids and anal fissures if left untreated. Therefore, Dr Rajan’s advice could be instrumental in mitigating these issues before they escalate. The fact that his methods involve simple physical adjustments and dietary changes makes them easily accessible to everyone.
Furthermore, the emphasis on soluble fibre-rich foods like kiwifruit, figs, avocados, flax seeds and apples aligns with a broader trend towards healthier eating habits. This goes beyond just resolving constipation; it’s about promoting overall gut health, which is increasingly recognized as crucial to general wellbeing.
Dr Rajan’s advice also raises questions about Western toilet habits. The suggestion that sitting may prolong the process and prevent our bowels from opening fully adds another dimension to the conversation. This could potentially lead to a reassessment of the way we approach this essential bodily function.
In conclusion, while these toilet hacks might seem trivial, they are part of a larger conversation about the importance of gut health and the way we care for our bodies. With the rise in popularity of platforms like TikTok for health advice dissemination, medical professionals like Dr Rajan are able to reach wider audiences and make significant contributions to public health knowledge.
Dr Rajan’s simple yet effective toilet hacks underscore the power of knowledge in taking control of our own health. As healthcare becomes increasingly digital and decentralised, the role of platforms like TikTok in disseminating such practical advice cannot be underestimated. The popularity of these tips also highlights the growing interest in natural, non-pharmaceutical solutions to common health issues.
Looking ahead, it’s possible that we’ll see more healthcare professionals like Dr Rajan using social media to reach wider audiences. By doing so, they can bring important, often overlooked health topics, such as constipation and gut health, into the mainstream conversation. This could lead to more informed health choices and better outcomes for many.
Ultimately, Dr Rajan’s advice serves as a reminder that sometimes, simple changes can make a significant difference. As we delve deeper into the era of digital health education, it’s worth asking: what other everyday health issues could be solved with a few simple adjustments? And how can we better use technology to democratize access to this kind of practical, life-changing advice?
Neuroscientist reveals a new way to manifest more financial abundance
Breakthrough Columbia study confirms the brain region is 250 million years old, the size of a walnut and accessible inside your brain right now.
