Let’s be honest: sitting on the toilet has become the unofficial reading room of the 21st century. Books, comics, and—most dangerously—smartphones have turned the bathroom into a mini entertainment center.
But here’s the scoop: sitting on the loo for too long could give your bum a bad day. In fact, scientists say it might make you almost 50% more likely to get haemorrhoids (also known as piles—yep, we said it).
So, what are haemorrhoids, anyway?
They’re squishy cushiony bits in your bottom that usually help keep everything in place. But if you sit too long scrolling memes or watching videos, those cushions can get swollen, causing pain, lumps, and even bleeding. Ouch!
What’s the deal with phones and toilets?
A new study found that people who bring their smartphones to the toilet stay there longer. Some folks even admitted to sitting there for over five minutes—just catching up on the news or checking social media. One person probably even read this article while on the toilet. Awkward!
What does this mean for your bathroom breaks?
Well, if you want to avoid the dreaded bum bumps, here’s what you can do:
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Leave the phone outside. Yes, it’s hard. No, the world won’t end while you poop.
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Eat more fiber. Think fruits, veggies, and wholegrains—your butt will thank you.
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Drink water—not from the toilet!
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Don’t sit too long. Toilet time should be quick, not an episode of your favorite show.
👩⚕️ And remember: if you notice anything weird, like blood or pain, talk to a doctor. Haemorrhoids are super common, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore them.
So next time you’re heading to the bathroom, maybe swap your phone for a rubber ducky. It’s quieter, cleaner, and doesn’t distract you into sitting there until your legs go numb.
