You’ve been pooping wrong, but here’s how to fix it

In this episode of Instant Genius, host Hattie Wilmoth speaks with Dr. Tricia Pasricha, a gastroenterologist and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, about the overlooked importance of bowel health. Dr. Pasricha challenges the stigma around discussing poop, arguing that our bowel movements are vital indicators of overall health, from mood and diet to serious conditions like early-onset colorectal cancer and Parkinson’s disease. She introduces the concept of 'poophoria'—a state where pooping is effortless, comfortable, and no longer a source of anxiety or disruption. The episode dives into practical advice: normal pooping frequency ranges from three times daily to once every three days, and the key markers of healthy bowel movements are comfort, ease, and lack of interference with daily life. Dr. Pasricha debunks myths like the need to poop daily and emphasizes the role of fiber in improving gut health and supporting the microbiome. She also explores the gut-brain axis, explaining how stress affects digestion and how gut health can influence mental well-being. Practical bathroom habits—such as elevating the knees with a stool to mimic a squatting position and limiting smartphone use during bowel movements—are highlighted as simple, effective fixes. The episode also addresses common disruptions like travel, menstruation, and running, offering science-backed solutions for each. Ultimately, Dr. Pasricha urges listeners to treat their gut with the same respect as their brain, reframing it as a complex, intelligent system deserving of care and curiosity.