Needing to urgently rush to the toilet can feel stressful and even embarrassing, especially when you’re out and about. Have you ever planned your day around where the toilets are located? You’re not the only one! If it’s happening regularly, it’s a sign that your gut is trying to tell you something. While an occasional episode might just be from food moving through quickly, persistent urgency usually has an underlying cause.
One of the most common reasons is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). In IBS, the gut can become extra sensitive to certain foods, stress or changes in routine. This can speed up the movement of food through your digestive tract, giving you little warning before you need the toilet. For more information on IBS, read my blog here.
Food intolerances can also play a role. For example, some people struggle to digest lactose (found in dairy) or fructose (found in fruit, honey and processed foods). When these aren’t absorbed properly, they draw water into the bowel and create gas, leading to cramping and urgent trips to the toilet. But how do you know which foods are causing problems? It’s stressful eliminating foods and wondering if it could be dairy but going even further and wondering if a specific food such as chicken is causing an issue?
To avoid the confusion, we do the HairSense Nutrition Analysis Test. It shows us which foods and drinks you’re reacting to. The more you react, the more inflammation, resulting in those urgent toilet breaks.
Another big factor is stress and anxiety. The gut and brain are closely linked through the gut-brain axis. When you feel stressed, your nervous system can trigger faster bowel movements. Ever wonder why you get butterflies and/or the urgent need to rush to the bathroom before a public speaking gig? That’s the gut-brain axis talking.
Need some tips on reducing anxiety? Click here to learn more.
Other possible causes include gut infections, overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine (SIBO) or inflammatory bowel conditions.
If urgency is happening often, it’s important not to ignore it. While diet and lifestyle changes can make a big difference like eating more fibre, managing stress and identifying food triggers – ongoing or severe symptoms should always be checked by a health professional to rule out anything more serious.
The good news? Once you understand the root cause, urgent bowel movements can usually be managed, giving you back confidence and control.
If you’re struggling with your poos, oops bowel movements(!) and you’re not sure what’s going on, why not book a free 20 min call with Sal to find out how she can help.
Or you can book a 1:1 Initial Consultation with Sal. Consultations are online but if you prefer face to face and live in Melbourne or the Bayside area, she is now offering ‘Walk & Talk’ consultations in Sandringham.
Alternatively, you can get started with the HairSense Nutrition Analysis Test now.