Did you know 1 in 4 Canadians report being constipated? And because that number is self-reported, the true rate is likely much higher.
Constipation is one of the most common and most overlooked reasons for bloating, cramping and abdominal discomfort. Yet instead of tackling the basics, many people jump straight into complicated solutions like elimination diets.
Spoiler alert: sometimes, you don’t need to cut out half your food—you just need to poop.
Why Constipation Gets Overlooked
As a dietitian, I often see people self-diagnose with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) before ruling out constipation. We live in a culture that loves complicated solutions, but the truth is: if you’re not pooping regularly, your gut is going to feel off—no matter what you eat.
So before you reach for the low FODMAP guide or cut out dairy, let’s talk about some low-hanging fruit (or should I say, low-lying poop solutions).
Women and Bowel Health: Why Constipation Hits Harder
While constipation can affect anyone, women report nearly twice the rates of constipation compared to men. Why? There are many possible reasons—hormones, anatomy, and yes, cultural pressures.
For generations, women have been told not to fart. As if a woman should never stink up a bathroom. We’ve shamed women for farting in public the same way we’ve shamed them for breastfeeding in public.
My hope as a dietitian is simple: that women feel safe to fart, poop, and take care of their bowel health—because digestion is normal, natural, and essential for well-being.
The Truth About Bloating and Gas
Here’s the reality: farting is a healthy sign your digestive system is doing its job. What’s not healthy? Holding it in, skipping bathroom breaks, or avoiding pooping in public because it feels embarrassing.
I’m not saying you should let one rip in a job interview or on a hot date (please don’t). But if you need to fart or poop—step away and let your body do what it’s designed to do.
My Challenge to You:
Push back on our culture’s bathroom shame.
Poop in the public washroom.
Poop when you’re traveling.
Poop when you’re at work.
Don’t hold it in.
And yes—my dietitian dream is that everyone instantly knows to breathe through their mouth when they walk into a bathroom. Here’s to better digestion, fewer stomach cramps, and a culture where poop talk is as normal as talking about breakfast.
Ready to Take a Personalized Approach to Gut Health?
If bloating, constipation, or abdominal discomfort are holding you back, let’s make a plan that works for you. Book a FREE 15-minute discovery call learn how we can work together on a plan tailored to your body, lifestyle, and goals. Click here to schedule your call.
Here’s to bowel health—and here’s to making poop talk normal.
Add a comment