Illustrations by Liz Zonarich accompany a health guide on gut wellness. Sy Boles from Harvard reports that about 40% of Americans experience bowel movement issues that affect their daily life, as noted by Trisha Pasricha, an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. Pasricha, a gastroenterologist and contributor to The Washington Post\u2019s \u201cAsk a Doctor\u201d column, has authored a new book titled \u201cYou\u2019ve Been Pooping All Wrong: How to Make Your Bowel Movements a Joy.\u201d She contributed to creating a gut health quiz.<\/p>\n
The quiz, which is part of the guide, begins with nine steps. The first question asks if pooping once a day is ideal. Another question inquires about which animal, besides humans, commonly suffers from serious constipation. Options include geese, dogs, rabbits, and porpoises. The quiz also asks for the medical term for bowel noises, with choices like borborygmus and flatus. Additionally, it questions if lying can impact bowel function.<\/p>\n
Further questions cover dietary recommendations, asking about the National Academy of Sciences\u2019 fiber intake suggestion for men and women under 50. It also examines which fruits, aside from prunes, have been extensively researched for their effects on bowel health, listing kiwi and pineapple as options. The quiz includes questions about the best type of bread for gut health and whether processed meats are beneficial.<\/p>\n
The final question explores characteristics of individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as their increased likelihood of having experienced childhood emotional trauma or having more pain receptors in their colons compared to those without IBS.<\/p>\n