The Bristol Stool Chart: Your Guide to Poop Perfection
KATU ABC 2 is a television station based in Portland, Oregon, affiliated with the ABC network.
It’s something we all do, but many are too embarrassed to talk about! Functional Medicine Clinician and natural health expert, Bryce Wylde, shared what your bowel movements should look like, as well as tips for those who are feeling bloated, backed up, or just spending too much time in the restroom.For more information about Bryce, visit his website here.
Understanding Your Digestive Health: Is Your Poop Normal?
Ever wondered if your bowel movements are normal? Regularity is a key indicator of digestive health, but what exactly does it mean to be “regular”? For viewers in the Pacific Northwest, alternative health expert Bryce Wylde, BSc, DHMHS, Homeopath, provided some fun and informative insights on this topic during his recent appearances on Portland’s Afternoon Live and Everyday Northwest.
Just like there’s an eye chart to check your vision, there’s a chart for your stool known as the Bristol Stool Chart. This handy guide illustrates the seven types of poop, ranging from pellet-like constipation to watery diarrhea. Wylde brought this chart to life in a unique way, using clay models to represent each type and placing them under seven toilet seat lids during his TV segments.
So, what’s the ideal poop? “Type 3 is what you want to see,” Wylde advised. “This is a perfect S-shaped stool. It dives into the bowl like an Olympic diver. And you’re in and out of the bathroom in less than a couple of minutes, with no time to scroll through your social media while you’re waiting for things to happen.”
The Role of Prebiotic Soluble Fiber
Wylde also highlighted the importance of prebiotic soluble fiber in achieving that perfect stool. Sunfiber, a prebiotic soluble fiber supplement made from the guar bean, has become increasingly popular for its ability to regulate bowel movements. According to Wylde, this type of fiber not only supports digestive regularity but may also contribute to better moods, thanks to the gut-brain connection.
“We’re hearing a lot about the gut-brain connection,” Wylde explained. “If your gut isn’t regular, then mood may be impacted.” He added, “We’re also learning more about the gut’s connection to heart health and immune function.”
How to Incorporate Sunfiber into Your Diet
While fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of insoluble fiber, adding a soluble fiber like Sunfiber can help you achieve those ideal type 3 or 4 bowel movements for a happy gut. The best part? Sunfiber is tasteless, odorless, and mixes easily into water, coffee, or any other beverage, making it a convenient addition to your daily routine.
If you’re interested in trying Sunfiber, it’s now available at select Target and BiMart stores, as well as online at Target.com. You can also find it on Amazon and at Tomorrow’s Nutrition online stores.
For those wanting to dive deeper into the world of digestive health, consider downloading the full Bristol Stool Chart to keep track of your bowel health at home. Remember, your poop says a lot about your health, so take a seat and learn more about staying regular!