If you’ve stepped on the scale after a poop to see how much weight you’ve just unloaded, you’re not the only one. So, is it true, will you “lose weight” (aka body fat) by pooping more, or more often? Nope.

Here’s the thing, when you have a bowel movement and then weigh yourself, you might see a small change in weight that tends to be equal to the weight of the stool. What’s more, poop is primarily made up of water. An estimated 75% of stool volume is water. So, while the scale may drop after a large poop, it’s going to be mostly water loss.

So, you have to think big picture here. At the end of the day the number on the scale will consistently swing up and down as your bowel movements do. If a bowel movement results in weight loss, it will be a temporary and insignificant change to a person’s weight. This is because the body is constantly processing food and passing waste. In other words, when you’re backed up, your weight might increase insignificantly, and after you relieve yourself, it might drop ... insignificantly.

Why do you feel smaller then? As the body passes stool, it also releases gas and make a person feel as though they have lost a little weight. That amazing feeling is more about de-bloating than actual loss of body mass. Sorry!

While the direct connection between pooping and weight loss is minimal, there is one aspect of the link that you can use to your benefit: Eating a diet that’s higher in fiber causes you not only to be more regular, but it can also speed up your metabolism and help you to lose weight. A high-fiber diet will stimulate your GI tract to promote bowel movement and prevent constipation. Fiber may help ward off certain cancers (especially that of the colon), it regulates blood sugar, and reduces cholesterol. And when it comes to your weight, fiber fills you up and keeps you fuller for longer.

By incorporating more fiber (found in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains) to your diet you’re making sure you’re promoting a healthy lifestyle as well as weight loss. However, don’t overdo it. Too much fiber can limit nutrient absorption and cause intestinal blockages.

Try a cup of high-fiber food as part of your breakfast, like a cup of berries with Greek yogurt. Aim to eat at least two fistfuls of veggies at both lunch and dinner to keep your digestive system – and your weight – as regular as possible. Also, you might find yourself pooping less frequently if you’re: dehydrated, stressed, experience hormonal changes (like PMS, menopause, or pregnancy), take certain OTC or prescription meds, or don’t exercise.

Bottom line: To lose body fat you need to focus on burning more calories than you consume. You can do this through diet and exercise – not your bowel habits.

Source: womenshealthmag.com, healthline.com, medicalnewstoday.com, verywellhealth.com, greatest.com, livestrong.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.