Yes, we’re talking about poop. And yes, it’s serious — because your toilet habits say a lot about your health. It’s a key indicator of your overall well-being. So if you’re one of those people who wakes up, drinks coffee… and waits for nature to call, you’re already on the right track. Gastroenterologists agree: the best time to go to the bathroom is in the morning. Here’s why — and how to turn it into a real wellness habit.
Your circadian rhythm, the silent coach of your digestion
Your body operates with an ultra-precise internal clock: the circadian rhythm. It controls your sleep, body temperature… and your digestion. While you’re sleeping, your colon is working slowly to get your waste ready to go. So when you wake up (and especially after you eat breakfast), a natural reaction kicks in.
This is called the gastrocolic reflex: when your stomach stretches after eating, it stimulates your colon to move. Think of it as a wake-up call for your intestines. According to Dr. Kenneth Brown, a U.S.-based gastroenterologist, the optimal time to poop is shortly after waking, once you’ve had something to eat or drink.
Why a poop routine really matters?
Going regularly is good. Going at a consistent time is even better. It helps your body automate the process, like switching on autopilot. No more waiting or forcing it: your body just knows when it’s time. And when it becomes a habit, you reduce the risk of constipation, bloating, or more serious digestive issues.
But let’s be clear: there’s no single perfect hour. If you don’t poop every morning, don’t panic. The most important thing is consistency. As Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, a gut health expert, puts it: “When our gut is in rhythm, we are having good, complete and regular bowel movements that are satisfying. Having an irregular gut rhythm compromises our bowel motility [the movement of food and waste through the digestive system] and our gut microbiome.”
Fiber, hydration, movement: the winning trio
If you want your morning bathroom visit to go smoothly (literally), you’ve got to take care of your digestive system. Here are the three essentials to build into your routine:
- Fiber: aim for 30 grams a day (from fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains). It feeds your good bacteria and promotes healthy transit.
- Water: hydrate as soon as you wake up, with a large glass of warm water or lemon water if you’re into that wellness vibe. Staying hydrated makes your stools softer and easier to pass.
- Movement: walking, yoga, a few squats with music… anything that naturally stimulates peristalsis, the wave-like contractions of your intestines.
How to turn it into a real wellness ritual
Turning your daily poop into a healthy, natural moment is 100% doable. Start by waking up at the same time each day, ideally with exposure to natural light to support your internal clock. As soon as you’re up, hydrate — a big glass of water before your coffee can do wonders. Then, fuel your body with a fiber-rich breakfast to activate your digestion.
Add in a few minutes of movement, like stretching or walking, to get things flowing. After that, you can take a calm, unhurried moment in the bathroom — without distractions (yes, that means putting your phone down). And remember: never ignore the urge, even if you’re in a rush. Your body is speaking — you just need to listen.
