Beware the Squatty Potty - Skeptoid

[Quixote1818]

Why not just use a $5 foot stool from Home Depot rather than pay $30 for one of these? Cute advertising campaign though. I would be more apt to buy one as a White Elephant gift or just for a laugh at Christmas.



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Overall I would say this about the Squatty Potty: on the positive side it almost certainly enhances your ability to bear down when you go. There is some replicated evidence that squatting does foster ease of going. As for the negatives, there is no evidence that it prevents or treats uncomplicated constipation. There’s no real evidence that anatomic position is a risk factor for constipation, and no real evidence that it is significantly different than other types of toilet squat devices. It leads you to believe that sitting is an impairment to normal bowel movements. That implied problem is not supported by the research and is unlikely, based on uneven distribution of constipation problems.

So why buy a Squatty Potty? I can’t say I think it’s worth it. Truthfully, it looks a little ridiculous, not that that means anything during a bowel movement. It really has no effect on other factors that impact constipation—diet, exercise, age and medical issues. I am uncertain that changing your position is enough of a benefit to help anyone suffering from chronic constipation. I can say that it is not dangerous and it may make it easier for you to bear down or reduce straining if you are constipated. It is just not reasonable to say that it has any significant effect on your overall bowel habits.

On the upside, Squatty Potty is relatively inexpensive, seems safe, and as long as you have a realistic view of the benefit I can see someone using it.

Link: https://skeptoid.com/blog/2015/09/26/squatty-potty/

[zappaman]

1. I'm on the ipad right now using my squatty potty!

Multi tasking!

[randome]

2. T.M.I.

[hr][font color="blue"][center]All things in moderation, including moderation.[/center][/font][hr]

[11 Bravo]

8. W.T.M.F.I.

[Quixote1818]

3. Just don't get naughtty while using your squatty potty while

checking out a hottie.

[ErikJ]

4. I just use a narrow cinder block like this

[HuckleB]

5. I use a cheap stool, as you suggest.

I always preferred going in the woods when backpacking, to any other time, and it is because of the position, I suspect.

[Ex Lurker]

6. One of my nephews is in the habit of

taking his shoes off and perching like a bird with his feet up on the toilet seat. When he can't do this, like in a public restroom, it takes him a long time to "get going." Wasn't a big deal when he was younger, but he's 14 years old and keeps growing. If he tops out at well over 6 feet tall and well more than 200 lbs, as seems likely, it's going to be a problem..

[HickFromTheTick]

7. Try this:

1. Raise your arms so that you raise your shoulders, not just your arms, you must lift the weight off of your collarbones, like reaching for the sky..
2. Lean back till your hands touch the wall behind you, arching your back as much as possible. Looking straight up/tilting your head back will help.
3. Feel your load slide out like never before. You WILL moan in relief.

You're welcome.

[11 Bravo]

9. Sounds to me like a recipe for shitting all over the floor ...

directly in front of the toilet.