Importance of Squatting position in bathroom

It is well known that west is technologically more advanced than east. Western technology has made human life quiet comfortable. One such western comfort item is western closet and these western closets are getting increasingly popular in Indian subcontinent. These closets have now a days become a symbol of modernity and Indian families are fast shifting to comfortable sitting position on western closet from the traditional squatting position.


Very few people know the health benefits of traditional squatting position and people are blindly shifting to western sitting position in bathrooms. Via this article we aim to create an awareness among the Desis about benefits of traditional squatting position and why we should avoid modern sitting position. Not all technology that makes life comfortable is good for health. We should use technology with caution.


Benefits of Squatting postion (Source: http://www.naturesplatform.com/health_benefits.html):

1. Makes elimination faster, easier and more complete. This helps prevent “fecal stagnation” a prime factor in colon cancer, appendicitis and inflammatory bowel disease.

2. Protects the nerves that control the prostate, bladder and uterus from becoming stretched and damaged.

3. Securely seals the ileocecal valve, between the colon and the small intestine. In the western sitting position, this valve is unsupported and often leaks during evacuation, contaminating the small intestine.

4. Relaxes the puborectalis muscle which normally chokes the rectum in order to maintain continence.

5. Uses the thighs to support the colon and prevent straining. Chronic straining on the toilet can cause hernias, diverticulosis, and pelvic organ prolapse.

6. A highly effective, non-invasive treatment for hemorrhoids (Piles).

7. For pregnant women, squatting avoids pressure on the uterus when using the toilet. Daily squatting helps prepare one for a more natural delivery.

 Reference: Tagart REB. The Anal Canal and Rectum: Their Varying Relationship and
Its Effect on Anal Continence, Diseases of the Colon and Rectum 1966: 9, 449-452.

 The unnatural unhealthy chair like sitting position was initially used only by Royalty and disabled people. But its association with Royalty made it popular.

Let us spread the word about importance of squatting position and save our society from many diseases caused by unhealthy life style.

For complete article about benfits of squatting position and clinical research results visit  http://www.naturesplatform.com/health_benefits.html