Using Your Phone in the Bathroom? Scientists Warn of a Hidden Gut Health Danger You Shouldn’t Ignore

Using phone in toilet: Many people use their smartphones while visiting the bathroom, scrolling through social media or reading news. While this habit may seem harmless, new research published in PLOS One warns of potential health risks. The study, conducted by researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, highlights a significant link between prolonged smartphone use on the toilet and an increased risk of haemorrhoids. Experts, including Harvard-trained gastroenterologists, emphasize that everyday bathroom habits, such as straining, extended sitting, and distractions from phones, can silently affect digestive health and long-term gut wellness.

Key Highlights on Smartphone Use in the Bathroom and Gut Health:

• Prolonged Smartphone Use Increases Haemorrhoid Risk: Adults who use phones in the bathroom have a 46% higher chance of developing haemorrhoids.

• Extended Sitting Contributes to Gut Issues: Spending over five minutes per toilet visit, often due to scrolling or reading, increases pressure on rectal veins.

• Common Disruptive Bathroom Habits: Straining, holding in bowel movements, overusing wipes, and ignoring warning signs like blood in stool can cause chronic gut problems.

• Mindful Habits Promote Digestive Wellness: Limiting toilet time, maintaining natural posture, staying hydrated, and monitoring stool health are key to preventing complications.

• Experts Recommend Phone-Free Bathroom Visits: Harvard-trained doctors suggest leaving phones outside and using short, safe alternatives like a magazine or newspaper.

Why Using Phones in the Bathroom Can Harm Your Health

A study conducted at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, surveyed 125 adults undergoing routine colonoscopy. Researchers found that individuals who used their smartphones while on the toilet were more likely to develop haemorrhoids. On average, 66% of participants admitted to phone use in the bathroom, with activities like reading news (54.3%) or browsing social media (44.4%). The study confirmed that longer sitting times, often caused by digital distractions, contribute directly to pressure on rectal veins, increasing the risk of digestive issues.

Dr. Mahesh Gupta, Senior Consultant at Dharamshila Narayana Hospital, New Delhi, explains: “Using mobile phones in the washroom has become an increasingly common habit, but it poses significant health risks. Prolonged sitting on the toilet can lead to excessive pressure on the rectal veins, contributing to haemorrhoids.”

Common Bathroom Habits That Can Harm Digestive Health

According to Harvard-trained gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi, several everyday habits can negatively affect gut health:

• Excessive straining during bowel movements, which pressures rectal veins and muscles.

• Scrolling on smartphones or reading for prolonged periods.

• Overusing wipes or harsh cleaning products.

• Frequent reliance on laxatives.

• Ignoring natural urges to defecate or making unnecessary bathroom trips.

• Holding breath while pushing or ignoring warning signs like blood in stool or urine.

Neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar, trained at CMC Vellore, reinforces that smartphone use in the bathroom can increase sitting time fivefold, escalating haemorrhoid risk by 46%, based on the PLOS One study.

Also Read: Holistic Approaches to Mental Health Treatment: Combining Therapy with Lifestyle Changes

How to Support Your Gut Health in the Bathroom

While some habits disrupt digestion, mindful practices can enhance gut wellness. Experts recommend:

• Using a small footstool with western-style toilets to mimic a natural squatting posture for smoother bowel movements.

• Limiting toilet sessions to under five minutes to prevent unnecessary strain.

• Practicing gentle hygiene and monitoring stool changes.

• Staying hydrated and including fibre-rich foods in your diet.

• Maintaining regular bathroom timing to support consistent bowel habits.

• Keeping the bathroom calm and tidy to reduce stress.

• Focusing on relaxation rather than rushing to avoid gut strain.

Dr. Trisha Pasricha, senior author of the study, advises: “Smartphones turn quick bathroom visits into prolonged sessions, increasing strain on the digestive system. Leave your phone outside; a short magazine read is a safer alternative.”

Early Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Ignoring early digestive issues can lead to long-term problems. Be alert to:

• Blood in stool or urine.

• Persistent constipation or frequent diarrhoea.

• Pain during bowel movements.

• Addressing these warning signs promptly can prevent complications and support long-term gut health.

Mindful Bathroom Habits Can Protect Your Digestive Health

The bathroom may seem like a private space, but how you use it has a direct impact on your overall digestive wellness. Avoid prolonged sitting, excessive straining, and smartphone distractions. Instead, adopt healthy routines that support natural bowel movements, maintain hygiene, and encourage hydration. By making small, mindful adjustments, you can reduce the risk of haemorrhoids, improve gut function, and ensure better long-term digestive health.

Spiritual Insights: The Unique Knowledge of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj

Beyond physical health, Tatvadarshi Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj emphasizes the importance of spiritual wellness in achieving true overall well-being. His teachings guide devotees toward disciplined living, mindful habits, and the purification of both body and soul. By following the wisdom shared by Tatvdarshi Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj, individuals can cultivate inner peace, avoid negative influences, and maintain harmony between physical and spiritual health. 

To learn more about the teachings of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj, visit www.jagatgururampalji.org or explore the YouTube channel: Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj for authentic guidance and spiritual knowledge.

FAQs on Using Smartphones in the Bathroom and Gut Health

1. Does using a smartphone in the bathroom increase haemorrhoid risk?

Yes. According to a 2025 study published in PLOS One, adults who use smartphones while on the toilet have a 46% higher risk of developing haemorrhoids due to prolonged sitting and pressure on rectal veins.

2. How long should a toilet visit ideally last to protect gut health?

Experts recommend limiting bathroom visits to under five minutes. Extended sitting, often caused by phone distractions, can increase strain on the digestive system and raise the risk of haemorrhoids.

3. What are common bathroom habits that harm digestive health?

Straining during bowel movements, scrolling on phones, overusing wipes, relying on laxatives, holding in bowel urges, and ignoring warning signs like blood in stool are habits that can disrupt digestion and gut function.

4. How can I improve my gut health while using the bathroom?

Adopt mindful habits: use a footstool to support a natural squatting posture, maintain hygiene, stay hydrated, eat fibre-rich foods, and avoid phone distractions to ensure smooth bowel movements and better digestive wellness.

5. What warning signs of gut problems should never be ignored?

Blood in stool or urine, persistent constipation, frequent diarrhoea, or pain during bowel movements are early signs of digestive issues. Prompt attention and medical consultation can prevent long-term gut complications.