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A leading gut health expert has issued a stark warning about a widespread toilet habit that could be causing significant harm without people realising it. Dr Megan Rossi , who has built a substantial following of 577,000 on Instagram through her discussions on digestive health, has raised concerns about the dangers of lingering too long on the loo. She cautioned that spending excessive time sitting on the toilet – whether you are engrossed in a book or browsing through your mobile – can have serious consequences for your health . According to her, anything beyond 10 minutes 'messes with your gut'. The expert warned that this seemingly innocent habit increases the risk of developing haemorrhoids, placing undue strain on the pelvic floor, and potentially causing bowel 'confusion'. In a post shared with her followers, she outlined: "If you think scrolling in the loo is harmless, then think again. Here are three reasons why spending longer than 10 minutes on the toilet could actually mess with your gut . "One - haemorrhoid hazard. Sitting in the toilet posture puts pressure on the veins around your anus and your rectum. Add some straining into the mix and those blood vessels swell. Hello, haemorrhoids. "Two - pelvic floor pressure. That's a group of muscles that essentially hold up your bladder, bowl, and reproductive organs. Too much downward pressure over time can actually weaken them, which can lead to things like leakage or difficulty pooping.", reports Bristol Live . "And three, bowl confusion. Hanging out too long can actually throw off your natural signals. In fact, forcing it or waiting it out for long periods can actually make constipation worse and disrupt your gut-brain coordination. So bottom line, toilets are for quick visits and not long scrolls." The NHS explains that haemorrhoids - commonly called piles - are swellings inside and around the bottom. Symptoms include bleeding, itching, or a persistent feeling of needing the loo. Those affected should drink lots of fluids, use moist toilet tissue, and maintain cleanliness and dryness. Weakness in the pelvic floor muscles can result in discomfort during intercourse and problems with bladder or bowel control. Targeted exercises and proper guidance can help improve the condition.
