Hemorrhoids and the Squat vs. Sit Debate

Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in the anus and rectum. Most who have hemorrhoids often experience pain, irritation, itching and bleeding.  Hemorrhoids is rare in most parts of Asia, Middle East and Africa, but common in Western countries. In America, for example, about half of the population will be affected by it before age 50 (particularly women probably due to childbirth). There is a reason why hemorrhoids is  more prevalent in the Western countries but not in Asia, Middle East and Africa: the use of sitting toilets.

The recent development of using sitting toilets rather than squat commodes was increasing the incidence of hemorrhoids among Indonesians, a doctor said on Tuesday.

Eka Ginanjar, an internist from Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, said Western-style toilets were more unnatural than traditional conveyances because they caused more pressure to the rectal area.

Recently, the diet lacking in fiber has been blamed; however as previously quoted, countries using the sit western toilet more are more to blame.  A 2010 Japanese study found that squatting reduced abdominal pressure and muscle strain in comparison to sitting. An Israeli study done in 2003 found similar results, and also commented on the relative lack of issues relating to hemorrhoids and constipation that use squat toilets more frequently.

But what really made me want to post about hemorrhoids and our toilets is that in my own experience (ahem! I will not admit to hemorrhoids) it seems that limiting your time on the throne is the key.  That means no iPhones, no magazines, or newspapers on the potty.  In other words DO YOUR BUSINESS and move on.  Right?

Right?

So I present to you now the CTA Digital 2-in-1 iPotty with activity seat!

Train them now and young (ages 2-4, sorry pharmacy students!) to learn to sit and sit and sit.

What is it?  Well folks, it is a training toilet that features an adjustable docking station for an iPad and a clear cover to prevent smudges and other mishaps (probably urine and feces) to the attached device.  Fold the lid down and becomes a play seat for regular activities!  Brilliant (not!)

Why kids want it?  Because learning to poop like a civilized person is boring, but iPads aren't.  Yep.  That's the marketing right there.  It's boring to wait so sit and play.  Are you imagining yourself at work right now on the throne with your iPhone out?

Why parents want it for them?  By starting up an engaging, interactive app, tots are less likely to get fidgety and try to leave before the job is done.

Aren't we setting up these guys for a lifetime of sitting and playing = hemorrhoids?  (insert big laugh here)

If you want one... (not me!) check them out:

Maybe they will come up with an adult version soon.