6 Scientific Reasons Why Indian Toilets Are Better Than Western Ones
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Nowadays, most of us are afflicted by health problems, which are largely lifestyle related. There is a lot of awareness among people regarding diet, exercise, and sleep requirements. But not many are open about discussing the pros and cons of their toilet habits. In fact, your toilet practices are as important for your overall well-being as much as the factors listed above (1).
In a developing country like ours, we are getting more used to appliances and fixtures that are inspired by western designs. This is not just convenience but also a matter of class and sophistication for many. One such fixture is the WC or Western-styled toilet. Indeed, it is a good thing for those who can’t afford to squat due to health or age-related issues. Otherwise, it is not a very logical or utilitarian design when it comes to emptying your bowels.
Experts believe that squatting is the most effective position when it comes to clearing your colon. It is shocking to note that there have been studies confirming that poor design of toilet seats can cause pelvic and colon diseases, and that is what the Western countries have been facing for long (2). Such problems are almost non-prevalent in countries or people who assume the traditional squat position to relieve themselves.
Keeping this in mind, it won’t be a bad idea to go back to our roots and adopt our traditional toilet practices that are beneficial for the following reasons:
1. A Fitter Choice
The traditional style of squatting makes you fitter because it is a natural form of exercise. It promotes better blood circulation and involves the hands, legs, and stomach muscles. It helps to tone the legs and strengthen the back muscles. Spending some time squatting also results in sweating and therefore, it is doubly beneficial. It is a natural form of cleansing and exercise.
2. Better Digestion
The position of squatting aids better digestion. It gently puts pressure on the stomach, which allows the food to be churned and passed through the bowels. It is a natural remedy for constipation as it places your knees closer to your torso, resulting in straightening your rectum and aiding easier passage of stools.
3. More Eco-Friendly
The squat toilets are more eco-friendly compared to their Western counterparts. If you aren’t using the modern flush system, it would generally require a lesser amount of water to flush away the fecal matter and traditionally, only some water, soap, and a hand towel are needed to clean your hands. As per the Western toilet system, you generally use a lot of water in a single flush and need loads of paper wipes to clean yourself, which is not eco-friendly or hygienic.
4. Better During Pregnancy
It is better for pregnant women to adopt a squat position to relieve themselves rather than passive sitting. The act of squatting exerts less pressure on the uterus and strengthens the abdominal and thigh muscles. This is a great way to encourage the body to prepare for natural labor and childbirth.
5. Cleaner And More Hygienic
While we are sitting down, it is more convenient to use water and soap after we are done. It is much better, cleaner, and more hygienic compared to using paper tissues, which may not remove all the bacteria and germs. It is also not advisable to use too much of dry paper on such sensitive skin. Even the modern day wet wipes are not a very good option because they contain preservatives and chemicals. And the natural ones are quite expensive. Plus, carrying them everywhere and their disposal are other concerns. Therefore, using some soap and water to clean the area with our hands seems like the easiest and the most convenient thing to do.
6. Prevents Colon Problems
The squat position results in much better and faster elimination of stools as compared to the sitting position. It facilitates an easier passage for the stools to pass, thereby preventing stagnation and the resultant diseases. It relaxes the muscles that may otherwise choke the rectum and disrupt continence. The thigh muscles are used to support the colon and prevent excess straining, which could lead to hemorrhoids.
These were some reasons you should choose an Indian or squat style toilet to be in better health and better shape. You would be surprised to know that recently, in an Australian government office in Melbourne, a squat toilet was built to cater to its staff belonging to diverse cultural backgrounds. This goes on to prove that even the Western countries are starting to open up to the idea of changing their ways and perspective regarding healthy toilet habits.
