A new article from EatingWell explains that eating breakfast within one hour of waking up may help improve regular bowel movements and support digestive health.

Registered dietitians interviewed for the article say the colon is naturally most active in the morning, making early breakfast an effective way to stimulate digestion and encourage a bowel movement.

Experts describe this process as part of the gastrocolic reflex, a natural response in which eating triggers contractions in the colon that help move stool through the digestive system.According to the article, delaying breakfast for several hours after waking may reduce the effectiveness of this morning digestive activity.

Dietitians also emphasize that maintaining a consistent breakfast schedule helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and can train the digestive system to become more predictable over time, especially for people dealing with constipation or irregularity.The article highlights additional strategies that may improve bowel regularity.

Experts recommend eating fiber-rich breakfast foods such as oats, chia seeds, flaxseeds, berries and whole grains because fiber adds bulk and softness to stool.Staying hydrated is also considered essential, since water helps fiber work properly in the digestive tract.Some dietitians note that coffee may stimulate bowel movements as well because caffeine can activate the gut.The article encourages readers to make gradual lifestyle changes instead of overhauling their routines overnight.

Suggested adjustments include eating small breakfasts after skipping meals, moving breakfast earlier in stages, and slowly increasing daily fiber intake.

Overall, the experts conclude that consistent meal timing, adequate hydration and sufficient fiber intake are key habits for healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.