We Asked 2,000 Americans About Their Poop — Here's What They Shared

The State of American Digestive Health: A Millennial Focus

The topic of digestion is more prevalent than ever, with social media trends like fibermaxxing and microbiome testing offering solutions for gut health. Emerging research also highlights a growing concern about colorectal cancer among young adults. At the heart of this conversation is a recent survey conducted by a leading publication, which aimed to uncover how Americans truly feel about their bowel movements.

This summer, the survey reached out to 2,001 U.S. adults, asking them about their poop patterns, bathroom habits, and stomach symptoms. The results showed that while most Americans' poop is usually fine, it can sometimes be stressful, confusing, or even scary. Stomach issues are common, with over 73% experiencing gas and 52% dealing with bloating at least occasionally. Nearly half of respondents have been diagnosed with a gastrointestinal condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastritis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Millennials and Their Gut Health: A Closer Look

Among all age groups, millennials reported the most digestive problems and made the greatest efforts to manage them. About half of millennials have been diagnosed with at least one digestive disease, the highest percentage compared to other generations. IBS is particularly prevalent, with 22% of millennials diagnosed with any form of the disorder. They are also more likely to suffer from gastritis, gastric ulcers, and infections like C. diff and intestinal parasites.

Millennials are significantly more likely to seek medical care for their GI issues, with 55% having seen a doctor compared to 29% of boomers. They are also more likely to take prescribed medications for their symptoms, with 59% of millennials using such treatments versus 36% of boomers.

In addition to medical care, millennials are embracing technology and holistic approaches to manage their digestive health. More than two-thirds own flushable wipes, toilet stools, bidets, or seat warmers. Compared to those over 61, fewer older adults invest in these products. Millennials are also more likely to manage their stomach issues through diet than other generations.

Despite these efforts, many millennials still experience anxiety related to their bowel movements. An impressive 80% of millennials and 83% of Gen Z report feeling anxious about pooping or experiencing stress-related changes in their bowel habits. This contrasts with 69% of Gen X and 50% of boomers.

Why Millennials Are Talking (and Worrying) About Their Poop More

Experts suggest that millennials’ openness and awareness play a significant role in their increased discussion of digestive health. Dr. Benjamin H. Levy III, a gastroenterologist, notes that millennials are better educated and more comfortable discussing GI symptoms than previous generations. This increased awareness may also lead them to seek medical care more readily than older generations.

Julie Stefanski, a registered dietitian, adds that older generations were less interested in preventative care. However, the rise in early-onset colorectal cancer has brought attention to the issue. People born around 1990 face double the risk of colon cancer and quadruple the risk of rectal cancer compared to those born around 1950. In response, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the recommended screening age from 50 to 45 in 2021.

Experts believe factors such as higher consumption of ultra-processed foods, rising obesity rates, increased alcohol consumption, and exposure to DNA-damaging bacteria could contribute to the heightened digestive issues among millennials. Additionally, awareness of the higher cancer risk in their age group may make them more vigilant about their health.

Your Gut Health Checklist: What to Do, What to Ditch, and When to See a Doctor

While millennials are proactive about their digestive health, they may also be “worried well,” according to Stefanski. The focus on gut health might lead them to misinterpret normal digestion as more serious problems.

Dr. Harmony Allison, an associate chief of gastroenterology, recommends examining your poop every time you go. While 60% of millennials look at their toilet paper after wiping, only 42% check the actual stool in the toilet bowl, the lowest percentage among all generations.

A healthy stool should be smooth, soft, and curl like a snake or sausage, passing easily without strain and appearing medium to dark brown. Red flags include pencil-thin stools, blood in the stool, or significant changes in consistency.

For management, experts recommend focusing on basics like limiting ultra-processed foods, eating whole foods, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and considering fiber supplements if advised by a doctor.

If serious symptoms persist, consulting a healthcare provider is essential. As Dr. Levy emphasizes, seeking care can help resolve issues quickly and restore a normal life.