When it comes to living a long and simple life, Indian traditions seem to have it all figured out. Don’t believe us? Then hear what celebrity macrobiotic coach Dr Shilpa Arora is suggesting: that returning to the age-old Indian toilet system might be the key to unlocking good health and a longer lifespan.
During a conversation with host Bishal Pall on The Indians Podcast, Dr Arora said that back in the day, houses used to have a bathroom far away and people used to have to walk to use the loo. “That would give them a walking exercise first. Next, when you are sitting down, your leg muscles get worked. You would not get PCOD, your periods would regularise, and your organs would begin healing. We have forgotten all this now,” she elaborated.
Is it true?
Anadi Sharma, a yoga and alternative healer, said that the way we use toilets actually changes how the body works. “Western toilets are like sitting on a chair, which feels easy, especially if someone has knee pain. When you sit on a Western toilet, the seat tends to stay slightly bent, so you need to push down harder. That extra strain daily can cause issues like constipation or piles,” he told indianexpress.com.
The risks involved
Dr Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan, consultant surgical gastroenterologist at Fortis Hospitals, says, “Yes, prolonged sitting on the toilet can increase the risk of developing piles, especially when it becomes a habitual part of bathroom behaviour. When someone sits for an extended period, it places sustained pressure on the veins in the rectal and anal area. This pressure can cause these veins to swell, potentially leading to haemorrhoids over time.”
He adds that using a phone often extends the duration a person spends in the restroom unnecessarily. What should be a brief activity turns into a prolonged sitting session because the phone becomes a distraction. Over time, this pattern can contribute to venous congestion and exacerbate pre-existing conditions, such as chronic constipation or straining, both of which are recognised risk factors for haemorrhoids.
Spending too long on toilets can give you piles (Source: Freepik)
“Spending long periods in moist environments like bathrooms can also lead to multiple health issues, many of which people don’t immediately associate with the habit,” said Dr Sambit Kumar Bhuyan, consultant gastroenterologist at Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneswar. “From skin infections to urinary problems, prolonged sitting in a humid setting, especially on the toilet, is not without risk.”
Dr Sai Lahari Rachumallu, associate consultant, dermatology, at the same hospital, said, “Intertrigo — inflammation between skin folds caused by friction and sweat — is common in such settings. So are fungal infections, contact dermatitis, folliculitis, and urinary tract infections.”
Story continues below this ad
“A humid, moist environment is ideal for microbes to thrive, and your bathroom can quickly become a breeding ground if you’re not cautious. Prolonged sitting, especially in tight or wet clothes, may seem harmless but can snowball into skin infections or urinary issues,” he said.
Why are Indian toilets better?
Indian toilets don’t have a seat, and you squat on the floor. It is hard, but Sharma said that the position is actually better for the body. “On Indian seats, squatting makes the passage straighter, so everything comes out more smoothly without much effort,” he added. While he could not comment on the impact on women’s reproductive health, according to him, using the Indian toilet is like a small workout every day. Squatting keeps your legs and hips moving, and people who do it daily usually stay more flexible as they get older.
“Hygiene is different, too. As there’s no seat, you don’t share it with others, cleaning is simpler, and water is used more directly, often resulting in less waste. So the real benefits are fewer stomach troubles, stronger joints and cleaner habits. Over the years, that means staying healthier and stronger in old age,” he concluded.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.