Bowel movement frequency varies person-to-person, and there is no set or typical number. Typically, having a bowel movement between three times a day and three times a week is considered normal. In a survey by Healthline, over 2,000 people participated and almost half of them reported pooping once a day, while 28% reported going twice a day. Merely 5.6% claimed to go once or twice weekly. The majority of people have a consistent bowel routine, defecating around the same number of times per day and at a comparable time of day.
As long as someone’s poop is soft, regular, and easy to pass, frequent bowel movements are nothing to worry about. Normally, if someone has less than three bowel movements in a week, doctors diagnose constipation. To be more regular, a well-balanced diet with adequate fiber and more fluids can help. If bowel changes last longer than 1-2 weeks, see a doctor. Other concerning symptoms include blood in the stool, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. Despite this, the gut is fond of a fixed routine, and any alterations to bowel habits should be permanent. Without maintaining the virtuous lifestyle for their microbiome, the benefits of seven days will be lost. Fewer lifestyle changes and habits are better, as long as they can be sustained.
Pooping: Frequency, normal amounts, and when to see a doctor (medicalnewstoday.com)
How Many Times Should You Poop a Day: Factors and Frequency (healthline.com)