Can rubbing fists really trigger a bowel movement? Gastroenterologist reacts

You may have came across this hack on TikTok or other social media platforms, where people are talking about how rubbing fists made them poop. Netizens are vouching that it works. It has apparently become the #1 tip to relieve constipation. But does it really work?

Dr. Joseph Salhab, a Florida-based gastroenterologist, has responded to this hack that’s growing popular on TikTok. What does he think about it? Let’s find out if it's cap or no cap! Take a look.

Before we dive into the viral hack, it's important to understand what constipation actually means. Constipation is a condition where a person has difficulty passing stool. The bowel movements become less frequent, resulting in stools that can be hard, dry, and difficult to pass. Having fewer than three bowel movements per week, difficulty passing stool, straining when passing stool, passing less stool than usual, or lumpy, dry, or hard stool can be considered signs of constipation.

Popularized by TikTok user Empirical Grace Acupuncture, the viral hack only takes a few seconds. Simply make two fists and rub them together, thumb to thumb, for a “couple of minutes, a couple of times a day.” The video claims that things will get moving after this.

Well, the netizens are calling it legit, but is it though? In avideoshared on Instagram, Dr. Salhab dissected the method and explained why it might be working for some. “We know there’s a strong mind-gut connection, powerful enough in some cases to stimulate the intestines. Why this could happen exactly it’s unclear. While acupuncture has shown some benefit in irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C), especially for relieving abdominal pain and improving overall symptoms, the theory that pressure points or reflexology can trigger a bowel movement is unproven,” the gastroenterologist said.

He added, “Still, the act of rubbing your fists may serve as a calming, focused ritual. That alone could help the body relax in a way that supports digestion. Or it might just be placebo. Belief is powerful. If someone expects it to work and feels more at ease while doing it, they might actually experience a bowel movement — not because of the motion, but because the brain and gut are working together.”

Making some lifestyle changes can help relieve constipation. These include:

• Increase dietary fiber. Aim for 25-30 grams of fiber daily.

• Foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes promote regular bowel movements.

• Hydration is important.

• Physical activity also supports healthy digestion.

• Fruits such as kiwi, pears, apples, papaya, and prunes have natural laxative effects. Adding them to your diet can help.