Why Does My Stool Form into Spherical Shapes?

The phenomenon of stool being formed into small, hard balls is primarily characterized by dry and difficult-to-pass stool. There are numerous reasons for this, including insufficient beneficial bacteria in the intestines, a lack of dietary fiber, inadequate water intake, sedentary lifestyle with insufficient exercise, poor bowel habits, excessive fatigue, stress, and aging. It is recommended to understand the primary causes and address them accordingly based on individual circumstances.

Dry and hard stool is primarily due to a lack of moisture in the stool, resulting in the formation of small balls. When this condition is observed, it is important to actively replenish fluids by drinking more water to prevent excessive dryness in the body and normalize bowel movements.

1. Insufficient Beneficial Bacteria in the Intestines: After taking antibiotics or other medications, the beneficial bacteria in the intestines may be disrupted, leading to indigestion and constipation.
2. Lack of Dietary Fiber: Irregular eating habits, eating out frequently, and insufficient intake of balanced nutrition, especially dietary fiber, can lead to constipation.
3. Insufficient Water Intake: Inadequate water intake can cause dryness in the intestines, making it difficult to expel bowel contents. Even after replenishing fluids, some individuals may not see improvement in constipation issues due to incorrect drinking habits. It is recommended to drink more water, especially in the morning after waking up.
4. Sedentary Lifestyle with Insufficient Exercise: Lack of physical activity and prolonged sitting can lead to relaxation and degeneration of intestinal muscles, reducing their contractile function. This is particularly common in women who engage in sedentary work.
5. Poor Bowel Habits: Busy schedules, hectic work environments, or ignoring the urge to defecate can lead to delayed bowel movements, causing the nerves in the rectum to become dulled and leading to habitual constipation.
6. Excessive Fatigue and Stress: Excessive fatigue and stress can suppress intestinal motility and digestive enzyme secretion, leading to indigestion and constipation.
7. Aging: As people age, the intestinal organs begin to degenerate, leading to dry and hard stool.

1. Drink a glass of warm water or lightly salted water in the morning to increase water content in the digestive tract and facilitate bowel movements.
2. Consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods (such as leek, celery, spinach) while avoiding spicy and greasy foods. Drinking water or honey water, as well as consuming foods like dates, sesame seeds, and walnuts, can help lubricate the intestines and promote bowel movements.
3. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing and engage in physical activity every hour. Regular exercise can improve gastrointestinal motility and strengthen abdominal and pelvic muscles, thereby helping to maintain regular bowel movements.
4. For severe constipation, consider taking mild laxatives such as honey, rhubarb, or using suppositories or glycerin enemas.
5. Develop a regular eating schedule, avoid overeating, and incorporate more whole grains and fewer processed foods into your diet.