The term ‘ghost poop’ may sound like something related to a Halloween story, but there is nothing supernatural about it. There are no scary scenes (or famous Halloween candies) here – just a quirky name for a common bathroom experience, which surprisingly hints that your tummy might be in top shape.

What exactly is ghost poop?

Ghost poop, also known as phantom poop, refers to the feeling of having a bowel movement, but without any trace. Yes it does. Sometimes, there is not even any residue on the toilet paper, adding to the confusion. But is this normal and easy to achieve?

Dr Narendra Singhla, principal consultant, internal medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, explains, “Ghost stool refers to the sensation of defecating in the toilet without seeing the stool. This can happen if the stool is too light or breaks apart and spreads in the water. Sometimes, people also use this term to describe a bowel movement that feels clean and does not require wiping. Basically, it feels like you’ve gone to the bathroom, but there’s no visual evidence left behind.”

This concept recently took off on TikTok.

Is this a health concern?

The reason ghost feces disappear without a trace is that they are actually quite dense. Kate Scarlata, a Boston-based dietitian and gut health expert, explained in an interview that unlike floating stool, which can be bouncy due to excess gas or problems digesting carbs or fat, ghost stool is full of fiber. Self magazine.

She further explains that this extra weight makes them prone to sinking and disappearing. Plus, their compact shape indicates a healthy balance of water content, she adds.

“Ghost stool does not generally indicate a poor bowel condition. In fact, sometimes it can indicate that your digestive system is working well, especially if you’re experiencing smooth, easy-to-pass stools,” says Dr. Singhala.

Is this a common thing?

Ghost poop is more common than you might think. Many people experience this at one time or another, and it’s usually nothing to worry about.

“This can happen when the stool is soft, loose or well-formed, making it easier to pass a bowel movement without much residue or the need for cleaning. This is usually a sign that your bowel movements are efficient and not associated with any health problems,” says Dr. Singhala.

According to experts, it’s normal to experience ghost stools from time to time, but if it happens frequently, it can be influenced by factors like your diet, hydration levels or even your posture while using the toilet. It is possible

when to see a doctor

Although ghost stools are usually nothing to be alarmed about, if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as bloating, discomfort or changes in bowel habits, it may be worth consulting a doctor to rule out any underlying digestive issues. Could.

“If you regularly feel like you need to have a bowel movement, but you’re not able to do so, or you’re just farting, it may be time to see a doctor. “While this may be something as normal as excess gas in the digestive tract, this type of phantom stool may be a sign of a health problem,” Dr. Rabia de Latour, a gastroenterologist at NYU Langone Health, said in an interview. Today,

She explains that these sensations may result from inflammation in the rectum, which can interfere with signaling between nerves and the brain.

It’s also important to note that although ghost stools are common, not experiencing them is not necessarily a sign of a problem. So, there is no need to worry if the commode doesn’t have “magic”.

there is nothing to fear here

TikTok’s fascination with ghost poop is strangely relatable—after all, who doesn’t celebrate a clean, seamless bathroom experience? Although this idea may seem a little strange, there is no need to worry.

Dr. Mark Iwanicki, a naturopath, suggests that if you’re aiming for an easier, smoother bowel movement, “try psyllium husk powder or capsules.” He adds, “However, always take supplements with plenty of water, as they can cause constipation if you are not hydrated.”