There is no denying that doomscrolling in the toilet has become a global habit. People, across cultures, spend hours, sitting on the toilet seat. However, not many realise that it could prove detrimental to their health to the extent of causing haemorrhoids or colon cancer. Average Time In Toilet Has Stretched To Over 10 MinsIn today's time, this habit has extended from the usual 3-5 minutes spent in the toilet to 15 minutes or more, depending upon the amount of content consumed. Now, health experts have warned against it. Dr Lai Zhu, a colorectal surgeon at the University of Texas reportedly said that such a habit can increase the risk of haemorrhoids and weakened pelvic muscles. To note, haemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins in the anus and lower rectum that can cause discomfort. There are scientific reasons too behind this. When you sit on the open oval-shaped toilet seat, it exerts pressure on the hips, while gravity pulls the lower body downwards. This increased pressure affects blood circulation and more blood flows to the lower part of the body. As a result, the blood vessels around anus and lower rectum enlarge and fill with blood, elevating the risk of haemorrhoids. What To Do If Defecation Is Taking TimeIf defecation is proving difficult or the time is exceeding over 10 mins, experts suggest taking a short walk. Movement can stimulate intestinal muscles and aid digestion. Moreover, drinking large amounts of water and consuming high-fibre food like cucumber, oats and beans are also reccomend for regular bowel movements. According to National Academy of Medicine, an average person's daily water intake of 2.7 to 3.7 litres. The US Department of Agriculture suggests 14 grams of fibre per 1,000 calories consumed. Fibre and water soften stool, facilitating easier passage.Why Sitting and Scrolling Videos Is Harmful?While experts don’t yet have definitive studies specifically linking phone use on the toilet to hemorrhoids or other digestive issues, they agree that prolonged sitting itself is a risk factor. Experts explain that the problem isn’t necessarily the phone, but rather the extended amount of time people end up spending on the toilet because of it. Engrossed in a social media feed or a news article, we tend to linger far longer than the necessary few minutes required for a bowel movement. Over time, this habit of prolonged sitting can lead to hemorrhoid issues.Dr Sethi and other health experts suggest that spending anywhere from 1 to 15 minutes on the toilet should suffice. Anything beyond that might be an indication of constipation or simply a sign that you’re spending too much time there. Setting a timer may help if you’re someone who tends to lose track of time with your phone in hand. The goal is to avoid sitting, straining, and scrolling unnecessarily.