Because no one should start their day feeling full of 💩
Let’s be honest—there are few things as satisfying as that first glorious morning poop. If you’re over 40 (like me), a nurse (also me), and obsessed with skin, gut health, and all things digestive, then you know: regular poops are a form of self-care.
Over my 22 years as a nurse—and especially as a wound and ostomy care specialist—I’ve had a front-row seat to all kinds of gut drama. And guess what? A lot of it could be greatly improved by a solid routine, some magnesium magic, and a little TLC (tender loving care) for your gut motility.
So here’s my favorite gut routine, nurse-tested and life-approved.
💊 First Up: Why Magnesium
Magnesium isn’t just for sore muscles or leg cramps at 2 a.m. It’s a gut health powerhouse. Think of it as the chill friend who helps your intestines move things along without drama.
Types of Magnesium (Because It’s Not All the Same):
- Magnesium Citrate – Great for promoting bowel movements. Perfect if you’re feeling a little… backed up.
- Magnesium Glycinate – Gentle and calming. Supports relaxation and sleep but also helps the bowels over time.
- Magnesium Oxide – Less absorbable but draws water into the colon (hello, softer stools!).
🔍 Nurse Tip: Always start low and go slow. Too much and you’ll go from “constipated” to “clear-out-the-room” real fast.
⏰ Timing is Everything
Morning poops are more than convenient—they’re biologically ideal. Your gut is most active after waking, especially after food hits your stomach. This is called the gastrocolic reflex—a fancy way of saying: “Your colon wants to get moving once breakfast arrives.”
My Morning Gut Routine:
- Hydrate Like You Mean It
First thing: big glass of warm water with lemon. Bonus points if you add a pinch of sea salt or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
💧 Hydration = happy bowels. - Magnesium (the night before!)
I take my magnesium glycinate or citrate before bed so my colon can wake up ready to rock. - Move It, Don’t Lose It
Light stretching or a walk can help stimulate motility. Sometimes just standing in front of your coffee machine counts. - Fiber + Fat Breakfast Combo
Think oats + chia + nut butter OR avocado toast with seeds. This combo wakes up the gut and your skin. - Deep Breaths, No Rushing
Stress shuts digestion down. Take a minute. Sit down. Poop in peace.
🧠 Gut Motility & Your Skin? Oh Yes.
Here’s where my skincare nerd side comes out: When your gut is slow, your skin shows it. Constipation leads to toxin build-up, and your body will try to detox however it can—including your face. Hello breakouts, dullness, and inflamed skin.
Good gut flow = glowing skin. It’s that simple.
💩 Stool Goals
You want a smooth, soft, easy-to-pass sausage. (Yes, I said it.)
✅ Not too hard
✅ Not too loose
✅ Ideally in the morning
✅ Once or twice a day
If you’re skipping days, pushing too hard, or living in the land of rabbit pellets, it’s time to rethink your gut routine.
Final Thought From This Poop-Obsessed Nurse:
Magnesium might not be glamorous, but it works. Pair it with hydration, movement, and mindful meals, and you’ll be amazed what your gut—and your skin—can do. Don’t wait until things get sluggish to start caring about motility.
Because, let’s be real: You deserve better than coffee, stress, and crossed fingers.
Your morning poop is a sacred ritual. Protect it at all costs.
