Bowel transit time

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Lower digestive anatomy

The time it takes for the food that is eaten to make the journey from the mouth to the anus is known as the bowel transit time. The type of diet affects the bowel transit time. When many foods that have a lot of fiber (whole grains, vegetables, and fruits) are eaten, a more rapid transit time and a heavier, bulkier stool occurs.

You swallow 2 gelatin capsules filled with carmine red or another food marker with a meal. Then you observe your bowel movements and record how long it takes after the capsules are swallowed until the dye first appears. Keep track of how long it takes for the marker to disappear from the stools.

There are usually no special preparations, however you should follow any diet or other directions from the health care provider.

Swallowing the gelatin capsules is the only feeling associated with the test.

The test offers a way to become more aware of the bowel function. The person can record improvement of transit times as fiber is introduced into the diet.

Review Date: 08/02/2005
Reviewed By: Courtney W. Houchen, M.D., Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.