Bidets: A Healthier and More Sustainable Alternative to Toilet Paper
In the United States, toilet paper is the norm when it comes to personal hygiene. However, there is a growing movement advocating for the adoption of bidets as a more hygienic and environmentally friendly alternative. Bidets are devices that spray water to clean your behind after using the toilet.
The Benefits of Using Bidets
There are numerous benefits to using bidets over toilet paper. These include:
- Improved hygiene: Bidets provide a more thorough clean than toilet paper, as they remove fecal matter and bacteria more effectively. This can help to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other health problems.
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Reduced risk of hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can cause pain, bleeding, and itching. Using toilet paper can irritate the delicate skin in the anal area and make hemorrhoids worse. Bidets, on the other hand, are gentle and soothing, and can help to prevent and treat hemorrhoids.
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Environmental sustainability: Toilet paper production is a major contributor to deforestation. Bidets, on the other hand, use water, which is a renewable resource.
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Comfort: Bidets are more comfortable to use than toilet paper, especially for people with sensitive skin or hemorrhoids.
The Cons of Using Toilet Paper
While toilet paper is convenient, it has several drawbacks:
- Poor hygiene: Toilet paper can leave fecal matter and bacteria on the skin, which can lead to infections.
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Risk of hemorrhoids: As mentioned above, using toilet paper can irritate the delicate skin in the anal area and make hemorrhoids worse.
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Environmental impact: Toilet paper production is a major contributor to deforestation.
The Rise of Hemorrhoids in America
Hemorrhoids are a common problem in the United States, affecting an estimated 10 million people each year. The incidence of hemorrhoids is increasing, and some experts believe that this is due to our reliance on toilet paper.
Portable Bidets: A Convenient Option
For people who are not ready to install a bidet in their home, there are portable bidets available. Portable bidets are small, handheld devices that can be filled with water and used to clean your behind after using the toilet.
Making the Switch to Bidets
If you are considering making the switch to a bidet, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
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There are different types of bidets available: There are attachment bidets that fit onto your existing toilet, and there are also standalone bidets.
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Bidets can be expensive: However, there are a variety of bidets available at different price points.
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It may take some time to get used to using a bidet: However, once you get used to it, you will find that it is a more hygienic and comfortable way to clean yourself.
Conclusion
Bidets are a more hygienic, environmentally friendly, and comfortable alternative to toilet paper. If you are looking for a way to improve your personal hygiene and reduce your environmental impact, I encourage you to consider making the switch to a bidet.