A surprising new study suggests that a simple pre-event bathroom trip could significantly improve mental and physical performance. Researchers in Taiwan found that triathletes who emptied their bowels before taking a cognitive test scored higher than those who did not, suggesting that the body can allocate more energy to brain function and athletic performance after a trip to the restroom.
Pre-race bathroom stop improves cognitive function
The study involved 13 triathletes who were asked to complete the Stroop test, a widely used cognitive assessment in which words appear in mismatched colors—such as the word “blue” printed in red ink—and participants must correctly identify the color rather than the word itself.
Researchers observed that participants who relieved themselves before taking the test performed significantly better than those who had not. The findings suggest that digestion and waste retention may subtly impact cognitive processing and mental sharpness.
“Clearing the digestive system before a high-focus task may allow the body to redirect energy toward brain function,” the study’s authors noted.
How digestion affects energy allocation
The body’s energy distribution plays a critical role in performance, particularly in endurance sports and mental tasks. Experts believe that when the digestive system is actively processing food, it requires a substantial amount of blood flow and energy, which could otherwise be used for concentration and physical exertion.
“Avoiding unnecessary digestive burdens before an exam or competition may give the body a slight physiological advantage,” said a leading nutritionist. “This study reinforces why many athletes and high performers develop pre-event rituals, including ensuring their digestive system is cleared.”
Implications for athletes and test-takers
While the study was conducted on a small group of triathletes, researchers believe the findings may extend to students, professionals, and competitors in various disciplines. From academic exams to endurance races, ensuring the body is in an optimal physiological state could be a simple yet effective strategy to enhance performance.
Experts recommend individuals pay attention to their digestive habits before major events, allowing enough time to use the restroom before engaging in activities that require high cognitive or physical performance.
Though additional research is needed to fully understand the biological mechanisms behind this phenomenon, the study highlights an often-overlooked factor in optimizing human performance.
“Sometimes, the smallest adjustments in daily habits can yield noticeable benefits,” one researcher stated. “This is an area worth further exploration, particularly for those looking for a competitive edge.”
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.