A three-part framework for digestion may help explain why some people continue to struggle with symptoms like constipation, bloating, or discomfort despite making dietary changes. Gastroenterologist Dr. Trisha Pasricha highlights what she calls the “three Ps” of bowel health: propulsion, pliability, and pelvic floor function.
Propulsion refers to the body’s natural contractions that move stool through the colon, while pliability focuses on stool softness, which depends on hydration and fiber intake. The third factor, pelvic floor function, involves the muscles that control the release of stool, which can tighten instead of relax if a person strains too often.
Experts say all three factors must work together for healthy digestion, and addressing just one — such as increasing fiber — may not resolve symptoms. Understanding how these systems interact could help people better identify the root cause of their digestive issues and improve bowel health over time.
SOURCE:
CNN, April 7, 2026