The Phenomenon Behind The Urge To Use The Bathroom In Certain Stores

Have you ever found yourself strolling through your favorite store, only to be suddenly struck by the need to visit the bathroom? If so, you're not alone. In a recent viral video, Dr. Joseph Salhab, also known as "The Stomach Doc," shed light on this surprisingly common experience and even gave it a name.

Dr. Salhab, a board-certified gastroenterologist based in Davenport, Florida, sparked a conversation among his 2 million social media followers by asking if they've ever felt the urge to poop while shopping. The response was overwhelming, with comments flooding in from people sharing their own experiences.

From quips about "Marshalls moments" to dubbing it a "Lowe's Moment," individuals resonated with the phenomenon, turning Dr. Salhab's video into his most viral one yet, garnering over 20 million views and 50,000 comments.

But what exactly is the "Mariko Aoki" phenomenon? Named after a personal story shared in a Japanese magazine by Mariko Aoki in 1985, it describes the sudden urge to use the restroom upon entering a bookstore. However, Dr. Salhab notes that this phenomenon isn't exclusive to bookstores; it extends to various retail environments.

While there isn't a definitive scientific explanation for why this happens, experts like Dr. Salhab and Dr. Kyle Staller suggest several factors at play. Familiar smells within stores can trigger reactions in some individuals, while others may find the calm atmosphere conducive to the need to relieve themselves. Conversely, the excitement or stress of shopping might lead to an adrenaline response, prompting the urge.

Dr. Staller, a gastroenterologist and assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, emphasizes the intricate connection between the brain and the gut. While the colon is continually in motion, it becomes actively involved at specific times, influenced by nervous system pathways.

Ultimately, the "Mariko Aoki" phenomenon highlights the complex interplay between our emotional states and bodily functions. So, the next time you feel the urge to visit the restroom while perusing the aisles, know that you're experiencing a phenomenon shared by many—a curious quirk of human physiology that transcends cultures and continents.

Source: Today

Photo: Getty


Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content