Constellation with the No. 1 Bowel Movement Satisfaction Determined! Pisces and Aries Tie for First Place. Does "Stool Quality" Change Life Satisfaction? A Thorough Analysis of Bowel Movement Disparities by 12 Constellations, Revealing a Deep Correlation Between QOL and Stool in a Survey of 1,626 People ("Constipation, Frequency, Stool Observation, etc.")
A survey of 1,626 people by Amato Pharmaceutical and Unlog revealed that Pisces and Aries tied for the highest bowel movement satisfaction, despite Pisces having the lowest frequency. The study highlights a deep correlation between stool quality and Quality of Life (QOL), with those reporting good stool quality also reporting higher life satisfaction and motivation. It also found that while the importance of improving stool quality is understood, many struggle with implementation due to a lack of knowledge, suggesting that engaging methods like horoscopes could encourage better health habits.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: April 3, 2026 at 19:00
- 🔍 Collected: April 3, 2026 at 10:30
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 18, 2026 at 01:02 (350h 31m after Collected)
Amato Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Toyonaka City, Osaka Prefecture), which develops the Borraginol® brand and others, is conducting awareness surveys on stool from various angles with the aim of raising awareness among Japanese people about their bowel movements, in order to promote the importance of "improving stool quality" and realize a "society where people can comfortably pass stool both physically and mentally."
This time, as the third installment, we focused on the familiar theme of "constellations." We investigated how stool quality awareness differs among constellations. This survey used solar constellations derived from birth dates to multi-dimensionally analyze whether "stool quality," such as stool consistency, is related to QOL, such as life satisfaction and sense of purpose, and how it affects daily health, including bowel movement satisfaction and frequency.
This survey was supervised by Dr. Yosuke Ishii, director of Ouchi no Shinryojo Nakano and former gastrointestinal surgeon who serves as the chairman of the Japan Unko Society, and was conducted jointly with "Unlog," a gut health app boasting the largest number of users in Japan. Additionally, comments based on the results have been provided by Mr. SUGAR, an astrologer active in various media.
The survey results were compiled as "Unfographics," infographics with a stool motif, to deliver information in an easy-to-understand format for a wider audience.
[Background of Implementation]
Until now, bowel movements have often been discussed primarily in terms of whether they occur or not, and the value of stool itself as health information has not received sufficient attention. However, in recent years, research on the relationship between the intestinal environment, bowel movements, and health has advanced, and among academics and doctors, the idea of viewing stool as "brown jewels" and a "treasure trove of information reflecting the body's condition" is spreading, and expectations for stool itself are increasing.
In this context, the importance of focusing not only on "whether one is constipated" but also on "stool quality" has been pointed out. Stool quality refers to the overall quality of stool, including its hardness, color, and volume. In fact, it has been found that paying attention to stool quality offers various benefits, such as improving QOL and increasing the possibility of early detection of diseases.
On the other hand, for many consumers, stool quality is a "health indicator that is difficult to be aware of," and not many people are habitually conscious of it. To address this issue, Amato Pharmaceutical, which manufactures and sells Borraginol®, focused on the close relationship between constipation and hemorrhoids, and launched the "Stool Quality Awareness Project" in 2023 with the aim of raising awareness of "stool quality," which significantly affects the burden during defecation.
Through previous surveys, Amato Pharmaceutical has shown that being aware of stool quality can lead to easier daily life and higher satisfaction. However, not many people are able to continue "improving stool quality" as a "concrete action," and they believe that creating a mechanism to naturally promote awareness of stool quality in daily life is a challenge.
In this third installment, based on this background, we focused on making "stool quality" and "stool observation" more familiar and routine. We believe that creating opportunities to naturally reflect on stool quality in daily life, while valuing correct information, is important for establishing awareness of stool quality, and therefore conducted a survey using "horoscopes," a content familiar in daily life, as an entry point.
Through this survey, we aim to help consumers effortlessly pay attention to their stool quality and take the first step in reviewing their physical condition and lifestyle habits.
[Survey Overview]
Survey method: WEB questionnaire
Target audience: Men and women in their 20s to 60s nationwide who use the Unlog app
Number of valid responses: 1,626
Survey dates: March 3, 2026 - March 8, 2026
Survey organizer: Amato Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
*When publishing the contents of this release, please clearly state the source as "According to Amato Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. survey."
1. A New Discovery: More Frequent Bowel Movements Do Not Necessarily Mean Higher Bowel Movement Satisfaction
・When asked about "bowel movement satisfaction," which evaluates the feeling of relief during defecation, across all 12 constellations, Pisces and Aries tied for first place, followed by Capricorn in third place.
・The average weekly bowel movement frequency was highest for Virgo at 6.87 times, while the lowest was for Pisces, which ranked first in bowel movement satisfaction, at 6.05 times, resulting in a difference of 0.82 times.
・This result for Pisces revealed that more frequent bowel movements do not necessarily lead to higher bowel movement satisfaction, and that the number of bowel movements alone does not guarantee a feeling of relief.
(Doctor's Comment)
Bowel movements are related to lifestyle habits, including diet. What is very interesting about this survey result is that Pisces, which had the lowest average weekly bowel movement frequency, ranked first in bowel movement satisfaction, alongside Aries.
This fact suggests that what is important in bowel movements is not just the frequency of "whether it comes out or not," but the "satisfaction" of how comfortably it comes out. Instead of being overly concerned with just the number of times, paying attention to the consistency of one's stool and the feeling of relief during defecation seems to be a key point for improving quality of life.
2. Trends in "Constipation" by Constellation: Differences in Constipation Quality by Constellation
・The constellation with the highest percentage of people suffering from constipation was Aries at 73.4%. This was followed by Aquarius at 71.7% and Scorpio at 70.6%.
・On the other hand, when asked if they suffered from "chronic constipation" lasting for 6 months or more, Leo had the highest percentage at 37.6%.
・Furthermore, when asked if they suffered from "hardcore constipation" that had lasted for over 10 years, Sagittarius had the highest percentage at 38.5%, showing that the constellations differed depending on the quality of constipation problems.
3. "Bowel Movement Expense" Disparity:
Libra May Maintain Comfort Through Bowel Movement Investment
・When people suffering from constipation were asked about their "bowel movement expense" (money spent annually to improve bowel movements), the maximum reached an astonishing 1.1 million yen, with some people spending 100,000 yen more than the previous survey.
・Also, the average bowel movement expense for people suffering from constipation was 18,518 yen. This result shows a decrease of approximately 2,000 yen from the survey two years ago.
・By constellation, Libra spent the most on average at 35,204 yen, and this constellation was also ranked first as the "constellation with the fewest constipation problems." Capricorn, which ranked second in bowel movement expense, also ranked second as the "constellation with the fewest constipation problems," suggesting a possible correlation between higher constipation prevention expenses and fewer problems.
(Doctor's Comment)
The results of this survey made me realize once again that a great number of people suffer from constipation and that it is difficult to resolve.
Among them, it was very interesting that Libra and Capricorn, who invest in "bowel movement expenses" as a countermeasure, are also the constellations with the fewest constipation problems. This indicates that self-investment in care, tailored to one's constitution and the nature of their problems, may contribute to maintaining gut health. Constipation problems vary from person to person, but finding a suitable improvement method and committing to the results may lead to a sense of satisfaction and, consequently, a more comfortable daily life.
4. Among Stool Quality Awareness, "Stool Color" is Particularly Low
・Aries (86.3%) was the most conscious of at least one of the stool quality checkpoints recommended by doctors: "hardness," "volume," or "color."
・On the other hand, overall, the percentage of people who were conscious of "color" was only 28.7%, which is low compared to "volume" (64.6%) and "hardness" (60.3%), highlighting the current situation where correct knowledge about stool quality has not sufficiently permeated.
(Doctor's Comment)
While "color" and "consistency" are recommended checkpoints, it was revealed that only a very low 28.7% of people are conscious of "color."
Stool color is like a mirror reflecting the body's condition. We believe that spreading knowledge of "stool observation," which involves observing not only the shape and volume but also the color, is important for daily health management and early detection of diseases.
5. Deep Correlation Between Stool Quality and QOL: People with Good Stool Tend to Have Higher Life Satisfaction
・Based on the Bristol Stool Scale, when people with good and bad stool quality were asked about their life satisfaction, those who reported good stool quality answered that they had "a fulfilling life," "a sense of purpose," "are healthy," and "have high motivation for work."
・This result once again clearly showed a very deep correlation between stool quality and QOL (Quality of Life).
(Doctor's Comment)
From the survey results, it was found that there are differences in "life satisfaction" and "sense of purpose" depending on the quality of stool, suggesting a correlation with QOL and labor productivity.
There could be various reasons, but it might be that a high sense of affirmation, being able to think of one's stool as good, correlates with a good subjective sense of health. Also, it is conceivable that people who lead healthy lives daily actually have better stool quality.
In fact, many people who visit the clinic due to constipation or diarrhea often mention underlying psychological issues. Viewing the condition of one's stool as a barometer of one's mind and body is one approach.
*The Bristol Stool Scale (Bristol Stool Form Scale) is a global standard for stool that classifies the hardness and shape of stool into 7 stages. Hard stool due to constipation is BS (Bristol Stool Scale) 1, 2. Too soft stool due to diarrhea is BS6, 7. Ideal stool is considered to be BS3, 4, 5. (Source: Japanese Society of Gastroenterology related research group, Chronic Constipation Diagnosis and Treatment Research Group: Chronic Constipation Treatment Guidelines 2017: 2017. Lacy, B.E. et al.: Gastroenterology, 150: 1393, 2016.)
6. While Understanding the Importance of Improving Stool Quality, Only 30% Act on it Daily
The Top Reason for Not Doing So is "Don't Know How"
・"Improving stool quality" was chosen as a highly effective action to enhance QOL, but only 33.6% of people actually take action daily.
・Also, the most common reason for not being able to take action to improve stool quality was "I don't know what method suits me (34.8%)," followed by "I don't know how to improve stool quality (25.9%)."
・These results revealed the reality that while the importance of improving stool quality is understood, people are not able to translate it into concrete actions.
・Furthermore, in addition to advice from doctors and specialists (42.1%), "lucky actions from horoscopes" (38.2%) were also cited as triggers for health actions, suggesting the possibility that horoscopes could serve as an entry point for behavioral change.
(Doctor's Comment)
Even among Unlog users, who have high awareness of stool, the percentage of people who "take daily action" to improve stool quality is not high, revealing a gap between awareness and actual behavior.
Also, in the previous question, while a correlation between stool quality and QOL was suggested, it also became clear that many people do not correctly understand how to comfortably pass stool.
To lead a healthy life, including improving stool quality, it is necessary to review dietary habits, introduce exercise routines, ensure quality sleep, and maintain mental stability. To notice these changes, we recommend thinking about "poop PDCA," which involves recording and observing daily bowel movements and trying to find methods that suit you and can be continued without difficulty. If discomfort persists as a result of observation, consulting a doctor is also effective. In that case, please show them your bowel movement log.
In this survey, it was also an interesting result that "lucky actions from horoscopes" showed a certain influence as a trigger for health actions, which was comparable to advice from doctors. While advice from medical professionals tends to be perceived as "correct," sometimes as "orders" or "criticism," I felt that entertainment like horoscopes could provide an opportunity for those who have been less interested in health to pay attention to their stool quality and their own health.
Through this survey, I once again felt the importance of raising awareness to realize a society where people can lead healthy lives starting from appropriate bowel movement records. We will continue to work with Amato Pharmaceutical and Unlog to create an environment where everyone can effortlessly engage in stool observation and improvement.
Consideration
Dr. Yosuke Ishii, Director of Ouchi no Shinryojo Nakano / Chairman of Japan Unko Society
*Available for interviews and comments regarding this matter
In the third installment of the Stool Quality Awareness Project, in addition to the correlation between "stool quality" and QOL (Quality of Life) found so far, I initially hesitated when I heard the idea of conducting a survey using the familiar theme of "constellations" to make "stool observation" more routine for more people. However, I reconsidered, thinking that it was an interesting theme, as I myself tend to follow lucky items from horoscopes.
This survey allowed us to feel the potential relationship between stool quality and QOL, where people with good bowel movements strongly feel "life satisfaction" and "a sense of purpose."
Also, it became clear that "satisfying stool quality" and a feeling of relief are more directly connected than just the number of bowel movements (whether it comes out or not), as Pisces, with fewer bowel movements, ranked first in satisfaction. On the other hand, while the importance of improving stool quality is understood, only about 30% of people actually take daily action, highlighting the problem that they don't know what methods suit them.
The challenge of previous awareness activities was that medical "correctness" alone was difficult to lead to behavioral change. However, this survey's finding that "lucky actions from horoscopes" are as influential as doctors' advice in triggering action was very suggestive, and it gave me, as a doctor, an opportunity to reflect.
For people who have not been conscious of their own stool until now, it may be difficult to suddenly tell them to "observe their stool." However, if there is an opportunity to lightly pay attention to one's stool (stool quality), like checking a morning horoscope, that is a definite first step in health management.
I hope that by enjoying the characteristics of each constellation in this survey, people will acquire the ability to observe their stool, which is a mirror reflecting their physical condition. We will continue to work with Amato Pharmaceutical and Unlog to realize a society where everyone can effortlessly practice healthy bowel habits.
[Profile of Dr. Yosuke Ishii] Director of Ouchi no Shinryojo Nakano / Chairman of Japan Unko Society
After losing his large intestine at the age of 19 due to illness, he resolved to study medicine at Kochi University at 21. Later, while performing surgeries as a gastrointestinal surgeon, he developed and supervised the smartphone game "Un-Kore" to spread knowledge about colorectal cancer, and established the "Japan Unko Society."
After serving as a medical technical official at the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, he has expanded his field to enhance out-of-hospital medical care, focusing on home medical care, while collaborating with companies to create products and operate the healthcare community SHIP. He received the Inno-vation 2019 Disruptive Challenge Award.
Astrologer / Astrologist Mr. SUGAR
Through this survey, I find it very interesting that the data visually confirmed that horoscopes encourage many people to take concrete steps.
Horoscopes are essentially a mirror that helps us pay attention to our own tendencies and rhythms. The same can be said for "stool," which is an important sign emitted by the body, not just our state of mind.
The casualness of horoscopes, which makes people think, "Maybe I'll be conscious of this today," should encourage the habit of paying attention to daily "stool quality," and as a result, it should also serve as an entry point for reviewing one's life and, if necessary, connecting with medical care or expert advice. Horoscopes are not a substitute for medical treatment, but I believe they can function as an initial trigger for health actions.
[Profile of Mr. SUGAR] Astrologer / Astrologist SUGAR
In addition to writing, he is active in various fields, including holding courses at Asahi Culture Center, dialogue events with different industries, and media appearances. In recent years, he has been researching the intersection of Japanese culture and astrology, such as kigo (seasonal words), the 24 solar terms, and Sabian Symbols.
Official HP: http://astro-ragus.com
Mr. Hisashi Miyazaki, President and CEO, Amato Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
We, Amato Pharmaceutical, have been addressing the concerns of many people regarding bowel movements through hemorrhoid medications.
In doing so, we have keenly realized how closely hemorrhoids and stool conditions are related. In fact, many proctologists point out that hard stools and diarrhea are important factors causing hemorrhoids, and controlling stool condition (stool quality) is extremely important for maintaining anal health and, by extension, daily quality of life (QOL).
Against this background, we have been promoting the "Stool Quality Improvement Project" with Dr. Yosuke Ishii and Unlog, continuously disseminating the importance of being aware of stool quality itself.
Through this survey, the data once again showed that people with good stool quality have higher "life satisfaction" and "sense of purpose," which reaffirmed the significance of our activities.
On the other hand, even though the importance is understood, the difficulty of continuously being aware of it in daily life and translating it into concrete actions has also become apparent as a challenge. Therefore, in this third installment, we deliberately chose "horoscopes," a familiar and routine content, as an entry point.
We hope that this "constellation-based survey" will provide an opportunity for people to naturally pay attention to their stool condition, with the same casualness as checking their morning horoscope. By establishing stool observation not as something to "make an effort to do" but as a "habit integrated into daily life," we will continue our awareness activities with the aim of realizing a society where as many people as possible can live comfortably both physically and mentally.
New Service: "Sukkiri Fortune-telling" Developed from the Perspective of "Horoscope x Stool Quality Check"
Regarding "Sukkiri Fortune-telling"
"Sukkiri Fortune-telling" is a new feature implemented within "Unlog," Japan's largest gut health app, as the third installment of the "Stool Quality Improvement Project" promoted by Amato Pharmaceutical since 2023. By using the familiar "horoscope" as an entry point, in addition to medical awareness, it aims to transform "stool observation" (observing stool), which is fundamental to health management, into a more accessible habit.
*Please check this press release for details URL: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000016.000125727.html
About Amato Pharmaceutical
Amato Pharmaceutical is a long-established pharmaceutical company with over 200 years of history, focusing on hemorrhoid remedies such as "Borraginol®," and practicing activities that prioritize "patients' lives and health."
Recently, the company launched its own e-commerce site and is actively developing new products that leverage its knowledge in the hemorrhoid field, such as "Boracare® Balance with Lactic Acid Bacteria," "Borasoft® Protect Balm," and "Borraginol® Smooth Constipation Medicine," which are the first new products in approximately 30 years.
[Company Overview]
Company Name: Amato Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
Location: Senri Asahi Hankyu Building, 1-5-3 Shin-Senri Higashi-machi, Toyonaka City, Osaka
Established: October 11, 1921
Business: Manufacturing and sales of pharmaceuticals
Official Website: https://www.amato.co.jp/
About Unlog
A stool venture company that aims to "revolutionize comfort!" and solve social issues such as extending healthy life expectancy and curbing medical expenses from the toilet.
The company primarily operates "Unlog," a gut health app that supports health management through "stool observation" and "gut activity" to improve the intestinal environment.
[Contact Information]
Borraginol Smooth PR Representative (within Onyomi Inc.)
TEL: 050-1725-2585 Mail: amato-pr@onyomi.jp