In "Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal," Mary Roach discusses an unusual but serious risk associated with defecation: pulmonary embolism. This condition can occur when a blood clot, previously lodged in a major blood vessel, becomes dislodged as the individual relaxes during a bowel movement. The sudden surge of blood flow can lead to this dangerous situation, which may result in sudden death.
Roach highlights the intriguing connection between everyday bodily...