Because it is a time at which most people feel the urge to defecate, you should encourage patients to toilet:

Encouraging patients to use the toilet after breakfast can be particularly effective for several reasons. Breakfast stimulates the digestive system, which can trigger the gastrocolic reflex, a natural response that increases the urge to defecate after eating. This response is especially significant in many people, as the body naturally seeks to empty the bowels following the intake of food.

Timing toilet needs around breakfast helps establish a routine for patients, making it easier for them to anticipate their needs and improve bowel regularity. In settings like nursing homes or care facilities, having a consistent schedule around meal times can also enhance residents' comfort and dignity.

In contrast, suggesting other times—such as before breakfast, before going to sleep, or after exercise—may not align as well with the natural biological rhythms that encourage regular bowel movements. Each of these alternatives might not coincide with the natural urge due to various factors, including the timing of meals and the body's physiological responses.