Recommended Laxatives for Weight Loss
One of the most popular weight loss methods of today is actually using laxatives. Laxatives for weight loss are chosen by many weight loss dieters because they believe that it actually is the fastest and safest way of losing weight. It is actually made for people who have problems with constipation so from this, we know that laxatives are not really originally made for the purpose of losing weight.
People who want to lose weight will do just about anything to achieve that ideal weight. Some won’t even mind using it even if it means risking one’s health so before you start thinking of using this, you must first find out what laxatives for weight loss are and how it works as it also has side effects that you must be aware of.
What are Laxatives?
Laxative actually comes from a Latin word laxare which literally means ‘to loosen’. Laxatives have been around since 1386 AD according to a medical dictionary, Medilexicon, laxatives are a mild, cleansing remedy that moves the bowel without causing discomfort. Today, laxatives for weight loss are becoming popular among people wanting to lose weight.
Recommended Laxatives for Weight Loss
- Fiber
This is the best laxative for weight loss and is the safest too because it is a bulk producing agent. This means that it contains loads of dietary fiber. This type of laxative is slow acting so give it around 12 to 36 hours to work. It works by bulking up stool making the intestines contract thus causing bowel movement. Remember to drink lots of water when taking laxatives.
- Stool softeners
This type of laxative causes the stool to soften allowing it for easier passage. It works by lubricating the walls of the intestine and coats the stool to soften using a water-resistant film allowing for smooth passage of the stool. This will work within 12 to 48 hours. There are stool softener laxatives that are to be consumed along with liquids but they should not be taken at least 2-3 hours after having a meal.
- Stimulant Laxatives
These kind of laxatives are made of herbs that causes the muscles to contract. This works much faster compared to the other laxatives mentioned earlier—all it takes is a few hours for it to take effect. They are not ideal for long term usage because it can damage the intestinal lining so extra precaution is needed and doctor consultation is recommended.
This type of laxative gets water to get drawn to the large intestine which causes the stool to bulk up leading to contractions. As for its pace, it may take a few hours to 48 hours for it to work. Just a little warning, this type of laxative may cause dehydration and may affect the kidneys.
Side Effects of Laxatives for Weight Loss
- Nausea
- Water retention
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
- Chronic diarrhea
- Bloating
- Weakening and softening of bones (osteomalacia)
- Stomach cramps
- Rectal bleeding
- Electrolyte disorder
There are dieters out there that tend to be very careless when it comes to choosing the right technique to losing weight and this kind of attitude may be dangerous to one’s health. That is why weight loss techniques such as using laxatives are not really recommended because of the potential harm it may bring to a person’s health. It is highly advised that before you start using it, you first seek the opinion of your physician as not everyone is legible to use this type of weight loss regimen.
