Fact Versus Fiction: Laxatives

Laxative use should be limited to:

-Those who have only occasional episodes of mild constipation. -Those who need laxatives to counteract a short-term constipating medication. -Those who need to avoid straining (e.g. angina sufferers).Those with an anal condition which needs soft stools for the healing period (for example an anal fissure or bleeding hemorrhoids). -Those undergoing a medical or surgical procedure. -Those who are bedridden.

Possible Laxative Complications:

Long-term laxative results in progressive reduced response, and the need for higher doses. Laxatives can also lead to significant loss of minerals from the bowel, and long-term use can result in a chemical imbalance.

Some examples of foods which can act as natural laxatives for some people include:

-Prunes / prune juice -Licorice -Chocolate -Coffee -Alcohol -Spicy food