Looking for a relief for constipation? Laxatives are a common choice as a quick fix and are frequently prescribed by doctors but many unsuspecting sufferers are unaware of the hidden dangers of laxatives
Currently it is estimated that one in five people in America suffers from digestive disorders, constipation being the most common. Over $2.7 billion was spent on laxatives in the past 4 years. It is quite obvious from just these two facts that that bowel problems are a serious health issue for many. On top of this is the number of illnesses & diseases people suffer as a result of toxic laden bowels which is virtually impossible to estimate.
The use of laxatives basically is to eliminate compacted waste collected in the bowels causing discomfort due to the inability to be released easily and naturally. But the dangers of laxatives can sometimes be worse than the symptoms they are trying to get rid of.
3 prescription and over the counter laxatives are
Osmotic Laxatives
These types of laxatives stimulate the intestines to absorb excessive amounts of water from the body. The required result is to convert the compacted stool into diarrhea. This process is usually quite slow and can take up to a few days to be effective.
Dangers
- Possible severe dehydration as water is leeched from the body and into the intestines.
- Depletion of electrolytes.
- Gas build up while waiting for the laxative to take effect (can take a few days in some cases). This can lead to bloating and cramping.
Stimulant Laxatives
Work by stimulating the intestinal muscles to contract and spasm with the use of chemicals and/or toxic and harsh herbs. These laxatives usually work within a few hours making them popular for those looking for a quick fix.
Dangers
- Possible dehydration
- Gas related pain
- Possible liver damage
- Highly addictive.
- Long term damage to the intestinal lining can occur with overuse.
- Lazy bowel syndrome can occur after a regular use over a short period as your bowels lose muscle tone and strength. Resulting in a dependency on the laxatives for any bowel movement. A symptom of chronic constipation.
Stimulant laxatives include Senna and Cascara Sagrada (2 common ingredients in herbal laxatives) and Castor oil.
Bulk Laxatives
Works by increasing the overall mass of stool which in theory forces the bowel to work harder to evacuate the unwanted stuck waste. In most cases these laxatives use highly absorbent dead fibre instead of healthy living fruit and vegetable fibres. Psyllium is one of the most popular ingredients in these type of over the counter laxatives. People often experience a considerable amount of stool being removed. But how much of this is actually the clogged waste and how much is the fibre product taken remembering it increases substantially in size once in the body?
Dangers
Psyllium products after long term use are known to cause in many people
- Possible clogging of already restricted bowels.
- Allergic reactions which include skin irritation (hives).
- Laboured breathing has also been recorded.
- Anaphylaxis (throat constriction) which can be life threatening.
Common bulk forming laxatives include - Psyllium, Methyl Cellulose and Guar Gum
If you wish to avoid the potential dangers of laxatives a substantially safer and clinically proven colon cleanser is an oxygen based cleanser. Oxygen based cleansers work by gradually liquefying hardened waste stuck in the bowels (up to 20 pounds in the average 40 year old) for a complete and total colon cleanse. Working naturally with the body for easy and efficient bowel movements, supporting a healthy immune and digestive system and assisting in maximum absorption of vital nutrients, all without the harsh side effects that accompanies laxatives and most herbal cleansers.
Constipation ReliefFor more complete details about how an oxygen based colon cleanser can assist you in the relief of symptoms for constipation gently and naturally, please visit colon-cleanse-for-colon-health.
Steven is a Professional Therapist and Natural health advocate with over 3000hrs study in Exercise Science, Health & Nutrition and Massage. He has his own clinic and also works part time at one of the large exclusive health retreats set in the Gold Coast Hinterland. A part time Triathlete who strongly believes in natural therapies and prevention rather than cure.