subject: Are You Constipated? - Laxatives Can Help You [print this page] A laxative has compounds that promote bowel movement. For the most part, laxatives are used as constipation home remedies.
Generally, the most preferred laxatives contain dietary fiber that will bulk up and soften waste in the body. The advantage of utilizing bulking laxatives with dietary fiber is they can be used routinely.
This laxative is recommended for chronic but mild constipation. The disadvantage is that it can take up to 12 hrs for it to work and is less efficient unless there is an increase in water consumption.
They are typically in powdered form and you need to blend them with water or some other liquid. It is also typical that they cause flatulence for the user.
Another type of laxatives are suppositories. The effectiveness of these medicines is based on chemicals they contain. These chemicals will stimulate the nerves in your bowels.
The primary compound, typically glycerin, will cause the bowels to contract repeatedly. The repeated contractions will eventually enable waste elimination.
In contrast to dietary fiber laxatives, suppositories affect rather fast, often within an hour. They are also a good alternative for oral laxatives if the patient is not able to take the medicine orally.
One disadvantage is that suppositories must be inserted into the rectum. An additional disadvantage is they are not for long-term usage. Because of the nerve stimulation, long-term usage can cause constipation because the bowel has become accustomed to the stimulation. Only use suppositories for severe constipation.
There are also liquid laxatives designed as a constipation remedy. They are taken orally, and the laxative's ingredients will draw water into the intestines. Water is crucial to a proper bowel movement. One disadvantage is the taste of the products, which is typically described as chalky tasting.
The product can also be utilized for bowel cleaning. Bowel cleansing is required prior to particular medical procedures. The advantages of liquid laxatives are the effectiveness as well as the fact they can be used on a regular basis.
The disadvantage to using laxatives for chronic constipation is the body's reliance on them. People might find they are reaching for a laxative in lieu of suitable eating habits.
Dehydration can become a concern when laxatives are overused. Individuals should make sure to increase water consumption when using laxatives. Caregivers that may be taking care of children, or the elderly, and routinely administer laxatives need to monitor for dehydration.
In chronic constipation cases the dietary laxatives are the best choice since they are safe to use. You can find fiber also in countless foods. However, the concentration is considerably higher in powdered laxatives.
Peoples can integrate dietary fiber in their everyday meals. Just blend the powder into drinks or sprinkle on to foods. Foods high in fiber include bran, grains, beans and even popcorn.
Final words of warning; do not ever use laxatives aiming to lose weight since this can lead to major consequences. Laxatives are meant only for treating constipation and for short-lived use.
