Are laxatives safe for weight loss?
https://ift.tt/2yqh6P6 Using laxatives for weight loss is not safe or effective. There are other, more healthful ways to lose weight and maintain a desired body weight. In this article, we look at whether laxatives aid weight loss. We also discuss the safety of using laxatives for weight loss, alternative weight loss strategies, and when to see a doctor. Do laxatives cause weight loss?
Taking laxatives for weight loss is an unsafe and ineffective strategy.
Doctors do not recommend laxatives as a way to lose weight. Research suggests that while some people mistakenly believe that taking laxatives will prevent their body from absorbing calories, it is an unsafe and ineffective strategy. Laxatives treat constipation by softening the stool or stimulating bowel movements. People may assume that passing more stools will lead to weight loss. However, although people may feel "lighter" temporarily, there is no evidence to support the use of laxatives as a safe or effective weight loss method. Laxatives cause water loss, not weight lossThe temporary weight loss that people may experience from taking laxatives is actually due to water loss. Losing water is not the same as losing body fat. Many laxatives work by helping the gut absorb more water from the body or keeping water in the gut around the stool. This water softens the stool, making it easier to pass. It may also cause diarrhea, which is very watery stool. As this additional water passes out with the stool, a person may weigh less after using laxatives. However, this effect is only temporary. Laxatives do not reduce body fat or promote long-term weight loss. Even at high doses, stimulant laxatives, which encourage the movement of stool through the digestive tract, have only a "modest effect" on calorie absorption. Safety and risksMany laxatives are available over the counter for the treatment of constipation. Misusing laxatives for weight loss may cause the following side effects: DiarrheaPeople usually use laxatives to relieve constipation. If a person takes laxatives when they are not constipated or uses them too frequently, these drugs may cause diarrhea. Some people who often use laxatives may experience alternating diarrhea and constipation. Dehydration
Dehydration from taking laxatives may cause headaches, thirst, and a dry mouth.
Osmotic laxatives draw water from the body into the gut to soften stool. Taking too many osmotic laxatives or taking them too frequently may cause dehydration. Other forms of laxatives may also cause frequent diarrhea that leads to dehydration. Common symptoms of dehydration include: Electrolyte imbalanceTaking laxatives can result in an electrolyte imbalance. Certain types of laxative may cause the body to absorb high amounts of electrolytes such as sodium and phosphorus from the gut. Some laxatives can also lead to low blood levels of potassium, magnesium, or calcium. An electrolyte imbalance may cause weakness and an abnormal heart rhythm. In severe cases, having an electrolyte imbalance can be life threatening. Impaired intestinal functionSome laxatives can stimulate muscles in the gut, helping them promote the movement of stool through it. Taking any stimulant laxatives too frequently may cause dependency. More research is necessary on this effect, but some experts believe that the gut may become increasingly dependent on stimulation. As a result, it may eventually stop moving food along the digestive tract of its own accord. Using laxatives frequently may also irritate the gut lining, potentially putting a person at risk of having bloody stools. When to see a doctorReaching and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce risk factors for major health problems, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. However, it is vital to lose weight in a safe and sustainable way. Sometimes, trying to lose weight can adversely affect a person's physical and mental well-being. Trying to address a negative self-image through weight loss without any mental health strategies can make things worse. For some people, unsuitable weight loss strategies can progress into an eating disorder. Signs and symptoms that can indicate an eating disorder include:
It is possible to have a couple of these symptoms without having an eating disorder. However, anyone concerned that they or someone they know may have an eating disorder should speak to a doctor. Safe weight loss strategies
Exercise is a much safer strategy for losing weight.
Taking laxatives for weight loss is not a safe strategy. For most people, drastic and restrictive dieting does not work in the long term. Making sustainable lifestyle changes is the most effective way to reach a healthy weight. These include:
Self-care activities can include: Anyone who thinks that they may need to lose weight can find out from a doctor whether this is necessary for their health. The doctor can advise a person on what the best weight range is for them. This range will depend on their height and body type, among other factors. SummaryUsing laxatives for weight loss is not safe or effective. If a person weighs less after taking laxatives, this is likely to be due to water loss. Water loss from laxative use is temporary and is not the same as losing body fat. Laxatives do not reduce body weight in the long term. Laxatives have several potential side effects, including diarrhea and dehydration. Eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly may help a person reach their desired weight. However, they should speak to a doctor about whether weight loss is necessary for their health before starting a new diet or exercise regimen. Weight loss is only beneficial for a person's well-being when it is necessary, and they do it safely. Anyone experiencing issues with their body image should seek support from a doctor, who can help them access the right support. Weight Loss via Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness News From Medical News Today https://ift.tt/O45xlc July 30, 2019 at 07:44PM
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The Flat Belly FixThis is the only 21-day rapid weight loss system that allows you to easily lose an average of 1 lb a day for 21 days without feeling hungry or deprived. The unique and brand new techniques used in this System are proven SAFE. And they do not cause the rebound weight gain common to all the other rapid weight loss systems that are not backed by the latest science. The Flat Belly Fix System takes advantage of a recent scientific discovery that proves the effective weight loss power of an ancient spice. Combined with other cutting-edge ingredients in the patent-pending Flat Belly Fix Tea™ — that you can make right in your own kitchen in minutes — this System is the quickest, easiest and most enjoyable way to quickly get the body you desire and deserve. Click HereArchives
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