As the Christmas season approaches, if you are like me, you will be devouring food with gusto. There will be time when we suffer indigestion and other sort of ailments in our digestive tract, especially the large intestine or colon, such as constipation and other similar condition. Most of the time we seek a fast immediatel relief, LAXATIVES, of this condition. I believe it is necessary and important at this time to write this article on the use of laxatives and the danger it brings to our colon health with regular use..
Laxatives are designed to stimulate the bowel in the efforts to excrete more mucous materials. In actuality, laxatives do not correct the real problem… but instead they make it worse. By irritating the bowels to expel materials, they are not promoting the natural function of the colon muscles – but are instead assisting in the deterioration of the sensitive intestinal membranes. Laxatives can be extremely habit-forming, and over time will cause the colon to become weaker and lazy.
In addition, prolonged usage has been shown to cause dependency – making the bowels sluggish and resistant to functioning on its own. The result is instead of strengthening your colon, it will actually make it more dependant on the continued usage of the product to maintain regularity.
Below are List of Laxative Types Available on Stores
Bulk-forming Laxatives
Bulk-forming laxatives contain materials, such as cellulose and psyllium, that pass through the digestive tract without being digested. In the intestines, these materials absorb liquid and swell, making the stool soft, bulky, and easier to pass. The bulky stool then stimulates the bowel to move. Laxatives in this group include such brands as FiberCon, Fiberall, and Metamucil.
Lubricant Laxatives
Mineral oil is the mostly widely used Lubricant Laxative. Taken by mouth, the oil coats the stool. This keeps the stool moist and soft and makes it easier to pass. Lubricant laxatives are often used for patients who need to avoid straining – after abdominal surgery, for example.
Stool Softeners (emollient laxatives)
As their name suggests, Stool Softeners make stools softer and easier to pass by increasing their moisture content. This type of laxative does not really stimulate bowel movements, but it makes it possible to have bowel movements without straining. Stool Softeners are best used to prevent constipation in people who need to avoid straining – because of recent surgery, for example. However, they are not very effective at treating existing constipation. Docusate (Colace, Sof-Lax) is an example of a stool softener.
Stimulant Laxatives
Ingredients in these laxatives stimulate muscles and nerves in the intestines. This helps move the stool along. Although these laxatives are popular and effective, they should be used with care, as they are more likely than other types to cause side effects. They may also work more quickly and powerfully than other laxatives. Examples of stimulant laxatives are Bisacodyl (Correctol) and Senna (Senokot).
Saline laxative
such as magnesium citrate and sodium phosphate, exert an osmotic effect that increases the water content and volume of stool.
