Generally speaking, laxatives are medicines that are used to treat constipation. They are also called aperients and purgatives and are used to lose bowel movements and stools.
Bulk-forming laxatives
Often prescribed for constipation, bulk-forming laxatives work by drawing in water from the intestines. The water softens the stool and makes it easier to pass. This is especially helpful for people with irritable bowel syndrome or diverticular disease.
Bulk-forming laxatives are usually taken by mouth and are usually safe. However, they can cause some side effects. These include bloating, cramping, and intestinal gas. These side effects tend to disappear when the body gets used to the medicine.
Bulk-forming laxatives contain psyllium, methylcellulose, and other ingredients. They are available in capsules, granules, and powder. They should be taken with at least 8 ounces of water. They can be purchased over the counter or prescribed by a doctor.
Bulk-forming laxatives can be used for constipation in both men and women. Some people take them daily to keep their bowels regular. They are also safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Bulk-forming laxatives tend to work slowly, taking up to three days to produce results. This is because they stimulate the muscles in the gut to push the contents of the intestines along. Taking them for a prolonged period of time can cause bowel obstruction.
Bulk-forming laxatives may also cause dry stools. Adding an extra glass of juice can help prevent this. In addition, some laxatives may cause an electrolyte imbalance. If you have kidney or diabetes, you may have a higher risk of this.
Bulk-forming laxatives should be used for constipation only when it is not relieved by other methods. If constipation becomes worse, you should consult your doctor.
Bulk-forming laxatives work best for constipation that is caused by a low-fiber diet. However, they can be helpful for other types of constipation as well.
Osmotic-type laxatives
Several osmotic-type laxatives are commonly used to treat constipation in children. These laxatives contain polyethylene glycol (PEG) or lactulose. Using these laxatives may increase the frequency of bowel movements and may help relieve diarrhea. However, these laxatives may cause dehydration. Some of these laxatives may also cause mild diarrhea. So, if you are considering taking these laxatives, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor.
In addition to these laxatives, other osmotic-type laxatives include senna infusions. These laxatives have been viewed as an alternative to stimulant laxatives. They are used to increase bowel movements and promote peristalsis. They are also used in cases of diverticular disease. However, they have not been shown to alter smooth intestinal muscles or enteric nerves.
Saline osmotic laxatives are salts that are present in a liquid form. These laxatives cause the bowel to empty rapidly. These laxatives are usually not used for long-term use. In some cases, saline osmotic laxatives can cause heart failure. They are generally effective within 30 minutes to three hours.
Stimulant laxatives are used to increase bowel movements by stimulating peristaltic action. These laxatives may be used in conjunction with adjuvant therapy, such as dietary modification or behavioral modification. They are available in different forms, such as castor oil, aloe, bisacodyl, and milk of magnesia.
Several studies have been conducted on the effectiveness and safety of these laxatives. However, studies have been heterogeneous, so it is not possible to draw strong conclusions. In one study, nine different study agents were evaluated. The primary objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of these laxatives and to identify adverse events. The secondary objectives were to evaluate the need for additional therapies and to assess the side effects of these laxatives.
Glycerin suppositories
Using glycerin suppositories as laxatives is a common procedure used to treat constipation. Glycerine is a stimulant laxative that works by drawing water into the intestine. This draws stools soft and easier to expel. However, glycerine can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and weakness.
Glycerin suppositories are not a substitute for a healthy diet. A diet high in fiber, including whole-grain bread and bran, will help keep your bowels in working order. You should also drink plenty of water. A healthy diet with plenty of fiber and water will help soften stools.
Glycerin suppositories should only be used on the advice of a physician. They should not be used if you are pregnant or have a history of glycerol allergy. They should also be stored in a place where children are not allowed.
When using glycerin suppositories, you should use your hands and be gentle. The suppository should be inserted at the entrance to the rectum, and left in place for fifteen to twenty minutes. You should not use the suppository if you feel any discomfort, and you should remove the suppository immediately. You should also read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Glycerin suppositories, like most laxatives, are only to be used as directed. You should also avoid using them more than once a day. You should allow at least fifteen minutes for the suppository to work and one hour for a bowel movement to occur. If you experience any symptoms of constipation after using glycerin suppositories, including vomiting, nausea, or loss of appetite, consult your physician.
If you use a glycerin suppository as a laxative, you should never take it by mouth. It should be inserted into the back passage, and into the rectum.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a type of sugar alcohol that is produced in the body during the breakdown of carbohydrates. It is used as a sweetener in many baked goods, including sugar-free foods. It is also added to chewable vitamins and mouthwashes. It can be found in a wide variety of foods, including corn, oats, rice, berries, mushrooms, and plums.
Some studies have shown that xylitol can have a laxative effect when consumed in large amounts. This can cause watery feces. However, this effect can be mitigated if a person eats bulky foods that have a high content of plant fibers.
Xylitol has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food and other products. It is found naturally in corn, rice, oats, mushrooms, berries, plums, and some vegetables. It has also been added to sugar-free chewable vitamins and mouthwashes. However, there is little research on the effects of xylitol on the body.
A few studies have shown that xylitol may have antioxidant properties. However, human studies are needed to determine whether these properties are effective. Xylitol may also have antibacterial properties. This could help prevent tooth decay. It may also help fight respiratory infections and ear infections. It may also help keep gum disease at bay.
In addition to its antibacterial properties, xylitol is a good source of calcium, which is needed to replace the enamel on your teeth. It also helps the body to produce glutathione, a natural antioxidant that counteracts free radicals. However, xylitol may also be toxic to the liver. If a person consumes a lot of xylitol, he or she may experience diarrhea, liver problems, or other digestive issues.
Xylitol has a low glycemic index of 12. It is a sweetener that provides 10 calories per teaspoon. It is also about 40 percent lower in calories than regular sugar.
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