A bowel movement is the final step in the digestive process. This substance, commonly referred to as a BM, feces, poop or stool, consists of what remains after your stomach, small intestine and colon absorb the fluids and nutrients out of the foods and drinks you consume, according to Medline Plus. Changes in the frequency or consistency of your bowel movements may correlate with weight loss. Consult your doctor if you experience unintentional weight loss or a change in bowel movements.
Healthy Bowels
Normal bowel movements vary among individuals, due to a variety of conditions including diet, age and lifestyle. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse defines constipation as having fewer than three bowel movements in a week. Medications, diseases and the amount of fiber in your diet may temporarily disrupt your normal pattern of bowel movements.
Weight Loss
Weight loss occurs when your body burns more calories than it receives, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Your body stores extra calories as fat. Unexplained weight loss accompanied by a change in bowel movements may signal the presence of a health issue. Some dieters attempt to lose weight by increasing the frequency of their bowel movements with laxatives.
Causes
Medical conditions that may cause changes in bowel movements and weight loss include bacterial and viral infections, as well as parasitic infestations. Digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, may also cause these symptoms to appear together. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, individuals with this disorder may experience bouts of constipation and diarrhea, as well as weight loss.
Laxatives
According to the National Eating Disorders Organization, some people attempt to eliminate calories and lose weight by using laxatives. While it may seem that rushing the food through the large intestine will eliminate calories, this is not the case. The stomach and small intestine absorb the calories from food before it enters the lower bowel, making laxatives ineffective for weight loss. A temporary reduction in weight can occur from excessive water loss, due to frequent bowel movements.
Risk Factors
Laxative abuse and frequent bowel movements may lead to health problems, including severe dehydration and an imbalance of electrolytes. Symptoms of severe dehydration include blurry vision, weakness and fainting. The Mayo Clinic website recommends consulting your doctor regarding unexplained weight loss or bowel movements that include bloody stools, as well as diarrhea that lasts a week or constipation that lasts more than three weeks.
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