Laxatives that are sold over the counter are not always used in the intended way -- the occasional relief of constipation. Some people take them as a weight loss aid, though this is not a safe way to lose weight. If you are considering the use of laxatives for dieting, you should be aware of the potential risks involved. Check with your doctor before using any medication or supplement for dieting.
Laxative Dependency
Taking a laxative for dieting may indeed work at first. Unfortunately, as the National Eating Disorders Association explains, your body becomes tolerant to the effects of a normal dose. Over time, you require more and more of the laxative in order to get the same effect. The weight loss that occurs with laxative use is not the result of undigested calories. By the time laxatives reach your large intestine, the calories have already been absorbed. What is excreted is fiber, minerals, electrolytes and waste products that are already present in your colon. Except for the waste products, you are excreting nutrients that your body needs to function properly.
Dehydration, Mineral and Electrolyte Imbalance
Electrolytes and minerals in your body, such as sodium and magnesium, are necessary for neurological and cardiac function. With laxative use, these minerals are excreted in amounts that can cause an imbalance. This can, according to Tennessee Oncology Treatment, lead to an irregular heartbeat, fatigue and muscle weakness. Additionally, if you are using laxatives for dieting, you are also at risk for dehydration due to the excretion of water from the tissues. Dehydration symptoms include fatigue, decreased urine production and lightheadedness when standing up. Thirst is a poor indicator of dehydration; by the time you feel thirsty, you are already significantly dehydrated.
Constipation or Diarrhea
Because using laxatives for dieting can lead to an increased tolerance, you may develop constipation that requires taking higher dosages to get results. Additionally, because laxatives draw water from the body, constipation may be caused or worsened by a lack of water to facilitate bowel movements. Laxative use can also cause chronic diarrhea, according to the Eating Disorder Treatment Centers. This is caused by over-stimulation of the colon which causes spasms that force water and waste out of the body rapidly.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition caused by a lack of red blood cells. Using laxatives on a chronic basis to lose weight can lead to internal bleeding of the lining of the colon. The resulting blood is excreted as waste, leaving less available in the body. Less red blood cells leads to less oxygen in your body and, as a result, you may feel fatigue or shortness of breath with light activity. You may also notice blood in your stool; however, the blood may not always be evident. Some individuals may notice their stools are black or tarry, which can also indicate the presence of blood.
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