Many people take laxatives to deal with constipation, but it may not be a good idea to take them long-term or frequently. New research links regular laxative use (most days of the week) with increased rates of dementia.
The study found that regularly using multiple types of laxatives or only osmotic laxatives had an increased risk of dementia over a ten year follow-up period. Osmotic laxatives (e.g., Miralax, polyethylene glycol, lactulose) draw water into the stool, making the stool softer and easier to pass.
However, using only other types of laxatives (stool softeners, stimulant, or bulk-forming) was not associated with dementia.
Some natural ways to treat constipation: drink more water, eat more fiber rich foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables), exercise or physical activity, drink coffee or tea.
From Science Daily: People who regularly use laxatives may have an increased risk of dementia
People who regularly use laxatives, a common treatment for constipation, may have more than a 50% increased risk of developing dementia than people who do not use laxatives, according to a study published in the February 22, 2023, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. ...continue reading "Frequent Laxative Use Associated With Higher Risk of Dementia"