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Food and Diet - your online resource for everything diet-related
Laxatives are not a weight loss program.  If you're using laxatives to lose weight, stop now and see your doctor.
Note that long-term use of laxatives creates a physical dependency. Stopping the use of laxatives after long-term use can cause serious physical problems and requires the assistance of a health care professional.

If you suspect that someone you know is abusing laxatives, help them get medical attention before they destroy their health and their life.
Laxatives - how they can harm you
On 30 August 2005, we received this story from a 35-year old woman who recovered from laxative abuse:

"Hello.

I still have a hard time controlling my eating disorder, but I stopped using laxatives when I was 21. I began using them as a teenager because my sister had said it was a good way to lose weight.

The weight came off, but a host of problems arose:

  • Poor oral health
  • Protein in my urine
  • Hair loss
  • Edginess
  • Tired all the time

Another side effect was an upset stomach. Taking large amounts of laxatives can hurt your stomach. Once I noticed what was happening to me, I stopped taking the laxatives. I began to gain weight. I was down to 113 on a 5'6" frame. My hair started growing again.

I still have some dental problems, but those are being taken care of. It's been 14 years since I abused the stuff, and I feel much better. I am coping with my issues through therapy.

My suggestion is that you not abuse your body with laxatives. You will hurt yourself more than by thinking you are overweight."

Thank you S.S. for sharing your inspiring story.
If you have ever used laxatives as a form of weight control or if you are a recovered laxative abuser, e-mail us your story so that you can inspire others to stop and get help.


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