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. site map	Laxatives in various forms (herbal, pills, liquids, prescription, and non-prescription) have been used increasingly as a weight loss measure. Unfortunately, they don't work to control or lose weight. Laxatives work to empty the large intestine. The majority of calories, nutrients, and fats are absorbed by the small intestines before being passed to the large intestine.  The result is that the elimination of remaining food waste from the large intestine results in little more than water loss. Quite often anorexics and bulimics use laxatives to help empty their system of any food they take in. The unfortunate reality is that they merely shed excess water and can actually begin retaining water as the body fights the unnatural dehydration. When they begin feeling or looking bloated, they take even more laxatives, and the cycle worsens. The constant, frequent use of laxatives as a form of weight control actually cause serious health problems including, but not limited to: severe dehydration nervousness restlessness insomnia high blood pressure severe headaches fatigue hyperactivity heart palpitations irregular heart beats congestive heart failure heart attack stroke vomiting diarrhea constipation excessive perspiration blurred vision high fevers urinary tract infections tremors confusion hallucinations renal failure convulsions death Read T.'s story of hope and recovery from laxative dependency Read S.S.'s story of hope and recovery from laxative dependency 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. powered by FreeFind	Sign up for our periodic newsletter to get the latest tips, tricks, hints, help, recipes, site updates, and much more.
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