Laxatives are commonly used by those with eating disorders as a way to expedite the weight loss process. It is important to be aware of the effects that can come from the laxatives.
 
There are many forms of laxatives, including; in the pill form, herbal laxatives and liquid laxatives. Regardless of the form of laxative, those taken for the purpose of weight loss can lead to devastating effects within the body. How does a laxative work? After the laxative has been ingested, there is a message sent to the large bowel which signals it that is time to empty. Although, this can be dangerous when someone suffering from an eating disorder has not eaten anything and therefore the large bowel is empty. The use of laxatives can lead to severe dehydration because of the water that is being released from the body, rather than food in the large bowel and intestines.

When one has been using laxatives for an extended period of time there are various side effects the dieter puts themselves at risk of, these are:

• Cramping and other digestive issues
• Electrolyte imbalances which can lead to severe side effects
• Dehydration which can also lead to severe side effects
• Irregular heartbeat and the risk of a heart attack
• Renal problems

Phenolphthalein is a common ingredient that is found in many laxatives – in the past, this ingredient has been recalled by the FDA because of the instances of cancer that have been developed after continued research. Exposure to this ingredient is harmful to the health and can affect the body in many negative ways.

After one has experienced prolonged exposure to laxatives there are many side effects that can occur when the patient tries to stop the laxative treatment. There are many side effects that will affect het digestive system such as constipation and cramping. It is commonplace to become addicted to the laxatives and the results that are often seen for a minimal period of two weeks.  If one has been taking the laxatives for an extended period of time these side effects have been known to be more secure and last for longer – throughout the extended withdrawal process.

Laxative use becomes increasingly dangerous when the laxatives are combined with a diet that is extremely restrictive and low in calories and exercise regimens that are strict and severe.

One of the most dangerous laxatives that are used by those with eating disorders is syrup referred to as Ipapec syrup. This instant laxative can cause serious cardiac side effects and even death after even one use and should be avoided. Ipapec syrup can cause the system to become toxic and create harsh side effects within the bodily system.

There are many cases that involve overdose of laxatives where patients have used more than the recommended dose for an extended period of time. Prolonged and overdose laxative use is a dangerous game that is not worth the temporary weight loss that can be seen on the scale.

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