Abuse of laxatives happens when someone uses them often and repeatedly in an effort to lose weight, get rid of extra calories, feel "thin," or "empty."

Following eating binges, laxatives are frequently overused because the user falsely assumes that the laxatives will operate to expedite the passage of food and calories before they can be absorbed. Abusing laxatives is a significant and dangerous problem that frequently leads to a number of health issues and occasionally even life-threatening situations.

The myth of laxatives

The idea that laxatives can help you lose weight is a hoax. In reality, the majority of meals and calories have already been absorbed by the small intestine by the time laxatives start to work on the large intestine.

Although laxatives artificially stimulate the large intestine to empty, the “weight loss” caused by a laxative-induced bowel movement contains little actual food, fat, or calories. 

Instead, laxative misuse causes the loss of water, minerals, electrolytes, and indigestible fiber and wastes from the colon. As soon as the person drinks any liquids and the body rehydrates, this "water weight" returns. The abuser of persistent laxatives is at risk of dehydration, which puts additional taxes on the organs and could ultimately result in death.

Working with a group of medical experts with experience treating eating disorders, such as a general practitioner, a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor, and a qualified dietician, is necessary to overcome laxative misuse. It also helps to have the support of close friends and relatives. Connecting with others to discuss anxieties, issues, and problems can be a huge help in getting through difficult periods during the healing process.