Following a laxative diet is one of the popular weight loss methods these days. Though effective, there are also a few laxative diet side effects, which you need to be aware of in order to avoid them…
People on a spree to lose weight are trying every available source to shed those extra pounds. Some of them even go to the extreme of overdoing it, thinking it may yield a faster outcome. But in the long run, not many realize that it may jeopardize the health, and lead to several unnecessary complications. These days, there are many weight loss diets that have come into existence keeping pace with people’s demands to shed those extra kilos.
One such diet is the laxative diet, which not only helps in weight loss but is also an effective way to evade and relieve constipation. So if you are wondering ‘does laxative diet work’, then the effect mainly depends on the requirement of that individual and how religiously he follows it.
What is a Laxative Diet?
Laxative diet is a newly conceptualized weight loss diet that has found many takers in the recent past, and is also gaining popularity. Laxatives are normally prescribed to individuals who are victims of constipation and who find it difficult to have a bowel movement. Laxatives are mostly used as a dietary fiber supplement that helps add bulk to the stool and facilitates its elimination from the body.
There are many forms in which the laxative diet can be followed. Some individuals take pills, while some prefer following the liquid diet, in the form of laxative tea. Many herbs like aloe, blackthorn, cascara, rhubarb roots and senna leaves are also a component of the laxative diet, and aid in effective weight loss.
You can also chalk out a laxative diet plan, which can be followed till you attain your goal. Foods like wholemeal bread, salad, baked vegetables, fruits, roast chicken, grilled fish, eggs, yogurt teamed with a glass of milk. Milk can be included as plain or taken with tea or coffee for breakfast, For lunch and dinner, you can have a serving of mashed potatoes, boiled vegetables like broccoli, green beans, carrots, asparagus and peas.
Chicken, ham and fish can also be a part of this diet. You can plan your own meals in the diet regime accordingly and have it on a rotational basis. However, it is mandatory to drink plenty of water, during this diet regimen, as it not only aids in weight loss but also keeps the body well hydrated.
Side Effects of Laxative Diet
Many people vouch for this newly formulated weight loss diet that seems to have many positive effects. However, laxative diet, though an effective mean to lose weight, comes with its share of flaws. A few side effects have been observed in a few individuals who follow a laxative diet regimen. Some of the side effects can also have dire consequences if they are ignored, or left untreated.
These side effects of laxative diet can be avoided, by following the guidelines and instructions as recommended by the health care provider.
- Individuals who find it difficult to adjust to the new phase may suffer from nausea induced vomiting, cramps and a queasy feeling in the stomach, dehydration as a result of water loss from the body. Some individuals may also complain of persistent diarrhea which may make the person feel weak and fatigued.
- Contrary to its effect of treating constipation, following this diet without expertise will cause chronic constipation, which can also induce rectal bleeding. The color of the urine may also change as a result of intake of herbal laxative remedies.
- People who are sensitive to certain herbs and medications recommended in the diet may suffer from allergic reactions like occurrence of skin rashes, which may cause itching and irritation. Eruption of hives, shortness of breath, irregularity in heartbeats are also common complaints of individuals who are suffering from laxative diet side effects.
- Since the diet plan only consists of the use of laxative tea, herbs and other drugs, there is no proper intake of food. So there are chances that the person may become a victim of nutritional deficiencies due to lack of vital nutrients that are required by the body for proper functioning.
- In case of withdrawal from the laxative diet regime, the person may undergo symptoms like irritability, shaky hands, frequent mood swings and bouts of depression. These signs may continue till the body has completely adjusted itself to the new phase of not including laxatives in the diet.
In order to avoid these unwanted complications, it is necessary to follow the laxative diet tips as prescribed by your dietitian so that you may achieve your desired goal sans any negative effects on the body. All the best!
