What is an osmotic laxative?
Do you struggle with constipation? Are looking for a solution that doesn’t involve prunes or unpleasant tasting drinks? Look no further than osmotic laxatives! This article will dive into the details of what an osmotic laxative is, how it works, and why it might just be the best thing to happen to your bowels since fiber.
What are Osmotic Laxatives?
First things first, let’s define our terms. Osmosis is the movement of water molecules from an area of low solute concentration, like pure water, to an area of high solute concentration, like saltwater. Got it? Good.
An osmotic laxative works by drawing water into your digestive system via this handy little principle called osmosis (1). Essentially they’re a bunch of chemicals (we’ll get into which ones later) that increase the amount of dissolved particles in your intestines. That increased concentration draws fluid out from surrounding tissues and vessels as your body attempts to balance everything out (2).
This extra fluid helps soften stool and make it easier for you to pass through Number 2 without breaking a sweat – metaphorically speaking at least (please do not attempt any type of physical exertion while on the toilet).
Types Of Osmotic Laxatives
There are two main types: saline laxatives and sugar alcohols lactulose (3) .Each has its own strengths and weaknesses:
Saline Laxatives
- Contain sodium-based compounds
- Work quickly
- Can cause dehydration if overused
Sugar Alcohols /Lactulose
- Gentle effectiveness
- Safe for long-term use
- Can occasionally result in abdominal bloating or gas
So now that you’ve got some context behind what you’re putting in your body let’s move onto the good stuff – why should you consider using an osmotic laxative.
Why Choose Osmotic Laxatives?
1. Convenience
Let’s face it, nobody wants to add more prep time when heading into a stressful office meeting with their boss about that stapler they accidentally broke yesterday. With osmotic laxatives, there are no extra steps needed beyond popping a pill or taking some liquid (4) . It may not be as exciting as getting flowers from your crush but trust us, your future self will thank you for having done something kind for your colon today.
2. Safe For Long-term Use
If consistency is key then sugar alcohols/lactulose is like the superglue keeping everyone together. Because of its gentle nature (see section on types above), this is one solution suitable for ongoing use and importantly won’t do any nasty internal damage because of frequent use-
“So what if I have to go Number Two every day!” (I bet we all know someone who has said this before). Normalizing bowel movement- couldn’t be better than this!
3. No More Prune Juice Or Bitter Teas
Yes ladies and gentlemen it genuinely exists: a way to keep things moving without drinking gross stuff first thing in the morning (5) . Also not having irritating after effects like bloating and farting while still being able to work sounds too good….to…be true! (Really wish life could be just chipotle burritos right?!)
4.Isn’t Abrasive To The Intestine Walls
One problem faced by those relying solely on diet changes such as rough fodmaps or fibrous fruits such as apples was possible tearing up and inflammation of intestinal linings essentially leading them down the path of haemorrhoids(no!). In contrast, using laxatives that tap into principle of osmosis ensure the stool is not extremely harsh on their way out- making potty time relaxed and soothing for once.
5. Safe For those with Kidney disease
Generally speaking, it can be dangerous to use a supplement or medication which relies heavily on kidney filtration as main elimination process in your body if you have history of any similar disorder. Osmotic Laxatives nevertheless are essentially non confrontational when it comes to this group (6) . They don’t burden upon kidneys instead help water retention inside cells for better movement.
“Osmosis does make everything more exciting doesn’t it?” – Some Scientist Somewhere
Conclusion
All things considered, osmotic laxatives seem like they offer some great relief when conventional solutions such as fruits and veggies fail us (they really do sometimes). Folks looking for a gentle but effective solution without disrupting their daily routines should definitely give them a try at least once! It’s nothing scary…she said after having looked up tons of medical jargon describing how an osmotic reaction works