Gentle Laxatives For Blended Food Diets (2024)

Laxatives are substances that help relieve constipation by softening stools and stimulating bowel movements. They come in various forms, including pills, powders, liquids, suppositories, and enemas. While laxatives are typically safe when used as directed, they can cause side effects such as bloating, gas, and stomach cramps if overused or misused. Natural laxatives, derived from plants, are often preferred as they are gentler on the digestive system and have fewer potential side effects. Bulk-forming laxatives, for example, are considered the gentlest type as they increase the size of stools without causing significant side effects. For patients eating blended food, natural laxatives such as high-fiber foods (e.g. chia seeds, legumes, flaxseeds), probiotic foods (e.g. kefir, yogurt), and herbal laxatives (e.g. senna, ginger, peppermint) can be effective in relieving constipation. It is important to note that natural laxatives should be used correctly and under medical supervision to avoid potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

Bulk-forming laxatives are a gentle and safe option for treating constipation. They are often recommended as the first line of defence against constipation, particularly for those experiencing chronic constipation due to diet, lifestyle, recent surgery, or medication. These laxatives are also beneficial for pregnant women, bedridden people, and those preparing for surgery.

These laxatives work by drawing water into the stool, making it softer, bulkier, and more liquid-like, which in turn stimulates the colon to contract and push the stool out. This type of laxative is different from stimulant laxatives, which speed up the movement of bowels through the intestines, and lubricant laxatives, which lubricate the stools.

Common bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). They are available in powder and capsule form and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. However, it is important to take them as directed to prevent side effects such as bloating, gas, and mild stomach pain. It is also recommended to take them with at least 8 ounces of water or fruit juice to prevent bowel obstruction.

While bulk-forming laxatives are generally safe, they may not be suitable for everyone. People with kidney disease or diabetes, for example, are at risk of electrolyte imbalances when taking laxatives. Additionally, those with difficulty swallowing or allergies to psyllium should consult their doctor before using these laxatives.

Stool softeners: These pull water into the intestines, softening stools

Stool softeners are a type of laxative called an emollient laxative. They are typically used to treat mild or occasional constipation. They are often the first method used to prevent and treat this type of constipation, especially when straining to have a bowel movement should be avoided, such as in the case of a recent heart attack or surgery.

Stool softeners work by increasing the amount of water and fat that the stool absorbs, making it softer and easier to pass. The active ingredients in stool softeners are docusate sodium and docusate calcium. A common brand of docusate is Colace.

Stool softeners can be taken orally or rectally. Orally, they come in the form of tablets, capsules, syrup, or liquid. Rectally, they come in the form of a rectal enema, which is injected directly into the rectum. They can also be taken as a suppository, which is inserted directly into the rectum and dissolves at body temperature.

It is important to follow the directions on the packaging when taking stool softeners. They are typically taken at bedtime and should not be taken for more than one week unless directed by a healthcare provider. Side effects may include stomach pain, nausea, diarrhoea, and throat irritation (from oral stool softeners).

In addition to medication, natural stool softeners can also be effective in treating mild constipation. These include lifestyle changes such as drinking more water, getting regular exercise, and increasing daily fibre intake.

Lubricant laxatives are an effective way to treat constipation, especially in patients eating blended food. Lubricants are designed to coat the colon, making it slick and slippery, which helps stool pass more easily. This type of laxative includes mineral oil, which adds a slick layer to the intestine's walls and prevents stool from drying out.

Lubricant laxatives are highly effective and are generally safe for short-term use. However, it is important to note that prolonged use of mineral oil can have some side effects. Over time, it can absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the intestine, and it may also reduce the absorption of certain prescription medications. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before taking any laxatives, especially for those who are pregnant, and to avoid taking mineral oil simultaneously with other medications or supplements.

Lubricant laxatives are available in liquid or enema form. It is typically recommended to take 1 tablespoon of mineral oil at breakfast or lunch, but not for more than a few consecutive days. To avoid leakage, it may be advisable to wear a protective pad in your undergarments.

Osmotic laxatives: These pull water into the bowels, making stools bulkier

Osmotic laxatives are a type of laxative that treats constipation by increasing the amount of fluid in the intestines, thereby softening stools and making them easier to pass. The term "osmotic" refers to the movement of fluid through a membrane so that the concentration is equal on both sides. Osmotic laxatives work by altering the balance of fluid in the colon, which is usually too low in cases of constipation, especially when an individual does not consume enough water.

Osmotic laxatives contain substances such as salts, sugars, and other organic compounds that encourage the movement of water into the colon. They are available over the counter and by prescription. Some common osmotic laxatives include:

• Polyethylene glycol (PEG): An organic compound derived from petroleum that can be safely ingested to manage constipation. Over-the-counter options include Miralax and GlycoLax.
• Lactulose: A type of sugar that is not absorbed by the intestine. It ferments in the intestines, producing fatty acids that draw water into the colon. Prescription options include Cephulac, Duphalac, and Kristalose.
• Sorbitol: A non-absorbable sugar with a similar action to lactulose. Over-the-counter and prescription versions are available, including Arlex and GeriCare.
• Magnesium citrate: Magnesium in salt form combined with citric acid. The salts help draw water into the colon. Over-the-counter versions include Citrate of Magnesia, Citroma, and LiquiPrep.
• Magnesium hydroxide: A milder form of magnesium sold under the brand name Milk of Magnesia. It is available over the counter and is also used as an antacid.

Osmotic laxatives are generally safe, but as with all drugs, they can cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, bloating, cramping, flatulence, and diarrhea. Overuse of osmotic laxatives can lead to dehydration and the loss of electrolytes like sodium, calcium, and potassium. Therefore, it is important to follow the dosing instructions carefully and only use a laxative when needed.

Stimulant laxatives are one of the five basic types of laxatives, alongside osmotic, bulk-forming, stool softeners, and lubricants. They are used to treat constipation and are one of the faster-acting types of laxatives.

Stimulant laxatives work by triggering the intestines to contract and push out the stool. The active ingredients are usually senna (also known as sennosides) or bisacodyl. They are available in various forms, including liquids, powders, chewables, tablets, and suppositories. Brand names include Senexon, Fletcher's Castoria, Senokot, Black Draught, Feen-A-Mint, Correctol, Dulcolax, and Carter's Little Pills.

It is important to note that stimulant laxatives should not be used for more than a week unless advised by a doctor. They can be habit-forming and harmful to the bowels if used for an extended period. They are not recommended for children under six years old unless instructed by a pediatrician.

Before taking stimulant laxatives, consult a doctor about any current health conditions, especially intestinal blockage, undiagnosed rectal bleeding, or signs of appendicitis. It is also important to inform the doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions