Laxatives are not recommended for weight loss as they are ineffective and can cause adverse effects. Although people may feel "lighter" temporarily, there is no evidence to support the use of laxatives as a safe or effective weight loss method. Laxatives treat constipation by softening the stool or stimulating bowel movements. Misusing laxatives for weight loss may cause side effects such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and dangerous health conditions. Laxatives do not reduce body fat or promote long-term weight loss. Even at high doses, stimulant laxatives, which encourage the movement of stool through the digestive tract, have only a temporary effect on weight loss. Losing water is not the same as losing body fat, and the weight loss from laxative use is temporary.
Therefore, it is not recommended to use laxatives for weight loss. Instead, it is important to focus on making sustainable lifestyle changes such as eating a nutritious, balanced diet that consists mostly of whole foods, increasing physical activity each day, doing regular exercise, and practicing self-care to improve body image.
