Laxative facts for kids

Glycerin suppositories used as laxatives.

A laxative is a type of medicine or food that helps your body have a bowel movement. Bowel movements are when your body gets rid of waste. Sometimes, people use laxatives when they are constipated. Constipation means it's hard to have a bowel movement, or you don't have them often enough.

Laxatives help your intestines move food waste along. They do not make you lose body weight. It's important to know that laxatives are not for losing weight. Using too many laxatives can make you feel sick or cause diarrhea.

What are Laxatives?

Laxatives are substances that help make bowel movements easier. They can be found in different forms, like pills, liquids, or even certain foods. People use them when their body needs a little help getting rid of waste. This is especially true if they are feeling blocked up or uncomfortable.

Why Do People Use Them?

The main reason people use laxatives is to treat constipation. Constipation happens when your bowel movements are not regular, or they are hard to pass. This can make your stomach feel bloated or sore. Laxatives can help get things moving again so you feel better.

How Do Laxatives Work?

Laxatives work in different ways to help your digestive system. Some types add more water to your stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Others make your intestines contract more, pushing the waste out. It's like giving your digestive system a gentle push to do its job.

Different Types of Laxatives

There are several kinds of laxatives, and they work in slightly different ways:

• Bulk-forming laxatives: These add fiber to your stool, making it bigger and softer. They are like adding more roughage to your diet.
• Osmotic laxatives: These pull water into your intestines. This makes your stool softer and easier to pass.
• Stimulant laxatives: These make the muscles in your intestines contract. This pushes the stool through faster.
• Stool softeners: These add moisture to the stool, making it less hard.

Important Things to Know

It's important to use laxatives carefully. They are meant for short-term relief of constipation. Using them too often or taking too many can cause problems. For example, it can lead to diarrhea, stomach cramps, or even make your body rely on them.

Laxatives are not a way to lose weight. They only help your body get rid of waste that is already there. They do not remove fat or calories from your body. If you are worried about your weight, it's best to talk to a trusted adult or a doctor. They can give you healthy advice.

See also

In Spanish: Laxante para niños