In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category.
MiraLAX ® is the #1 doctor-recommended choice for many reasons. In fact, it has been the #1 doctor-recommended brand since it went on the market as an OTC laxative in 2007. MiraLAX ® is recommended more often than any other laxative.
Try natural laxatives that work fast for constipation relief, which include: aloe vera, leafy greens, chia and flax seeds, high fiber fruits, probiotic foods, and coconut water. Also make sure to drink plenty of water/fluids when consuming natural laxatives, since these work with high fiber foods to help soften stool.
While all the new prescription products provide more treatment options, Wald says, most people don't need them. Instead, over-the-counter drugs such as polyethylene glycol (Miralax and generic), bisacodyl (Dulcolax laxative tablets and generic), or senna (Ex-Lax, Senokot, and generic) are a far better choice.
Osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol (brand name Miralax) are well-tolerated by most older adults, and can be used daily.
Many age-related problems (e.g., decreased mobility, comorbid medical conditions, increased use of medications with a side effect profile that includes constipation, and changes in diet) may contribute to the increased prevalence of constipation in older adults.
Bulk-forming fiber supplements include calcium polycarbophil (Equilactin, Fibercon), methylcellulose fiber (Citrucel), and psyllium (Fiber-Lax, Konsyl, Metamucil), and wheat dextrin (Benefiber). Unlike other laxatives, you can take these every day. They make the stool bigger and softer.
Senokot vs.
And they both work within 6 to 12 hours when taken orally. Dulcolax suppositories work faster, usually within 15 to 60 minutes. Dulcolax can cause cramping, stomach pain, and diarrhea. This can also happen with Senokot, but it may be better tolerated.
Magnesium citrate is a powerful natural laxative. Magnesium citrate has been shown to be more bioavailable and better absorbed in the body than other forms of magnesium, such as magnesium oxide ( 40 ). Magnesium citrate increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract, which causes a bowel movement ( 41 ).
Metamucil is made with psyllium husk, a plant-based fiber that helps promote digestive health and regularity. * It also acts as a non-stimulant laxative that relieves occasional constipation, generally helping you produce a bowel movement in 12 to 72 hours.
Try a combination of oatmeal and flax meal. Flax meal is ground flax seeds, which are extremely rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. You can further increase the fiber factor by stirring in some raisins. Dried fruit is very high in fiber too.
Prunes act as a natural laxative, owing to its high content of fiber and sorbitol. Both these nutrients add bulk to your stool, making it easier to go. Apples and plums are good alternatives too owing to their high fiber content, especially in their skins.
The "laxative habit"—Laxative products are overused by many people. Such a practice often leads to dependence on the laxative action to produce a bowel movement. In severe cases, overuse of some laxatives has caused damage to the nerves, muscles, and tissues of the intestines and bowel.
Insoluble fiber is the most beneficial for softening stools. It does not dissolve in water and helps food pass more quickly from the stomach to the intestines. Wholewheat flour, nuts, beans, and vegetables, such as cauliflower, green beans, and potatoes all contain insoluble fiber.
Stimulant laxatives are usually taken on an empty stomach for rapid effect. Results are slowed if taken with food. Many stimulant laxatives (but not castor oil) are often taken at bedtime to produce results the next morning (although some may require 24 hours or more).
Whole wheat bread, pasta, bran and cereals – Adding weight to stools to speed up passing through the intestines, whole wheat foods are a great way to encourage bowel movements. A clever way to add even more fibre to your diet is to choose whole wheat bread and cereals that contain nuts and seeds.
The best way to stay regular is to exercise, eat a healthy, fiber-rich diet, and drink plenty of water. But if you have trouble going, certain foods can help. It's not the only factor, but fiber -- which adds to the size and water content of your stool -- is key.
Metamucil (psyllium) is a natural fiber that is cheap and effective at relieving constipation. Relieves occasional constipation. Senokot (senna) is gentle and effective for occasional constipation, but it can't be used as a long-term treatment.
Over-the-counter stool softeners are effective for some people. However, in controlled clinical trials, there is no evidence that they improve symptoms. While they only are intended for short-term relief of constipation, using a daily stool softener long-term probably is not harmful.
Magnesium helps to increase the amount of water in the intestines, which can help with bowel movements. It may be used as a laxative due to these properties, or as a supplement for magnesium deficiency.
Bulk-forming laxatives.
They are considered the safest type of laxative and the only type that might be recommended for daily use. Examples are psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel).