WAYS TO STOP ABUSING LAXATIVES:

This protocol is appropriate if you are having mild-moderate diarrhea, meaning an increase of 1-6 stools over your normal. If you were taking laxatives for constipation and then got diarrhea, stop the laxatives and DO NOT start the loperamide.

Castor oil typically causes a bowel movement to occur in 2 to 3 hours. However, it may take up to 6 hours to work for some people. Due to the delayed effects of castor oil, avoid taking it before bedtime.

1. Stop taking laxatives right away.
2. Drink at least 6 to 10 cups of water a day.
3. Include physical activity in the daily routine to regulate bowel function.
4. Eat regularly, optimally three times a day.
5. Eat foods that naturally promote more normal bowel movements.

Laxatives work in different ways, and the effectiveness of each laxative type varies from person to person. 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.

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.

A:When you are constipated, it’s best to avoid foods that are low in fiber and high in fat. This includes cheese, ice cream, potato chips, frozen meals, red meat, and hamburgers and hot dogs. Many processed foods have little to no fiber and will stall food passing through the bowel.

Everyone’s bowels respond to foods differently, but the following healthful, natural foods can help to relieve constipation:

• Water.
• Yogurt and kefir.
• Pulses.
• Clear soups.
• Prunes.
• Wheat bran.
• Broccoli.
• Apples and pears.