A fresh TikTok trend has caused a shortage of laxatives in the United States. On social media, people are calling these laxatives the “Budget Ozempic,” endorsing them as a speedy way to shed pounds. Ozempic is typically used to treat type-2 diabetes but has gained popularity as a weight loss aid, though it can be pricey.
Influencers on TikTok suggest that over-the-counter stool softeners are a cheaper and equally effective option for weight loss. However, nutritionists strongly disagree, warning of the serious health risks associated with this trend.
Registered nutritionist Anna Mapson is deeply concerned about this trend, saying it’s “really worrying.” She argues that not only are laxatives ineffective for weight loss, but they can also be hazardous. One immediate risk is dehydration, as laxatives can disrupt the body’s natural nutrient absorption process.
Dehydration can lead to dizziness, fatigue, and reduced physical activity, making it harder to manage body weight. Laxative misuse can also result in unpleasant side effects such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and excess gas.
Long-term laxative misuse poses even more severe health risks. It can cause a loss of essential electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and sodium, potentially impacting kidney function and becoming life-threatening. Moreover, it may lead to damage to the gut and liver.
The dark downsides to laxative use
Nutritionist Tony Cottenden shares these concerns, emphasizing that nutrient malabsorption due to laxatives can lead to deficiencies in vital nutrients affecting bone health and immune function. Laxative misuse isn’t confined to the physical realm; it can have cardiovascular and psychological implications too.
Electrolyte imbalances induced by laxative misuse can directly impact cardiovascular health, potentially causing irregular heartbeats, high blood pressure, and even heart failure. Psychologically, relying on laxatives for temporary weight loss can create a dependency, contributing to the development of eating disorders and other mental health issues.
However, using laxatives for weight loss is not only dangerous but also ineffective. The weight loss achieved is mainly due to fluid loss, which the body quickly replaces when you eat or drink. This form of weight loss is temporary and doesn’t equate to fat loss, which requires a caloric deficit through diet and exercise.
Another misconception is that laxatives speed up the removal of calories from the body. In reality, food stays in the digestive tract for an extended period, so laxatives mainly affect yesterday’s meals, not the one you’ve just consumed.
In conclusion, the use of laxatives for weight loss is based on a misunderstanding of their function and what constitutes meaningful weight loss. While they may lead to temporary weight reduction due to water loss, they are neither effective nor safe for achieving long-term weight management goals.
@queeenletitia
