25 percent of the western population suffers from chronic constipation. This widespread disease leads to a considerable impairment of the quality of life and creates a high level of suffering among those affected.
The usual recommendations, i.e. more fiber, more exercise and plenty to drink, do not always lead to success, especially for people with chronic constipation. Experts then advise the use of laxatives. However, these should not have any side effects and should not be addictive.
Dietary changes and sports
The recommendations for constipation are always the same: more fiber, more physical activity and drinking plenty of fluids. However, in all cases, these measures are not enough to solve the problem. Scientists have found that less than half of patients improve their symptoms when they consume more fiber.
The tip to exercise more is similar: The study evidence on this is inconclusive. In bedridden individuals, constipation symptoms improve when they resume their normal daily activities. However, it is still unproven whether additional sporting activities can counteract constipation.
No guidebook for patients omits the suggestion that increased fluid intake can relieve constipation. However, there are no scientific data demonstrating that increasing daily drinking by one to two liters has a beneficial effect on constipation.
Laxatives
Nevertheless, recommendations for dietary and exercise changes should be followed initially. Only if these measures do not help in the medium term, it is recommended to reach for laxatives. In doing so, one should make sure that the chosen remedy is effective and well tolerated. Above all, long-term use should be possible without habituation. Furthermore, there should be no interactions with medicines and no flatulence or cramps. In particular, the body should not be deprived of water or minerals, as this can significantly damage health in the long term and exacerbate constipation.
As a rule, laxatives fulfill these numerous conditions only to a limited extent. A well-tolerated group of active ingredients appears to be macrogols in combination with minerals. These preparations do not affect the water and electrolyte balance and are therefore often recommended as the laxative of choice. Macrogols are usually taken in powder form together with water, soften and thin the stool in the large intestine, thus making it easier to excrete.
However, always discuss long-term use of a laxative with your doctor so that he or she can advise you of any interactions or side effects and dangers.
