As people age, common health issues like constipation become a frequent complaint. For relief, many turn to over-the-counter laxatives. But a recent study has found that the use of laxatives may increase the risk of developing dementia.

Research shows link between laxatives and dementia

The study, published in the medical journal JAMA Neurology, found that those who regularly use laxatives had a two-fold increased risk of developing dementia.

The research was conducted on a group of 59,288 participants who were over the age of 65 and had no history of dementia. Over the course of a 10-year period, the study monitored the laxative use of the participants and noted any cases of dementia that developed.

The researchers discovered that those who used laxatives more frequently had a higher risk of developing dementia.

Specifically, the study found that those who used laxatives daily had a 4.5-fold increased risk of developing dementia compared to those who used them less than once per week.

How do laxatives increase dementia risk?

The exact mechanisms behind how laxatives increase dementia risk are not yet fully understood. However, the study suggests that it may have to do with the potential damage that laxatives can cause to the intestinal lining.

Previous studies have suggested that the intestinal lining plays a role in brain health, as it is a source of several neurotransmitters that affect cognitive function.

Additionally, the study suggests that the use of laxatives may lead to dehydration, which is a known risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia.

Chronic dehydration has been found to cause damage to the brain, and may lead to the development of cognitive impairment over time.

Alternative treatments for constipation

The study’s findings may cause concern for those who currently use laxatives to treat constipation. However, there are alternative treatments that may be safer for brain health.

One such treatment is increasing fiber intake. Eating a diet rich in fiber can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. Foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are excellent sources of fiber.

Another alternative is increasing physical activity. Exercise has been shown to improve digestive health and regulate bowel movements. Regular exercise can also have a positive impact on brain health and cognitive function.

Lastly, it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare provider about other treatment options for constipation. They can help determine the underlying cause of the constipation and recommend treatment options that may be safer for brain health.

Conclusion

The study’s findings linking laxative use to dementia may be concerning for those who rely on laxatives to treat constipation.

However, there are alternative treatments available that may be safer for brain health, such as increasing fiber intake, exercising regularly, and speaking with a healthcare provider about other treatment options.