Recent studies show that regular use of over the counter laxatives has been linked to an increased risk of dementia. Among 500,000 middle to older aged adults, those who used laxatives regularly had a 51% increased risk of dementia. Those using multiple types of laxatives, such as bulk-forming, stool-softening, or stimulating laxatives, has a 90% increased risk of dementia.
Researchers found that regular laxative use can affect the microbiome of your gut, affecting nerve signaling to the brain or potentially increasing the production of intestinal toxins that can affect the brain.
Sources:
Brooks, Megan. “Regular Laxative Use Tied to Increased Dementia Risk.” Medscape, https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/988727.
