Dealing with Constipation - Laxatives in Studies


Dealing with chronic issues is always a frustrating and long process, and one of these issues that many deal with is constipation. Laxatives come in many varieties and use different mechanisms, so it is important to find one that is gentle on your colon especially for long term use. Constipation is also characterized in different ways:

• Incomplete evacuation
• Bowel movements less than 3 times a week
• Straining with bowel movements
• Hard and painful stools

Each of the above symptoms could indicate that your digestive tract is not functioning as intended. Relief of constipation could begin with changing your diet by increasing liquids and fiber, but when you are dealing with chronic constipation, diet changes alone are usually not sufficient.


Relief for Constipation – Laxatives That Are in Research Studies


When you decide to use a dietary supplement, you should discuss it with your doctor first. But, doctors often are not familiar with all research out there for all ingredients, so doing your own research to see what kind of research is available can help you determine what supplements will work best for your constipation. Laxatives that have been researched could be herbal or synthetic. One of these herbs that have been used for centuries is Glucomannan.


Glucomannan for Constipation – Laxatives That are Herbal


One of the studies done with glucomannan on constipation treatment was a placebo-controlled study done in Taiwan. The study consisted of a period prior to the supplement consumption to establish bowel patterns. Then a 7 day period where the subjects took glucomannan supplement progressively. This was followed by a 21 day period where the subjects consumed 1.5g of glucomannan with every meal (for a total of 4.5g daily). Patients were purposely consuming a typical low fiber diet. Stools were collected and analyzed to see what effect did the supplement have on the patients’ constipation.

The study found several improvements in the digestive tract that bring constipation relief:


  • Bowel movement frequency increased – the subjects were defecating more often than during the placebo period

  • Wet and dry stool weight increased –the glucomannan supplement helped increase the stool by increasing the plant matter as well as soluble fiber in the stool

  • Probiotic (beneficial) bacteria count increased – the best part about the glucomannan supplement is that it increased beneficial bacteria count, which is a long term solution for constipation. Laxatives that only treat symptoms and not the causes cannot offer the benefit of long-term constipation relief.


Glucomannan offered an all around constipation relief that provides additional benefits because of its ability to feed the good bacteria in the colon. This will help you with the gas, bloating, indigestion, and any other symptoms you may have with your constipation. Laxatives that can help you with all symptoms are key in your treatment plan.