Mineral Oil For Constipation

There are so many kinds of laxatives available mostly these laxatives are expensive probably because more and more people are buying laxative to ease constipation. Mineral oil is different. Mineral oil laxative is safe and cheaper too. Mineral oil works by lubricating the stools so that it can pass through the anus easily. Before, I didn’t know mineral oil can be used as laxative, because I often use it to strengthen my hair and to make my hair shiny. Until I went to Medical school it was only then I learned that mineral oil can also be used as laxative. Aside from its good effect to hair it is also beneficial to our digestive system.

Not everyone is having bowel movement everyday. The meaning of constipation varies from individual’s activity, metabolism, age and weight. Usually a normal bowel movement may range from 3 times a week to 3 times a day. In my case having a bowel movement 2 to 3 times a day may mean that I am suffering from diarrhea, but to others having a bowel movement of up to 3 times a day is normal. Once a day bowel movement is normal to most of us but to some, once a day bowel movement is already considered as constipation. Why? It depends on one’s metabolism. There are people that their metabolism works faster than the other so they move out bowels so easily and frequently. There are also those whose metabolism are slow that makes their bowel movement slower also. Strenuous activity can make peristalsis movement faster than the normal peristalsis movement so therefore those who are engaged in strenuous activity such as sports, aerobics and running may have a bowel movement that is frequent. But neither is considered an abnormal bowel movement.

Constipation is diagnosed by pasty yet dry stool, bowel incontinence and inability or difficult to remove bowel even when the urge to remove is felt. How can a mineral oil work in treating constipation? Mineral oils cover the surface of the bowel to smoothen it. When our bowel is covered with mineral oil, excess water cannot absorb the intestinal wall. Since extra water cannot enter our intestine there is no other way out but to go along with the stools and soften it and then excreted to the anus. As simple as that.

Mineral oil is best taken during bed time. Usually its effect may come after 7 to 8 hours. When you take it at around 9pm, you will be needing service of a toilet bowl by 4am to 5am which is just right to start a great day. Mineral oil should be taken 3 to 4 tablespoons with water and it should be taken 2 hours after dinner because it can interfere in absorbing nutrients. Mineral is taken alone. It is not taken together with any forms laxatives. Remember that mineral oil is a laxative. Laxatives tends to make a habit forming therefore do not use mineral oil in a daily basis.

Too much use of mineral oil causes diarrhea so it is recommended that when taking mineral oil, you should also drink lot of water to compensate with electrolyte loss. If you are hesitant enough to try mineral oil it is wiser to seek the help of a doctor before taking in any forms of laxatives.