The body needs fluid to remove wastes and toxins, so retaining fluids will make you feel bad because you can’t get rid of all of the waste products normally evacuated. At this point patients might be tempted to take more laxatives to get rid of the full feeling again. It’s a vicious cycle that sets patients up to be at risk for irritable bowel syndrome and colon tumors. Prolonged use of laxatives can also lead to cramping, bloating, water retention and the added problem of withdrawal.
The use of laxatives to promote weight loss is not recommended. Those that do are endangering their health and won’t be moving toward achieving this goal. The abuse of laxatives should be discontinued using several steps. Unless they are prescribed by a doctor you should stop using laxatives immediately. This may be easier said than done and may require the help of a mental health professional.