Laxatives are medicines that help with constipation when eating more fiber, drinking plenty of water, and exercising don’t work.
Many people use them, especially as they get older. However, a recent study suggests that taking laxatives regularly might raise the risk of developing dementia.
Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences analyzed data from over 500,000 people in the UK Biobank, none of whom had dementia at the start of the study.
Among them, about 18,000 people (or 3.6%) reported using laxatives most days of the week.
After tracking them for an average of 10 years, scientists found that 1.3% of regular laxative users developed dementia, compared to 0.4% of those who didn’t take laxatives often.
After considering factors like age, sex, education, and medical history, researchers concluded that regular laxative users had a 51% higher chance of developing dementia than those who rarely or never used them. The risk was even greater for people who used osmotic laxatives, a type that draws water into the colon to soften stools.
Laxatives come in different types, including bulk-forming, stool-softening, stimulant, and osmotic laxatives. Some are meant for occasional use, while others can be used more often. However, osmotic and stimulant laxatives are generally not recommended for regular use, yet many people rely on them.
Scientists don’t know for sure why laxatives might be linked to dementia. One theory is that frequent use changes the gut microbiome—the collection of bacteria in the digestive system—which may affect the brain.
Another possibility is that certain substances produced in the gut could harm brain cells. However, this study only shows a connection between laxatives and dementia; it does not prove that laxatives directly cause the disease.
Since constipation is common in middle-aged and older adults, people should be cautious about how often they use laxatives. If needed, safer alternatives include eating more fiber, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise.
How to Lower Dementia Risk
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, some lifestyle habits can help protect brain health:
- Stay mentally active: Reading, solving puzzles, or learning new skills can strengthen the brain.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain and may lower dementia risk.
- Eat a healthy diet: The Mediterranean diet—rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and fish—has been linked to better brain health.
- Manage chronic conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can increase the risk of dementia, so keeping them under control is important.
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep per night, as poor sleep has been linked to cognitive decline.
- Reduce stress: Chronic stress can harm the brain. Activities like meditation, exercise, and deep breathing may help.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol: Both are linked to a higher risk of dementia. Quitting smoking and drinking in moderation can make a difference.
Some studies also suggest that certain nutrients, like Vitamin B9, and foods rich in flavonoids and antioxidants may help protect memory.
This study, led by Feng Sha and published in Neurology, raises an important question about the long-term effects of laxative use. While more research is needed, people who take laxatives regularly may want to talk to their doctor about safer ways to manage constipation.
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