Regular laxative use linked with greater dementia risk, new study says
A new study published in the journal JAMA Neurology has found a link between regular laxative use and an increased risk of developing dementia. The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of California San Diego, analyzed data from more than 3,000 participants aged 65 and older over a period of more than 10 years.
The study found that participants who reported using laxatives regularly were more likely to develop dementia than those who did not use laxatives. Specifically, the risk of developing dementia was 47% higher among those who used laxatives regularly compared to those who did not.
The researchers also found that the risk of dementia was higher among participants who used certain types of laxatives, including stimulant laxatives and combination laxatives. These types of laxatives are known to cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which may contribute to cognitive decline.
The findings of this study are concerning, as laxatives are a commonly used medication among older adults. Many older adults experience constipation and other digestive issues, and may turn to laxatives as a solution. However, this study suggests that regular use of laxatives may have unintended consequences for cognitive health.
It is important to note that this study does not prove causation, and more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between laxative use and dementia risk. However, the findings do suggest that older adults should be cautious when using laxatives and should talk to their healthcare providers about alternative solutions for digestive issues.
In addition, this study highlights the importance of maintaining good overall health in order to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Older adults should focus on maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity in order to support their cognitive health.
Overall, the findings of this study underscore the need for further research into the potential risks of laxative use, and highlight the importance of promoting healthy lifestyle habits among older adults in order to support cognitive health and reduce the risk of dementia.