The foods that you eat and the liquids that you drink have many important functions within your body. One of those functions is to breakdown the food that you consume and ensure that you are able to get rid of your waste. Failure to eat properly or get the right amount of vitamins and minerals in your diet can lead to constipation. Constipation is the result of not being able to produce normal and frequent bowel movements. People that suffer from constipation know how painful and uncomfortable it can be. For this reason, there are many laxatives and stool softeners on the market that are designed to make constipation a thing of the past. However, knowing which one is best for you involves learning more about the differences between the two.
What Are Laxatives?
Laxatives are designed to make it easier to pass stool when individuals are experiencing constipation. Laxatives work by stimulating the intestines to help with waste removal. Some laxatives are bulk-forming and are not meant to be digested. These laxatives simply make your bowels moves due to the presence of the bulky substance. Other laxatives work to make the colon easier for waste to pass through. There are many different types of laxatives on the market and each works in a slightly different way.
What Are Stool Softeners?
Stool Softeners are often considered a type of laxative, but they are not designed for individuals experiencing constipation. Constipation is the inability to have a bowel movement, but stool soften is used when your stool is just too hard to pass through. This often is not caused by constipation and is simply due to your diet. Stool softeners work by simply softening the stool itself. This type of product is only designed for a short-term basis when stool is hardened. If you frequently have hard stool, you are urged to speak with your doctor.
What Is The Difference Between The Two?
Laxatives are designed to stimulate your intestines and make a bowel movement come, but stool softeners simply soften stool. These are slightly different functions, but it makes laxatives and stool softeners very different. Someone suffering from constipation should not use a stool softener. A laxative will offer more effective results. However, if your stool is simply hardened you should not use a laxative and simply find a stool softener.
