Miralax Substitute

Constipation is not a laughing matter. Nobody likes to be unable to adequately empty their bowels, much alone pass solid stool that may be brutally uncomfortable.

Pharmaceutical firms created laxatives in response to the problems presented by constipation. Miralax is one of these laxatives, which is effective but not without side effects.

Miralax use may cause severe diarrhea or blood in the stools or rectum. People with an intestinal blockage or bowel obstruction, as well as those who are allergic to polyethylene glycol, are at risk of death.

However, if we look about, we will find that Mother Nature has a multitude of constipation treatments to offer. It is always essential to get the advice of a medical practitioner before deciding on a treatment option for constipation.

 

What is MiraLAX?

MiraLAX is a brand-named over-the-counter (OTC) medication. An osmotic laxative is a kind of laxative.

MiraLAX is used to alleviate constipation. It is often used for short-term relief, but it may also be used to treat chronic (long-term) constipation in certain cases. MiraLAX is also sometimes used to prepare the intestines for a colonoscopy.

Most individuals will have a bowel movement after one to three days of using MiraLAX. One research looked at those who had fewer than two bowel movements each week to evaluate how useful it was. MiraLAX users had 4.5 bowel movements per week, compared to 2.7 for placebo users.

MiraLAX was successful in treating 52 percent of those with chronic constipation in another research.

MiraLAX is a flavorless powder that you combine with four to eight ounces of water, juice, or another beverage to produce a drink. The powder is available in bottles or single-serve packets.

Top Substitutes of Miralax

1. Blackstrap Molasses

It is also known as blackstrap and is created by boiling pure cane sugar juice until it becomes black, which generally happens during the third boiling. Almost all of the sucrose in this form has crystallized, and it contains a lot of calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6, all of which are good for keeping you regular. Blackstrap molasses is an alkaline metal that improves stool production and motility by balancing stomach pH. Blackstrap molasses may be used as a sweetener in other meals and drinks, or it can be drunk directly with a teaspoon and diluted with water to conceal the flavor.

2. Fiber

On the label of many whole-grain products will be fiber and assists in regular digestion. Fiber has been demonstrated to aid digestion and evacuation, as well as the avoidance of certain health problems. Fiber comes in two varieties, both of which are necessary for a healthy digestive tract and the treatment of constipation:

Soluble fiber

Soluble fiber-rich foods dissolve in water and become gelatinous during digestion. This slows digestion, improves nutrient absorption, and makes feces larger and softer, making it simpler to remove. This kind of fiber also aids in the reduction of cholesterol and the regulation of blood sugar levels. Good sources include apples, oranges, barley, carrots, beans, lentils, and oats.

Fiber that is not soluble

Fiber may be found in whole grains, okra, peas, turnips, bran and wheat cereals, kidney, navy, and pinto beans. Insoluble fiber does not react with water and instead bulks up the stool, helping it to go more swiftly through the intestines. Regular use also reduces the likelihood of constipation and hemorrhoids.

Because the skins of numerous fruits and vegetables (especially apples) are rich in fiber, it is suggested that they be eaten without peeling. According to the American Dietetic Association, a daily fiber intake of 21 to 25 grams for women and 30 to 38 grams for men is recommended. Given the range of fiber sources available, maintaining the required daily amounts is straightforward. However, some individuals get cramps and flatulence after taking a lot of fiber. Drink lots of water and gradually increase your fiber intake over a few weeks to fight this.

3. Lemons

Lemons contain citric acid, which stimulates the digestive system. A glass of lemon juice, either immediately after waking up in the morning or after a meal, promotes digestion and evacuation by eliminating toxins and waste from the colon. A glass of water with a blend of lemon (or lemon essential oil) and several tablespoons of baking soda may also be used as a less costly but equally effective alternative. Baking soda works by neutralizing stomach acids and boosting gastrointestinal muscular contractions.

4. Oils

A number of oils may be used to relieve constipation, including:

Coconut Oil is a type of vegetable oil

Medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) included in coconut oil boost gut metabolic activity, resulting in quicker food digestion and more frequent bowel movements. The oil’s fibrous nature cleanses the colon and levels the pH level of the stomach, which are both useful to constipated individuals. The oil may be consumed in teaspoons directly from the bottle, blended with a glass of natural fruit juice, or used as a healthier alternative to cooking oil.

Olive Oil

Antioxidants, vitamins E and K, iron, omega-3 and 6 fatty acids all help to digestive health. The viscosity of olive oil, along with its monounsaturated oil content, serves as a lubricant, accelerating bowel clearance and strengthening the colon’s mucous lining, which is injured by hard stool. More importantly, olive oil stimulates gallbladder bile secretion and intestinal muscle contraction, facilitating fat breakdown and softening stools. This, like coconut oil, may be consumed alone or combined with other liquids.

What is the Dosage of MiraLAX?

Several variables influence MiraLAX dose. Here are a few examples:

MiraLAX is used because of the age of the person who is using it.

In general, the least dose necessary to provide the desired effect should be employed.

The following information details commonly used or recommended doses. If you’re unsure how much to take, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Dosage for infants, toddlers, and children

Before giving MiraLAX to your kid, consult with his or her physician. They will be able to recommend the appropriate MiraLAX dose for your kid. The manufacturer of MiraLAX does not provide this information. They suggest getting a doctor’s approval for children’s dosage.

It’s also a good idea to consult with your kid’s doctor, who may want to assess your child to see what’s causing the constipation. Depending on the reason, further therapy may be necessary.

Adults should take

Adults often take MiraLAX in 17-gram dosages. A measuring cap or other device will be supplied with the product to help you determine the right dosage.

Once a day, the powder is mixed with and dissolved in four to eight ounces of water or similar beverage.

What are the Serious Negative Consequences of MiraLAX?

If you notice any significant side effects, call your doctor right away. Dial 911 if your symptoms are life-threatening or you feel you have a medical emergency. The following are some instances of significant side effects and symptoms:

Dehydration. Dehydration and fluid loss may occur as a result of MiraLAX diarrhea. Diarrhea and dehydration are more prevalent among the elderly. The following symptoms may be caused by dehydration:

• thirst
• fatigue
• dizziness
• confusion
• irritation due to dry mouth
• When crying, there are no tears (in children)
• For several hours, no wet diapers (in children)
• Allergic reactions are rather frequent. MiraLAX may induce allergic reactions in certain individuals, however this is unusual. In rare cases, allergic responses may be severe, leading to anaphylaxis. Allergic responses may result in a rash and itching of the skin.
• breathing difficulties caused by a runny nose, swelling lips, tongue, or throat

Diarrhea

As a side effect, MiraLAX may produce diarrhea or loose stools. If you take more than the recommended quantity, you are more likely to get diarrhea, which is more prevalent among seniors.

In one research, around 11% of those receiving MiraLAX for chronic constipation had diarrhea as a side effect. According to Trusted Source, around 13% of seniors experienced diarrhea. If you get diarrhea, you may need to lower your dose.

Bloating

Bloating has been reported by some MiraLAX users. Bloating was noted as a side effect by around 3% of people using MiraLAX for chronic constipation in one study. This negative effect may reduce or vanish with continued use of MiraLAX.

Nausea

Some MiraLAX users report nausea. In one study, around 6% of those using MiraLAX for persistent constipation had nausea as a side effect. This negative effect may reduce or vanish with continued use of MiraLAX.

Gaining weight

MiraLAX has been connected to weight gain in certain people. It’s uncertain if MiraLAX is to blame for the weight gain.

Headache

When using MiraLAX, some people have experienced headaches. It’s uncertain if MiraLAX is causing the headaches.

MiraLAX is Recommended for Which Kind of Applications?

MiraLAX is approved to temporarily treat constipation. It is also indicated for other reasons.

Constipation relief with MiraLAX

MiraLAX is approved for the short-term treatment of constipation in adults and adolescents aged 17 and above.

Your doctor may also prescribe it to treat constipation in younger children, such as newborns under the age of two.

Do not take MiraLAX for more than seven days without first visiting a doctor. Your doctor may want to investigate what is causing your constipation, and you may need extra therapy.

MiraLAX is widely recommended by doctors for the treatment of chronic (long-term) constipation. The American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons both suggest MiraLAX as an effective first-line therapy for persistent constipation.

Preparing for a colonoscopy with MiraLAX

MiraLAX may be recommended by your doctor for colonoscopy bowel preparation. In preparation for a colonoscopy, this procedure clears the contents of your gastrointestinal system. According to one research, MiraLAX is good for this purpose, although it may not be as effective as other options.

If your doctor prescribes MiraLAX for bowel preparation, you will be given precise instructions on how to take it. This might need the usage of extra medications.

MiraLAX is a medication that is used to treat IBS.

MiraLAX may help people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) who are constipated. MiraLAX may aid with constipation, but it has not been proved to aid in the treatment of other IBS symptoms such as stomach upset or discomfort.

MiraLAX is a treatment for diverticulitis.

Diverticulitis may induce constipation in certain people. If you have diverticulitis and constipation, see your doctor. For constipation, your doctor may give MiraLAX or other laxatives, as well as other therapies.

What are the Warnings of MiraLAX?

Before using MiraLAX, talk to your doctor about your medical history. If you have certain medical problems, MiraLAX may not be good for you.

MiraLAX and other laxatives may cause electrolyte imbalances in people with kidney disease; however, this is rare. People who have renal illness may see their health deteriorate. If you have kidney disease, see your doctor before taking MiraLAX or other laxatives.

Consult your doctor before taking MiraLAX or other laxatives if you have stomach problems such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, or stomach pain. Your doctor may need to analyze the reason of your symptoms before determining if MiraLAX or other laxatives are safe for you.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients should be aware that MiraLAX and other laxatives may aggravate their symptoms. If you have IBS, see your doctor before taking MiraLAX or other laxatives.

MiraLAX may induce choking in those who have difficulties swallowing. Consult your doctor before taking MiraLAX if you have trouble swallowing.

Conclusion

MiraLAX is a medication used to temporarily treat constipation. By keeping water in the stool, it softens the stool and increases the number of bowel movements. It is known as an osmotic laxative. This medication is also available without a prescription. If you are self-medicating with this medication, you must carefully read the manufacturer’s packaging instructions to determine when you should seek medical attention. Checkout Healthy Substitute for Half and Half