Laxatives effects on the gut microbiotaUpdated 2 years ago

Yes, the test will give an accurate reading of the bacteria even on certain medications.  While specific occasional medications such as PPIs or NSAIDS can alter the microbiome, physician-recommended daily medications should not be stopped to test.

Should one need to use interventions to pass a sample, please review the content below to see how different types of laxatives affect the biome.

The occasional use of laxatives should not drastically affect the microbial population. Bulk-forming laxatives do have a more positive effect on the flora. Combining the use of laxatives (if needed) with strain-specific probiotics, consumption of prebiotic type fiber rich foods, polyphenols (berries), and omega-3 (oily fish: salmon, trout, sardines, mackerel, tuna, and herring) can help limit any damage to the gut flora if laxative use is needed more often. 

Types of laxatives: 

• Bulk-forming laxatives are dietary fiber and increase fecal mass. These have a well-known positive impact on the bacteria of the gut flora. Examples of bulk forming laxatives include: psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). 

• Osmotic laxatives, including alcohol sugars (mannitol, sorbitol, etc.), draw water to the intestine to soften the stools. Examples are Polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX, Dulcolax Balance), Lactulose (Constulose, Enulose, Generlac, Kristalose), Sorbitol, Magnesium citrate (Citroma), and milk of magnesia.

• Lubricant laxatives (mineral oil, paraffin oil, etc.) surround the stools with a thin lubricant layer, allowing the contents of the large intestine to evacuate more easily.

• Stimulant laxatives increase intestinal motility.