Menlo Park, CA
A 24-year-old female asked:
Does mineral oil laxative have calories? i am told it does not because it is not absorbed.
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. Charles Cattanoanswered
Gastroenterology 40 years experience
You're correct!: Unlike edible oils which provide about 120 calories per 1 tbsp., your body cannot digest mineral oil. Therefore, mineral oil contains effectively no usable calories. The tone of your question raises concern that you may be using this laxative for weight loss--please don't!
4.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 13, 2014
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