Laxatives And Diuretics No Way To Control Weight

Q. My niece takes laxatives and diuretics weekly to stay in drill team weight range. Is this dangerous?
A. Both laxatives and diuretics (water pills) can deplete the body of essential minerals. If potassium and magnesium drop too much, she could suffer muscle cramps or even irregular heart rhythms. This could be especially dangerous if she is marching in warm weather, when sweating might cause further mineral loss.