If you take a distribution from your retirement plan early (meaning before the day you turn 59 1/2) you will generally have to pay a 10% early distribution tax above and beyond any regular income taxes you may owe on the money.
Adding vegetable fiber to your diet will help stop diarrhea from a high protein eating plan. A high protein diet can cause gastric distress and diarrhea due to a lack of fiber, an over-consumption of dairy products such as cheese or cream, or highly processed manufactured low carb snack foods. Chronic diarrhea can lead to dehydration and an electrolyte imbalance, causing mineral loss.
You're right to be wary of laxatives; with over-use, laxatives can damage the intestines, cause dependence, and actually worsen constipation. An exception is bulk-forming laxatives like oat bran or fiber-rich supplements such as Metamucil, FiberCon, and Citrucel, which are safe to use occasionally. However, fiber supplements can cause bloating, gas, or cramping at first and they can also lead to diarrhea, dehydration, or dependence with continued use.