A public mental health facility in the Aube department has significantly reduced the use of medications by changing the breakfast menu, according to recent reports. La Fontaine de l'Orme in Brienne-le-Château introduced dietary adjustments in 2025 that have led to a notable decrease in the consumption of laxatives, which were among the most frequently used medications in the Hôpitaux Champagne Sud group. Residents like Line, who has both physical and mental disabilities, have said they no longer need enema treatments for intestinal blockages, which were previously used as a last resort. The dietary change focused on increasing fiber in breakfast options, such as whole grain bread and fiber-rich cereals. Fabienne Leguay, a pharmacist at the facility, explained that laxatives were previously overused, with nearly 1 in 10 medications being laxatives. This overuse can lead to a dependency where the colon becomes less active, which is not ideal in the long term. The initiative also had environmental benefits, reducing the carbon footprint linked to medication production. The average emissions from active ingredients in medications are estimated at 65 kgCO₂e per kilogram, which is much higher than the carbon intensity of cement. The reduction in laxative use at the facility saved the equivalent of nearly two laps around the Earth by car in one year. Clarisse Martin, the dietician at the facility, said the menu changes were needed because many residents had difficulty swallowing, which often resulted in purees with less fiber. The facility has focused on offering fiber-rich options, especially in cereals and bread, which are preferred by residents at breakfast. The initiative also led to cost savings, with 2,589 euros saved in the first year. Sandrine Alanièce, the hygiene manager and sustainable development officer, emphasized the importance of these savings in gaining support from management. However, other facilities, such as a neighboring Ehpad with 130 residents, still use more laxatives than during the pre-protocol period of the care home, indicating that the change in medication practices has not been universally adopted.