Final answer:
Habitual use of mineral oil laxatives can lead to side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and greasy stool. Severe use can cause dehydration and possibly malabsorption syndrome.
Step-by-step explanation:
The habitual use of mineral oil as a laxative can lead to several uncomfortable and potentially harmful side effects. These can include diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, gas, and greasy stool. If the use is severe, it can even lead to dehydration, which is a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention. In some cases, chronic use may result in malabsorption syndrome, where the body cannot absorb adequate nutrients from food, leading to various deficiencies and health issues.