Magnesium for Constipation Relief: Effective Strategies & Benefits

There are various causes for constipation, and there are various ways of treating it. One of the most popular treatments is increasing intake of the mineral magnesium. You can increase that intake by eating magnesium-rich foods or by using magnesium citrate as a laxative. Magnesium citrate is available in most drugstores.

Magnesium Citrate

• For fast constipation relief, magnesium citrate could be the answer. Magnesium citrate is a common laxative and is used to empty the bowel before a surgery or colonoscopy. Check with your doctor if you have any conditions or allergies, or you are taking other supplements or prescription medications.

Timing

• You should have a bowel movement from 30 minutes to six hours after taking a magnesium citrate solution. If you are still constipated or are having side effects after six hours, contact your doctor.
  Do not take magnesium citrate for more than a week unless your doctor tells you to. For long-term benefits, especially if you have chronic constipation, incorporate more magnesium in your diet.

Magnesium Found Naturally

• Magnesium can be found in many foods. To increase magnesium in your diet, eat more green vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Eat several servings of magnesium-rich foods daily, as the amount in a single food is usually small.