Dosage: It typically comes in a 400 mg tablet. For some people, 1 tablet a day is enough to relieve constipation. But many people take it 2 to 3 times a day.
Some individuals see better bowel movements with 200-500 mg of Magnesium gluconate, oxide or citrate in the morning and evening.
Magnesium is not a good choice for treating chronic constipation or constipation that requires ongoing treatment. Using it too often can lead to excessive dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Doctors often use higher doses of magnesium citrate as colon cleansers before surgery.
The maximum dose for Magnesium is 2 grams or 2000 milligrams. You should not take more than 4 tablets or capsules in one day. Magnesium comes in tablets and capsules (500 mg): take orally as directed by your doctor and take with a full 8-ounce glass of liquid. One Tablespoon of Milk of Magnesium is equal to 500 mg.
Magnesium citrate is a great option for people with constipation, as it can have a gentle laxative effect. This supplement works by pulling water into the intestines to make your bowel movements softer and easier to pass.
Magnesium can be an effective way to treat constipation. And many people prefer it to other laxatives. In the recommended doses, it's generally safe with few side effects.
However, milder products (such as stool softeners, bulk-forming laxatives) should be used whenever possible for constipation. Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that is thought to work by increasing fluid in the small intestine. It usually results in a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 3 hours.
A supplementation of 200 mg per day is often recommended to palliate this deficiency. Later we discuss how to use magnesium for constipation. In those instances, we will see that upping the doses to 500 to 1000 mg per day is often required.
There's a chance that taking extremely high doses of magnesium could have some harmful side effects. But as long as you stick to 400 mg or less a day from supplements, you shouldn't have any problems. Taking more than this isn't recommended unless you're under medical supervision.
The benefits of magnesium supplementation in healthy individuals aren't clear, but Dr. Nassar says that taking a magnesium supplement every day likely isn't unsafe for most people. Just be sure you're not taking too much magnesium. The maximum dietary allowance for most adults is around 400 mg or less.
Stool softener: Magnesium draws water into the intestines, working as an osmotic laxative. This increase in water stimulates bowel motion, or motility. It also softens and increases the size of the stool. This prompts a bowel movement and helps to make stools easier to pass.
Very low magnesium levels may cause:
Constipation. Headaches. Nighttime leg cramps. Numbness or tingling in the legs or hands.
Doses less than 350 mg daily are safe for most adults. In some people, magnesium might cause stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other side effects. When taken in very large amounts (greater than 350 mg daily), magnesium is POSSIBLY UNSAFE.
High doses of magnesium from supplements or medications can cause nausea, abdominal cramping and diarrhea.
Stomach problems: Remember that magnesium has a laxative effect. The first side effect of too much magnesium will probably be diarrhea, nausea, or even vomiting.
Avocado. Avocados have 58 mg of magnesium per fruit which is 16% of your needs for the day, and they also contain healthy fats (which are good for heart and brain health). Avocados are high in B vitamins and Vitamin K, and have more potassium than bananas.
Getting too much magnesium from the diet is not typically a cause for concern. Occasionally, a high dosage of magnesium from supplements or medications can cause mild symptoms of an overdose, including diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps.
Magnesium as a laxative can be taken to help relieve constipation. Depending on the individual, it can work quickly, taking between 30 minutes-3 hours to take effect. Should I take magnesium in the morning or at night? You can take magnesium to relieve constipation at any time.
Magnesium can usually be taken with or without food. However, depending on the reason you're taking magnesium citrate, your doctor might tell you to take it on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. Magnesium can be taken at any time of day.
Stop taking magnesium citrate and call your provider if you have rectal bleeding (blood that comes from your anus) or can't have a bowel movement after taking magnesium citrate. These could be signs of a more serious problem.
Metamucil® (Psyllium) treats constipation. It's a bulk-forming fiber laxative. In addition to taking this medication, increasing fiber in your diet may also help lower cholesterol and promote heart health.