Vitamin C deficiency can cause constipation by reducing the production of collagen, which is necessary for the proper functioning of the intestinal lining. Vitamin C also acts as a natural laxative by increasing the water content in the stool.
Vitamins and minerals do not have a major role in treating constipation. However, some people may experience constipation as a result of a vitamin deficiency, such as vitamin B-12 deficiency. In those situations, a vitamin supplement may help relieve constipation.
Constipation occurs when bowel movements become less frequent and stools become difficult to pass. It happens most often due to changes in diet or routine, or due to inadequate intake of fiber.
The most commonly-cited culprits include: Iron [1] Calcium [2] Folic acid [3]
Causes of constipation
not eating enough fibre, such as fruit, vegetables and cereals. a change in your routine or lifestyle, such as a change in your eating habits. having limited privacy when using the toilet. ignoring the urge to pass stools.
Magnesium helps to increase the amount of water in the intestines, which can help with bowel movements. It may be used as a laxative due to these properties, or as a supplement for magnesium deficiency.
Bulk-forming fiber supplements include calcium polycarbophil (Equilactin, Fibercon), methylcellulose fiber (Citrucel), and psyllium (Fiber-Lax, Konsyl, Metamucil), and wheat dextrin (Benefiber). Unlike other laxatives, you can take these every day.
Chronically low levels can increase your risk of high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis. Very low magnesium levels may cause: Nausea. Constipation.
The most common causes include: not eating enough fibre, which is found in fruits, vegetables and cereals. not drinking enough fluids. not moving enough and spending long periods sitting or lying down.
You might lose your appetite, drop too much weight, or have trouble pooping (constipation). If your B12 levels are low, your doctor will often inject it into a muscle to be sure your body absorbs it.
One magnesium pill of 350 mg per day of magnesium supplement is felt safe for healthy adults. Some individuals see better bowel movements with 200-500 mg of Magnesium gluconate, oxide or citrate in the morning and evening. The dose for magnesium is individual, so begin low and increase the dosage as needed.
Magnesium citrate -- Magnesium citrate is the most popular magnesium supplement, probably because it is inexpensive and easily absorbed. Since citric acid is a mild laxative, magnesium citrate functions as a constipation aid as well as a magnesium source.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG® (or LGG® as it is more commonly known) is a very well-known and well-researched strain of probiotic bacteria with a range of known health benefits, some of which are suggested to include reducing occasional 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.
People with diabetes, intestinal disease, heart disease or kidney disease should not take magnesium before speaking with their health care provider. Overdose. Signs of a magnesium overdose can include nausea, diarrhea, low blood pressure, muscle weakness, and fatigue. At very high doses, magnesium can be fatal.