Magnesium help with constipation

Does magnesium help with constipation from calcium?

According to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, people take magnesium to prevent or treat magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is also used as a laxative for constipation and for preparation of the bowel for surgical or diagnostic procedures. In the stomach, magnesium helps neutralize stomach acid and move stools through the intestines. In fact, some antacids, such as Mylanta or Maalox, combine magnesium and aluminum to work on the stomach and maintain normal bowel function as the laxative effects of magnesium balance the potential constipating effects of aluminum. Calcium is generally safe for most people when taken in recommended doses. Calcium can cause some minor side effects, such as belching or gas. Calcium supplements can decrease the absorption of dietary magnesium, but only at very high doses (2600 mg per day). For people with normal levels of magnesium, calcium does not have any clinically significant effect. Constipation can occur for many reasons. Before taking any action, such as changing or stopping your medications or supplements, talk to your doctor about your symptoms of constipation. In general, the first steps to treating constipation are eating high-fiber foods, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising. Laxatives are intended for short-term use. If you are concerned about your constipation.