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How many mg of magnesium citrate for constipation. Magnesium Citrate Benefits, Including for Constipation

What are the benefits of magnesium citrate? How much magnesium citrate should you take for constipation? Get the facts on the uses and dosage of this mineral supplement.

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What is Magnesium Citrate?

Magnesium citrate is an over-the-counter magnesium preparation made with a combination of salt and citric acid. It is sometimes described as a “saline laxative” because it effectively works to relieve constipation and clear out the intestines, thanks to its ability to increase water and fluids in the small intestine. However, treating occasional constipation is not the only use for magnesium citrate supplements — they are also taken for nutritional support.

Health Benefits of Magnesium Citrate

1. Can Help Treat Constipation and Clear Out the Intestines

Does magnesium citrate make you poop and provide constipation relief? Yes, it usually results in a bowel movement within 30 minutes to eight hours, depending on the type you take and the dosage. Lower doses are recommended for daily use to help with regularity, in addition to sticking with other healthy diet and lifestyle habits. Higher doses are used only once or for several days if being used for medical reasons, such as for a colonoscopy. If a high dose is taken you can expect to have a bowel movement within about three hours.

Magnesium citrate pulls water into the intestines due to its chemical structure. Magnesium and citric acid have oppositely charged atoms, which causes an osmotic effect to take place in your digestive tract when you consume them together. This means that water enters the intestines and becomes absorbed by the stools. This helps lubricate the GI tract and soften stools, making it easier to pass a bowel movement.

2. Can Help Prevent Magnesium Deficiency Symptoms

Taking magnesium citrate is one way to increase magnesium levels, especially since it has higher bioavailability than some other types of magnesium supplements. Preventing magnesium deficiency is important because magnesium is needed for hundreds of different bodily functions, plus for warding off common symptoms like anxiety, trouble sleeping, aches, spasms, headaches and blood pressure changes.

3. Can Help Support Muscle and Nerve Functions

Because magnesium is an electrolyte that is particularly important for the nervous system and muscle contractions, magnesium citrate can help support proper muscle and nerve functions. It plays a role in regulating muscle tone, preventing muscle cramps, and supporting healthy nerve signaling.

How Much Magnesium Citrate Should You Take?

The recommended dosage of magnesium citrate can vary depending on the reason for taking it. For general health and preventing deficiency, the recommended daily intake is around 310-420mg per day for adults.

For constipation relief, a typical dosage is between 150-300mg taken once per day. Higher doses of 500-600mg may be used for a short period of time to help clear the bowels, such as before a medical procedure. It’s important to start with a lower dose and increase slowly, as magnesium citrate can cause diarrhea if taken in excess.

When taking magnesium citrate for constipation, it’s best to take it on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. This helps the magnesium citrate work more effectively. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids when taking magnesium citrate to avoid dehydration.

Who Should Take Magnesium Citrate?

Magnesium citrate can be beneficial for many people, including those who:

  • Struggle with occasional constipation
  • Want to prevent or treat magnesium deficiency
  • Need support for muscle and nerve functions
  • Experience issues like headaches, fatigue, muscle aches or cramps
  • Have trouble sleeping or feel stressed/anxious
  • Need to prepare for a medical procedure like a colonoscopy

However, magnesium citrate may not be suitable for everyone. Those with kidney or heart problems, intestinal blockages, or severe dehydration should avoid it or speak to their doctor first. Pregnant women and young children should also check with their healthcare provider before taking magnesium citrate.

How to Choose a Magnesium Citrate Supplement

When selecting a magnesium citrate supplement, look for one that uses high-quality, pure ingredients and is free of unnecessary fillers or additives. The supplement should also contain the proper dosage for your needs. Start with a lower dose and work your way up gradually to assess your tolerance.

It’s a good idea to take magnesium citrate with meals or to divide the daily dose into two or more smaller servings throughout the day. This can help improve absorption and minimize any potential gastrointestinal side effects.

Magnesium Citrate vs. Other Forms of Magnesium

Magnesium citrate is just one of many different types of magnesium supplements available. Other common forms include magnesium glycinate, magnesium malate, magnesium orotate, and magnesium oxide.

The main differences between these forms come down to their chemical structure, absorption rates, and intended uses. For example, magnesium glycinate is often preferred for its ability to be well-absorbed and gentle on the digestive system, while magnesium oxide is a less expensive option that’s better suited for occasional constipation relief.

When choosing a magnesium supplement, it’s best to consider your specific health goals and any other medications or conditions you have. Consulting with your healthcare provider can help you determine the best form and dosage for your individual needs.

The Bottom Line

Magnesium citrate is a versatile magnesium supplement that can provide a variety of health benefits, including relieving occasional constipation. By increasing water content in the intestines, magnesium citrate helps soften stools and promote regular bowel movements.

In addition to its laxative effects, magnesium citrate can also help prevent magnesium deficiency symptoms, support muscle and nerve functions, and potentially even provide relief for headaches, fatigue, and sleep issues.

When taking magnesium citrate, be sure to start with a low dose, stay hydrated, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any underlying medical conditions. With the right dosage and usage, magnesium citrate can be a helpful tool for maintaining overall health and wellbeing.

Magnesium Citrate Benefits, Including for Constipation