How do micronutrient imbalances affect digestive health. What role do vitamins and minerals play in constipation. Which micronutrients can cause or alleviate constipation symptoms. How can functional medicine testing help identify micronutrient imbalances related to constipation.

The Impact of Micronutrients on Digestive Health

Micronutrients play a crucial role in maintaining optimal digestive health. These essential vitamins and minerals are involved in various biochemical processes that affect gastrointestinal function, including water balance, motility, and nutrient absorption. When micronutrient levels become imbalanced, either through deficiency or excess, it can lead to digestive issues such as constipation.

Constipation, characterized by infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stools, or incomplete evacuation, affects millions of Americans. While diet and lifestyle factors are often the primary culprits, micronutrient imbalances can also contribute significantly to this common gastrointestinal complaint.

Micronutrient Excess and Constipation: A Complex Relationship

Excessive intake of certain micronutrients can surprisingly lead to constipation through various mechanisms. These may include reduced gut motility, altered water balance in the intestines, or interference with the absorption of other essential nutrients. Let’s explore some specific micronutrients that, when present in excess, can contribute to constipation:

Iron: The Double-Edged Sword

Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin and proper oxygen transport throughout the body. However, iron supplementation, often prescribed for deficiency, can have an unintended side effect: constipation. This occurs because excess iron can draw water away from the gastrointestinal tract, leading to harder stools that are more difficult to pass.

Are all forms of iron equally constipating? Not necessarily. While ferrous and ferric sulfate, gluconate, and fumarate are common in supplements and more likely to cause constipation, alternative forms such as ferrous glycinate or iron protein succinylate may be gentler on the digestive system.

Calcium: Too Much of a Good Thing

Calcium is vital for strong bones, muscle contractions, and nerve signaling. However, excessive calcium intake can slow down intestinal transit, potentially leading to constipation. This effect is particularly pronounced with calcium carbonate, which is considered the most constipating form of calcium supplement.

Vitamin D: The Indirect Culprit

While vitamin D deficiency is common, over-supplementation can indirectly cause constipation. Excessive vitamin D intake can lead to hypercalcemia, or elevated blood calcium levels. As we’ve seen, high calcium levels can slow down bowel movements, resulting in constipation.

Zinc: Balancing Act Gone Wrong

Zinc plays a vital role in immune function and wound healing. However, excessive zinc intake can interfere with the absorption of other essential nutrients like copper and iron, which are important for maintaining regular bowel movements. This interference can potentially lead to constipation.

Micronutrient Deficiencies and Their Impact on Digestion

While excess micronutrients can cause constipation, deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can also contribute to digestive issues. Let’s examine some key micronutrient deficiencies associated with constipation:

Magnesium: The Overlooked Mineral

Magnesium deficiency is relatively common and can significantly impact digestive health. This mineral plays a crucial role in muscle relaxation, including the muscles of the intestinal walls. Low magnesium levels can lead to reduced gut motility and harder stools, contributing to constipation.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): More Than Just Energy

Thiamine is essential for energy metabolism and proper nervous system function. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to decreased gut motility, potentially resulting in constipation. Adequate thiamine intake is crucial for maintaining healthy digestive function.

Vitamin C: Beyond Immune Support

While primarily known for its immune-boosting properties, vitamin C also plays a role in digestive health. This water-soluble vitamin can act as a natural laxative by drawing water into the intestines, softening stools and promoting regular bowel movements. A deficiency in vitamin C may contribute to constipation in some individuals.

The Role of Functional Medicine in Identifying Micronutrient Imbalances

Functional medicine offers a comprehensive approach to identifying and addressing micronutrient imbalances that may be contributing to constipation. By utilizing advanced testing methods, practitioners can gain valuable insights into an individual’s nutritional status and tailor interventions accordingly.

Micronutrient Testing: A Window into Nutritional Status

Micronutrient testing goes beyond standard blood tests to provide a more detailed picture of nutrient levels within cells. This type of testing can reveal deficiencies or excesses that may not be apparent through conventional methods, allowing for more targeted and effective interventions.

Organic Acid Testing: Uncovering Metabolic Clues

Organic acid testing can provide valuable information about various metabolic processes in the body, including those related to digestion and nutrient absorption. By analyzing organic acids in urine, practitioners can identify potential imbalances or deficiencies that may be contributing to constipation.

Addressing Micronutrient Imbalances to Alleviate Constipation

Once micronutrient imbalances have been identified, there are several strategies that can be employed to address them and potentially alleviate constipation:

• Dietary modifications to increase or decrease intake of specific nutrients
• Targeted supplementation to address deficiencies
• Adjusting existing supplement regimens to avoid excess intake
• Addressing underlying factors that may be affecting nutrient absorption or utilization

It’s important to note that any changes to diet or supplementation should be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as individual needs can vary widely.

The Gut Microbiome: A Key Player in Micronutrient Balance and Digestion

The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in both micronutrient metabolism and digestive health. A balanced and diverse gut microbiome can enhance nutrient absorption, produce certain vitamins, and contribute to regular bowel movements. Conversely, an imbalanced microbiome may exacerbate micronutrient deficiencies and contribute to constipation.

Probiotics and Prebiotics: Supporting Digestive Health

Incorporating probiotics and prebiotics into the diet can help support a healthy gut microbiome, potentially improving both micronutrient absorption and digestive function. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables, while prebiotic fibers can be found in foods such as garlic, onions, and bananas.

Lifestyle Factors That Influence Micronutrient Balance and Digestion

In addition to diet and supplementation, various lifestyle factors can impact micronutrient balance and digestive health. Addressing these factors can complement efforts to correct micronutrient imbalances and alleviate constipation:

1. Hydration: Adequate water intake is crucial for maintaining proper digestion and preventing constipation.
2. Physical activity: Regular exercise can promote healthy gut motility and improve overall digestive function.
3. Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively impact both nutrient absorption and digestive health.
4. Sleep quality: Poor sleep can disrupt various metabolic processes, including those related to digestion and nutrient utilization.
5. Medications: Certain medications can interfere with nutrient absorption or contribute to constipation.

Personalized Approaches to Micronutrient Balance and Digestive Health

Given the complex interplay between micronutrients, digestion, and individual factors, a personalized approach is often the most effective way to address micronutrient imbalances and related digestive issues. This may involve:

• Comprehensive health history and symptom evaluation
• Advanced functional medicine testing
• Customized dietary recommendations
• Targeted supplementation strategies
• Lifestyle modifications
• Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of interventions

By taking a holistic and individualized approach, it’s possible to identify and address the root causes of micronutrient imbalances and associated digestive issues, potentially leading to long-term improvements in overall health and well-being.

Emerging Research on Micronutrients and Digestive Health

The field of nutrition and digestive health is constantly evolving, with new research shedding light on the complex relationships between micronutrients, gut function, and overall health. Some areas of ongoing investigation include:

Nutrigenomics: Personalized Nutrition Based on Genetic Factors

Nutrigenomics explores how individual genetic variations can affect nutrient metabolism and requirements. This emerging field holds promise for developing highly personalized nutrition strategies that take into account an individual’s unique genetic profile, potentially optimizing micronutrient balance and digestive health.

Micronutrient Interactions: Beyond Single Nutrient Effects

Research is increasingly focusing on the complex interactions between different micronutrients and how these interactions can impact digestive health. Understanding these relationships may lead to more effective strategies for addressing micronutrient imbalances and related digestive issues.

Novel Delivery Methods for Micronutrients

Scientists are exploring innovative ways to deliver micronutrients more effectively, potentially reducing the risk of imbalances and associated digestive side effects. These may include targeted delivery systems, improved formulations, or novel combinations of nutrients designed to enhance absorption and utilization.

As research in these areas continues to advance, it’s likely that our understanding of the relationship between micronutrients and digestive health will become even more nuanced, leading to more effective strategies for preventing and addressing constipation and other digestive issues.

In conclusion, the intricate relationship between micronutrient balance and digestive health underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to nutrition and wellness. By understanding the potential impacts of both micronutrient excesses and deficiencies on constipation, individuals and healthcare providers can work together to develop targeted strategies for optimizing digestive function and overall health. As research in this field continues to evolve, we can look forward to even more refined and personalized approaches to addressing micronutrient imbalances and their effects on digestive health.

Top Micronutrient Imbalances That Can Cause Constipation

Constipation is the most common complaint of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, with over four million Americans suffering from constipation. A poor diet consisting of certain micronutrient imbalances, including both high and low levels, has been associated with constipation. This article will discuss micronutrients, constipation, and how micronutrient imbalances cause constipation. Functional medicine testing can help uncover micronutrient imbalances in relation to constipation and treatment options based on results.

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What are Micronutrients?

Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals that are ideally obtained from the diet. Micronutrients are essentially what our bodies run off of; every biochemical process in the body uses micronutrients, impacting cellular growth and repair, energy production and metabolism, immune function, and more. Because of this, micronutrient imbalances can lead to chronic fatigue, chronic pain, infertility, cardiovascular disease, metabolic diseases, digestive disorders, and more. Micronutrients can be divided into fat-soluble vitamins, water-soluble vitamins, macrominerals, and trace minerals.

What is Constipation?

Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal (GI) complaint, with 16 out of every 100 Americans having constipation. Painful stools, stools that are difficult to pass or don’t completely expel, and a frequency of less than three bowel movements per week can all indicate a diagnosis of constipation. With constipation comes bloating, gas, abdominal cramping, and more.

How Do Micronutrient Imbalances Cause Constipation?

Micronutrients seem to impact the flow of water into and out of the GI tract, which can affect the consistency of stool. Micronutrients may also affect the rate of movement, or motility, throughout the GI tract. Each specific micronutrient plays an important role in healthy digestion, so imbalances in any of them will affect the GI tract in a particular way, potentially leading to constipation.

Which Micronutrient Imbalances Are Associated With Constipation?

Micronutrients can be found in both low and high levels, and we see both excess and deficiencies of certain micronutrients leading to constipation.

Micronutrient Excess That Can Cause Constipation.

Micronutrient excess can cause constipation through various mechanisms such as reducing gut motility, altering the water balance in the intestine, and interfering with the absorption of other essential nutrients. Here are some examples of how specific micronutrients in excess can cause constipation:

Iron Excess

Iron is a mineral required for proper development and growth. Iron is essential for the creation of hemoglobin, the part of the red blood cell that carries oxygen around the body. Iron deficiencies can be common, especially in pregnant women, and supplementation of iron is often required. One of the most common side effects of iron supplementation is constipation, as it is thought that iron pulls water away from the GI tract, causing hard stools. Iron can come in many forms, with ferrous/ferric sulfate, ferrous/ferric gluconate, and ferrous/ferric fumarate being the most commonly found in supplements. However, other types of iron are available, including ferrous glycine sulfate (ferrous glycinate or ferrous bisglycinate), iron protein succinylate, and ferric citrate, and might be a better option as they are gentler on the GI tract and are not as constipating as the former types of iron mentioned.

Calcium Excess

Calcium is the most common mineral found in the body. It is essential for strong bones, muscular contractions, nerve signaling, hormone release, and blood flow. However, calcium’s ability to contract muscles can act on the muscles of the GI tract and slow the transit of stool, leading to constipation. Like iron, different types of calcium may affect the GI differently. Calcium in the form of calcium carbonate has been labeled as the most constipating type of calcium.

Vitamin D Excess

It is estimated that 40% of Americans are deficient in vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone pain, impaired immune function, mood swings, low energy levels, and more. Because vitamin D is primarily made from the sun, vitamin D supplementation in northern regions is quite common. In cases of over-supplementation, excessive vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia or too much calcium in the blood. As discussed above, elevated calcium can cause constipation, and thus elevated vitamin D can also lead to constipation.

Zinc Excess

Excess zinc intake can cause constipation by interfering with the absorption of other essential nutrients, such as copper and iron, which are important for maintaining bowel regularity. Sources of zinc include oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, and fortified cereals.

Micronutrient Deficiencies That Can Cause Constipation

Micronutrient deficiencies can cause constipation by affecting the proper functioning of the digestive system. Here are some examples of how specific micronutrient deficiencies can cause constipation:

Vitamin D Deficiency

While excess vitamin D can cause constipation, so can low vitamin D. Vitamin D may aid in gastric motility or movement of the muscles in the GI tract. Deficiencies, thus, may lead to the slowing of the movement in the GI, causing constipation.

Thiamine/B1 Deficiency

Thiamine, or vitamin B1, is essential for cellular growth and development. This vitamin is found in whole grains, nuts, seeds, pork, and legumes. Thiamine deficiencies are considered rare in the U.S. but occasionally do occur. In the presence of a B1 deficiency, cells in the pancreas will greatly reduce the amount of digestive enzymes they release, which can slow down the digestive tract and lead to constipation.

Potassium Deficiency

Potassium is a mineral used by every cell in the body, as it plays an important role in cellular fluidity and chemical signaling. A potassium deficiency can cause motility in the GI tract to slow, and in severe cases, it can cause it to stop completely.

Magnesium Deficiency

Magnesium is utilized in over 300 reactions in the body, making it an abundant mineral. Magnesium is widely used in the treatment of constipation, but a study on over 3,000 Japanese women showed an association between low magnesium status and a higher prevalence of constipation. Magnesium helps to pull water into the stool, softening it while also stimulating contractions in the GI tract, causing movement of the stool.

Vitamin C Deficiency

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. Sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, peppers, and broccoli.

Functional Medicine Labs to Test for Root Cause of Constipation

Micronutrient deficiencies leading to constipation can be the result of improper nutrition, high levels of other micronutrients, or gastrointestinal issues. Thus, a micronutrient panel and a comprehensive stool analysis may be necessary to get to the root cause of constipation.

Micronutrient Panel

In order to ensure optimal levels of micronutrients, especially those discussed above, a micronutrient test can be helpful. Micronutrient testing will show levels of numerous vitamins and minerals, allowing for the assessment of both deficiencies and surpluses. It is also beneficial to see micronutrient levels alongside each other, as certain nutrients interact with one another and may lead to deficiencies.

Comprehensive Stool Test

Comprehensive stool tests analyze gastrointestinal functioning, including markers of digestion and absorption, intestinal permeability, and inflammatory markers, and give insight into the composition of the microbiome. Markers of digestion and absorption can be helpful when evaluating micronutrient causes of constipation, as improper digestion and absorption can lead to micronutrient deficiencies, some of which may cause constipation. Increased intestinal permeability will allow nutrients to pass into the blood prior to being properly broken down. If food is not fully degraded, the nutrients will not be absorbed and thus can lead to deficiencies. Inflammatory markers can indicate inflammation in the GI tract. Inflammation can damage the lining of the GI, leading to further permeability but may also cause improper absorption of nutrients throughout the small intestine. Lastly, the microbiome is responsible for further digestion and absorption of food. If dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut bacteria, is present, that will also hinder micronutrient absorption.

Nutrition for Constipation

The Mediterranean Diet can be a great way to eat to avoid micronutrient deficiencies and relieve constipation. The Mediterranean Diet consists of whole foods, unprocessed grains, and healthy fats. It typically includes foods that contain an array of micronutrients, including fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, herbs, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish. Followers of the diet are encouraged to eat locally and seasonally, as foods consumed in this fashion tend to be more nutrient dense. The Mediterranean Diet is also high in fibrous foods, which can help to bulk stool and relieve constipation.

Hydration for Constipation

Water intake is essential to avoid constipation. Dehydration causes water to be pulled from the intestines and into the circulation, leaving hard, dry stools. Additionally, water is needed to properly absorb micronutrients, which can, in turn, affect constipation.

Microbiome Support for Constipation

Comprehensive stool testing can result in the creation of a targeted treatment plan focused on the area, or areas, of the GI tract that are functioning suboptimally, causing micronutrient deficiencies.

Supplements for Constipation

Digestive enzymes are naturally produced by the stomach, liver, and pancreas and function to break down foods. If markers of digestion are low, digestive enzyme supplementation may be necessary to aid in the breakdown and absorption of food.

Intestinal permeability

L-glutamine is an amino acid and the primary fuel source for small intestine cells. Glutamine has been shown to strengthen the tight junctions that hold the intestinal cells together, lowering intestinal permeability.

Inflammation

Boswellia serrata is a medicinal plant containing multiple phytonutrients that may inhibit inflammatory production. In a randomized, double-blind study of 102 people with Crohn’s disease (CD), which is an inflammatory GI Disease, half were given Boswellia, and half were given a standard CD treatment, the antiinflammatory drug mesalazine. The Crohn’s Disease Activity Index, the gold standard assessment for CD, improved more in the Boswellia group as compared to the mesalazine group.

Dysbiosis

Dysbiosis occurs when there is an imbalance between beneficial and harmful microbes. Probiotics are supplements containing beneficial microbes that can help to replenish the good microbes while limiting or reducing the harmful microbes.

Summary

As the most common GI complaint, many people are searching for a solution for constipation. Investigating micronutrient levels, as both high and low levels of certain micronutrients can cause constipation, can aid in the resolution of constipation. Micronutrient and comprehensive gastrointestinal testing can assess which micronutrients are out of balance and if impaired digestive functioning is the root cause of the imbalances.

Does Vitamin D Cause Constipation? | Vitamin D Constipation

Medically reviewed on August 1, 2022 by Jordan Stachel, M.S., RDN, CPT. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.

Table of contents

• How can vitamin D affect bowel movements?
• Are there other vitamins that might contribute to constipation?
• What other side effects might come with vitamin D?
• Get in tune with your vitamin D levels with Everlywell

Ensuring that you get enough vitamin D in your daily diet can help support immune health, cellular growth, and bone development. [1] While some opt for fortified foods like milk and cereals for their daily dose of vitamin D, others opt to take supplements.

Can you take too much vitamin D? Yes, you can and it can potentially harm your gastrointestinal tract, which may lead to nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or constipation.

How can vitamin D affect bowel movements?

So, does vitamin D cause constipation? Not exactly, but constipation is often a side effect of too much vitamin D. You might be wondering “How much vitamin D should I take?” It is generally recommended to have 400 to 800 IU daily. To help you understand how vitamin D intake is related to your bowel movements, let’s break down some facts about vitamin D and your body: [1]

• Vitamin D is fat soluble – Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin. This means it’s absorbed with dietary fats. From there, vitamin D is stored in your liver and other fatty tissues. A fat soluble vitamin is excreted like water-soluble vitamins. Therefore, if you get too much of a fat soluble vitamin it’s stored in your body.
• Hypercalcemia – Is vitamin D good for bones? When you consume the right amount, vitamin D does its job—helping your body with calcium absorption for strong bones. When you get too much calcium intake, it builds up in your bloodstream. This is known as hypercalcemia.
• Digestive problems – Hypercalcemia can lead to a host of digestive problems. You might experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Others experience the opposite end of the spectrum—constipation. If left untreated, more serious problems can occur, including renal failure and even death.

Can the right amount of vitamin D keep your digestive system on track?

While you don’t want to go overboard on vitamin D supplementation, the right amount can help keep your digestive system humming along optimally. [2] In fact, a study of 86 patients who suffered from chronic constipation found that vitamin D deficiency was one of the key contributors to their digestive troubles.

The World Journal of Gastroenterology proposed that potential links between vitamin D and chronic constipation could be tied to the increase in inflammation and poor immune response that may accompany vitamin D deficiency.

Are there other vitamins that might contribute to constipation?

A toxic amount of vitamin D might not cause your constipation. There are other vitamins that can contribute to gastrointestinal problems as well. These may include: [3]

• Calcium – While some people can take calcium supplements without any problems, others find they experience an increase in gastrointestinal problems, including constipation, bloating, gas, and stomach cramps when taking calcium. If you’re taking both calcium and vitamin D supplement, the combination of these two might cause you some stomach distress.
• Iron – Iron supplements are also known to cause gastrointestinal problems. Iron can be difficult to digest when taken in supplement form and constipation is a common symptom associated with excess iron. Your healthcare provider may recommend a stool softener to relieve the discomfort caused by an iron supplement.

Constipation may also derive from causes outside of diet and supplement intake, such as:

• Dehydration
• Certain medications
• Insufficient dietary fiber intake
• Stress
• Lack of exercise
• Genetic predisposition
• Colon problems

You should always consult with your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing constipation. They can rule out more serious issues and help you mitigate gastrointestinal discomfort.

What other side effects might come with vitamin D?

Constipation isn’t the only side effect associated with toxic vitamin D intake. In addition to gastrointestinal distress, excessive vitamin D intake may also lead to:

• Loss of appetite
• Excessive thirst and dehydration
• Frequent urination
• Muscle weakness
• Pain
• Confusion
• Kidney failure
• Irregular heartbeat
• Death

On the other hand, too little vitamin D can also lead to: [4]

• Bone deformities in children
• Bone aches
• Muscle weakness

Get in tune with your vitamin D levels with Everlywell

Your body requires a delicate balance of vitamins to function optimally. Too much or too little of necessary nutrients, such as vitamin D, can cause significant health problems.

That being said, when you intake excess or toxic levels of vitamin D, you may experience constipation, in addition to other digestive problems, loss of appetite, and muscle weakness.

If you’re uncertain if your vitamin D levels are where they should be, Everlywell can help. Our at-home Vitamin D Test is an easy and convenient way to check your vitamin D from the comfort of your home. Also note that you can now purchase vitamin D supplements directly from Everlywell. If you’re experiencing various bowel-related symptoms, consider taking an at-home colon cancer test.

Related content

Is vitamin D good for bones?

Can you take too much vitamin D?

How much vitamin D should I take?

References

1. VItamin D Fact Sheet. National Institutes of Health. URL. Accessed August 1, 2022.
2. Chronic Functional Constipation is Strongly Linked to Vitamin D Deficiency. World Journal of Gastroenterology. URL. Accessed August 1, 2022.
3. Chronic Constipation. Medicine. URL. Accessed August 1, 2022.
4. Vitamin D. National Institutes of Health. URL. Accessed August 1, 2022.

Can taking vitamin D cause constipation?

Elevated levels of vitamin D and calcium in the body can contribute to some digestive problems such as stomach pain, constipation and diarrhea. . It can also be a sign of other health problems, so it’s important to let your doctor know if you’re taking any supplements.

At the same time, can vitamin D affect your bowel movements? If you take large doses of vitamin D, you may experience abdominal pain, loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhea. as a result of elevated calcium levels.

Briefly, what is remedy D for constipation? If you are constipated, the following quick treatments can help you have a bowel movement in just a few hours.

• Take fiber supplements. …
• Eat foods to relieve constipation. …
• Drink a glass of water. …
• Take a laxative. …
• Take an osmotic laxative. …
• Try a laxative lubricant. …
• Use a stool softener. …
• Give an enema.

Which vitamin stops constipation?

1. Magnesium. Magnesium plays a number of important roles in the body, and some forms of this mineral can help with constipation. For example, studies have shown that Magnesium Oxide, Magnesium Citrate and Magnesium Sulfate all improve the symptoms of constipation.

really, what are the symptoms of too much vitamin D?

The main consequence of vitamin D toxicity is a buildup of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia), which can cause nausea and vomiting, weakness, and frequent urination. Vitamin D toxicity can progress to bone pain and kidney problems such as calcium stones.

Contents

Can vitamin D cause gas and bloating?

Unfortunately, very few food sources naturally contain this nutrient, which can make it difficult to meet your needs (23). If you’re vitamin D deficient, supplementing can be an easy way to increase your intake and potentially prevent bloating.

Can I take 10,000 IU of vitamin D3 per day?

The Endocrine Society Practice Guidelines recommend that up to 10,000 IU per day is safe for adults. This is in contrast to the recommended UL of XNUMX IU/day from IOM.

Can I take 5000 IU of Vitamin D3 every day?

So long-term vitamin D3 at doses between 5000 and 50,000 IU/day seems safe.

Is it better to take vitamin D every day or once a week?

Output. Daily vitamin D was more effective than weekly, and monthly was the least effective.

How soon will I feel better after taking vitamin D?

So, when it comes to treating vitamin D deficiency, how long does it take to feel better? Those with the lowest levels should feel better after just a few days, while those who only need to top up may have to wait a week or two before they begin to feel healthier and more energized.

Does vitamin D cause weight gain?

Vitamin D deficiency is unlikely to lead to weight gain. However, it may cause other health problems or unpleasant symptoms that should be avoided. You can maintain adequate vitamin D levels by combining limited sun exposure, a vitamin D-rich diet, and vitamin D supplements.

Bloating Tips

1. Stay hydrated. Drink water before, during, and after meals to reduce bloating by flushing out excess sodium, which can often lead to bloating.
2. Get some exercise.
3. Try yoga.
4. Try peppermint oil.
5. Massage your belly.
6. Digestive enzyme supplements.
7. Take an Epsom salt bath.

Can vitamin D3 cause constipation?

Constipation is a possible side effect of taking too much vitamin D3 (a form of D that the body makes when exposed to sunlight). According to the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health, the maximum daily amount of vitamin D3 that people should consume is 1,000 to 1,500 IU for infants.

What is the difference between vitamin D and vitamin D3?

There are two possible forms of vitamin D in the human body: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Both D2 and D3 are simply referred to as “vitamin D”, so there is no meaningful difference between vitamin D3 and just vitamin D.

When should I take vitamin D, morning or evening?

The most important step is to include vitamin D in your daily routine and take it consistently to ensure maximum effectiveness. Try taking it with breakfast or bedtime snacks – as long as it doesn’t interfere with your sleep.

Is 10,000 units of vitamin D a lot?

The current recommended daily allowance for vitamin D is 600 IU per day for adults under the age of 70 and 800 IU for older adults. Up to 4,000 IU/day is generally considered a safe upper limit, however doses up to 10,000 IU/day do not cause toxicity.

Is there a downside to taking vitamin D?

Some side effects of taking too much vitamin D include weakness, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, and others. Long-term vitamin D intake in excess of 4,000 IU (100 mcg) per day may not be safe and can result in very high blood calcium levels.

When should I stop taking vitamin D?

Do not take more than 100 mcg (4,000 IU) of vitamin D per day as this may be harmful. This applies to adults, including pregnant and lactating women and the elderly, as well as children aged 11 to 17 years. Children aged 1 to 10 years should not exceed 50 micrograms (2,000 IU) per day.

Can I take 1000 mg of vitamin D per day?

Current recommendations suggest 400–800 IU (10–20 micrograms) of vitamin D per day. However, people who need more vitamin D can safely consume 1,000–4,000 IU (25–100 mcg) per day. It is not recommended to consume more as it is not associated with any additional health benefits.

Does vitamin D3 cause constipation?

Constipation is a possible side effect of taking too much vitamin D3 (a form of D that the body makes when exposed to sunlight). According to the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health, the maximum daily amount of vitamin D3 that people should consume is 1,000 to 1,500 IU for infants.

Does vitamin D reduce water retention?

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is said to help with mild fluid retention. Good sources of vitamin B6 are brown rice and red meat. Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), calcium and vitamin D help the body eliminate excess fluid. Include fresh fruits and low-fat dairy products in your daily diet.

Does vitamin D cause drowsiness?

The study was not designed to investigate causation. However, the authors’ previous and current research indicates that suboptimal vitamin D levels may cause or contribute to excessive daytime sleepiness, either directly or through chronic pain.

Can too much vitamin D make you tired?

Too much vitamin D in the body can cause an increase in calcium levels in the blood. This can lead to a condition called hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood). Symptoms include: fatigue.

How to make yourself fart?

Foods and drinks that can help a person fart include:

1. carbonated drinks and carbonated mineral water.
2. chewing gum.
3. dairy products.
4. fatty or fried foods.
5. fiber-rich fruits.
6. certain artificial sweeteners such as sorbitol and xylitol.

What is an endo belly?

Endo belly is a colloquial term for bloating caused by endometriosis. Unlike the brief bloating that sometimes accompanies menstruation, an endoscopic abdomen is much more serious and causes physical, mental, and emotional symptoms.

How do you debloat and poop?

It’s quite easy to change your lifestyle to get rid of constipation:

1. Leave enough time in the morning to take care of your bathroom needs. Do it, even if it means getting up a little earlier, Reynolds suggested.
2. Do not make drastic changes in your diet.
3. Drink plenty of fluids.
4. Include plenty of fiber in your diet.

Which deficiency causes constipation?

B12 deficiency can cause symptoms such as fatigue and constipation, and can even lead to permanent neurological damage if left untreated.

Can I take vitamin D3 every day?

Most experts recommend not taking more than 4,000 IU of vitamin D per day. When serum D3 levels are very low (less than 12 nanograms per milliliter), some may recommend a short weekly course of 50,000 IU of vitamin D2 or D3, followed by the usual dose of 600 to 800 IU per day.

Who should not take vitamin D3?

Who should not take VITAMIN D3?

• sarcoidosis.
• high amount of phosphates in the blood.
• high amount of calcium in the blood.
• excess amount of vitamin D in the body.
• kidney stones.
• decreased kidney function.

Should older people take vitamin D or vitamin D3?

My recommended daily dose of vitamin D for seniors

For most older people, I recommend an extra 1000 IU of vitamin D per day. I do this because: The American Geriatric Society (AGS) recommends that clinicians recommend that older patients take 1,000 IU/day of vitamin D to prevent fractures.

Constipation in children – causes, symptoms and treatment

Tiunova Elena

Published: 04/07/2023

Reading time:

1239

All parents experience constipation in a child at least once. It is especially difficult with babies: they still cannot tell what and where it hurts them, why they cry. It is difficult for a mother to determine whether the child is worried that he is lonely, hungry, cold – or he is tormented by his tummy. When breastfeeding, when the stool may be absent for 1-2 days for natural reasons, it is not at all clear whether it is already constipation or not, should you already start treating the baby or should you just wait? Let’s try to figure out in detail what to do if a child has constipation, and how to help him.

How to help a child with constipation

Constipation should not be ignored, hoping that the baby’s digestion will improve by itself. This condition always causes discomfort to the child. Note that constipation is not necessarily associated with infrequent stools. A child can poop every day, but at the same time strain, experience pain, and his feces will be formed and hard – and these are already signs of constipation. But if a baby sucks breasts with appetite, sleeps soundly, actively plays and soils diapers, for example, in a day or two, this is most likely not constipation, but a feature of his digestion.

If you are not sure if your child’s stool is normal, be sure to consult your pediatrician. No need to do an enema, and even more so use “grandmother’s” recipes with soap and a thermometer for prevention – “just in case”. (By the way, there are no cases for a thermometer and soap at all, these methods are simply unacceptable!)
To help a baby with constipation, you need to understand what condition is no longer the norm and determine the reason why digestion failed. By eliminating it, you will save the child from the consequence – constipation.
On breastfeeding for a baby, the norm is yellow homogeneous mushy stools from 1-2 to 5-7 times a day. It should not contain an admixture of mucus and blood, only blotches of white curdled lumps are allowed. The smell should not be offensive, but just sour. In artificially fed children, the stool is denser and darker, as a rule, it happens less often: 1-3 times a day.

Change, that is, become more liquid or more dense, the stool of the baby of the first year can be in transitional periods when the child adapts to new conditions, in particular, to a new diet:

For example, constipation can be:

• In the first weeks of life;

• When switching to artificial feeding;

• When changing formula;

• During the introduction of complementary foods.

A variety of circumstances can cause constipation – from a banal mistake in diluting the mixture to congenital diseases of the digestive system. Among the most common reasons are:

• Lack of fluids, such as preparing a formula that is more concentrated than recommended, or introducing solid foods (for example, less water was used to make porridge to dilute it)
• Physical or psychological discomfort associated with defecation, including irritation skin around the anus with diaper dermatitis.
• Violation of the intestinal microflora due to past infection, taking antibacterial drugs can lead to a slowdown in peristalsis, that is, a slower movement of food through the intestines.
• Frequent uncontrolled use of enemas and certain drugs, such as enzymes or laxatives. All this disrupts the natural course of digestion: it slows down peristalsis, teaches the child to empty only after additional medicinal or mechanical action.
• Diseases not directly related to the digestive organs: rickets, hypothyroidism, iron deficiency anemia, etc. you need to drink enough liquid yourself: at least 2 liters per day . In the first month of a baby’s life, you need to feed on demand, and when a more or less stable regimen is established and before the introduction of complementary foods, breastfeed at intervals of no more than 3 hours during the day and 4-5 at night. For a bottle-fed child, you need to dilute the mixture according to the instructions, do not violate the proportions of the dry product and water.

  After the introduction of complementary foods, regardless of the type of feeding, it is necessary to offer additional water – in total per day, approximately in the amount of one feeding, that is, 150-200 ml. If the child is prone to constipation, then the first food should be vegetables, not cereals.
  Carefully monitor the cleanliness of the baby: wash instead of using wet wipes when changing a dirty diaper, if necessary, apply a diaper cream or baby powder. Don’t force yourself on the potty.

  If the baby poops less than once every 36 hours, and the baby is bottle-fed – not every day, if during the process the baby pushes hard or cries, if the feces are formed, hard – contact your pediatrician.

  The doctor will determine whether it is constipation or not and will advise how exactly to adjust the drinking regimen and nutrition in your situation, and if necessary, he will prescribe procedures and medications.

  This is important!

  Do not self-medicate. Constipation is not a harmless deviation, it can lead to serious health problems for the child.

  Newborn tummy massage for constipation

  Tummy massage is effective in preventing and treating constipation. For prevention, it is enough to carry it out at least once a day and often lay the baby on the tummy. If constipation has already happened, then massage sessions should be performed 2-3 times a day.

  Do not massage a full belly. After a meal, 2 hours should pass, and an hour or at least 30 minutes should be left before a new meal.
  Before massage, calm the baby, play with him, so that the baby is in a good mood. If the child will cry and scream, which means straining the tummy, massage will not help.
  In order for massage movements to stimulate emptying, they must coincide with bowel movements during the digestion of food, the so-called peristaltic waves.

  How to massage the tummy:

  • Lay your baby on their back on a flat surface, such as a changing table. Make sure you have warm hands.

  • Do 5-6 circular strokes of the tummy in a clockwise direction.

  • Go to the opposite stroke. To do this, place the right hand on top of the baby’s left side of the abdomen, and the back of the left hand on the bottom of the right side. Then at the same time stroke the baby’s belly in different directions: move your right palm down, and lift the back of your left up. Repeat 5-6 times.

  • To work out the oblique muscles, it is necessary to stroke the lateral sections of the abdomen. Place both palms under the baby’s lower back, and then, in a wrapping, stroking motion, move your hands up and forward towards each other, connecting them above the navel. Do 5-6 repetitions.

  • Finish the massage again by stroking the belly in a clockwise direction with the same number of repetitions – 5-6 times.

  Does the mother’s constipation affect the baby while breastfeeding?

  Feeding errors in a breastfeeding woman can affect the baby’s digestion. To save the baby from constipation, his mother will have to revise her menu. What specific eating disorders can cause constipation?

  • lack of water: if the mother drinks little, where does the body get the liquid to produce milk?
  • excess of foods with a fixative effect: rice, pasta, pastries, white bread, strong tea and coffee;
  • a lot of milk and dairy products. Constipation can be the result of intolerance or allergy to cow’s milk protein – the most common type of allergy in the first year of life
  • a woman’s diet is low in fiber.

  Rotavirus constipation

  Mothers tend to associate diarrhea with rotavirus rather than constipation. But rotavirus causes inflammation in the intestines and disrupts its functions during illness, so constipation with rotavirus infection is quite possible:

• an increase in temperature causes a large loss of moisture, the liquid can be absorbed in the body, including from feces, compacting them;
• The work of digestive enzymes during illness is disrupted, and the number of “harmful” (pathogenic and opportunistic) bacteria grows, because of this, intestinal motility may slow down.

Constipation in infants during the introduction of complementary foods

The introduction of complementary foods, that is, the transition to a qualitatively new type of food, often causes constipation, even if everything was in order with the digestion of the crumbs before. Complementary foods are recommended to be introduced into the baby’s diet in addition to breast milk or formula from 4 to 6 months. Mistakes in the introduction of complementary foods can cause constipation in the baby:

• If complementary foods are introduced before the age of 4 months, the infant’s digestion will not yet be able to cope with other foods besides breast milk or its substitutes.
• If complementary foods are introduced on time, but the consistency of the food is too thick, this can also cause constipation. Dense food will have difficulty moving through the still immature intestines. Of course, zucchini or broccoli puree is difficult to make too thick, but with porridge it is quite possible to miss. Make sure that at the beginning of the introduction of complementary foods, cereals are no thicker than liquid sour cream in consistency, and only then gradually transfer the baby to thicker food.
• Constipation can be caused by rice porridge as a first meal if the child is prone to constipation. For a baby with a dense physique, especially if he has a stool delay, you should choose vegetables to start complementary foods. Of the cereals, buckwheat or corn is the best for the first feeding. Do not forget that cereals at the beginning of complementary foods should be dairy-free and consist of one type of cereal.
• With the introduction of complementary foods, the baby begins to need additional fluids. Offer baby water in a bottle, cup, or sippy bowl throughout the day. Let him drink at least a sip. During the day, the volume of additional liquid should be approximately equal to what the baby eats in one feeding, this is about 150 – 200 ml. If water does not enter the baby’s body additionally, then it will be absorbed, including from the feces, which will become more dense and dry.

Teething constipation

Undesirable effects ranging from runny nose to fever are not associated with teething. Constipation, like diarrhea, is also among these symptoms. Is it really?
Yes and no. In itself, teething from the gums, of course, does not cause constipation. However, itching and pain in the place where the tooth is cut disturb the baby, his appetite decreases and his temperature may even rise, which leads to an increased consumption of moisture. The baby eats and drinks worse, which means less poop. His stool may become dry and hard from lack of fluid.

Constipation from vitamin D3

Sometimes mothers notice constipation in babies when they start giving them vitamin D3 for prevention. This is more of a coincidence than a consequence of taking the vitamin, since taking the prophylactic dose prescribed by the pediatrician does not cause such an effect.
But an overdose of vitamin D3 can cause constipation. The fact is that vitamin D3 promotes the absorption of calcium in the intestines. In turn, an excess of calcium in the contents of the intestine leads to the formation of difficult-to-digest compounds that thicken the stool.
Do not violate the recommended dosage. With vitamins, as with other drugs, more is not better.

Psychosomatics for constipation

If the child is only a month old, he will not develop constipation of psychosomatic origin. The central and autonomic nervous systems must mature in order to fully regulate the functioning of the intestines.
Psychosomatics as the cause of constipation can be assumed in a child at the age of a year and a half or older, that is, at the time when they begin to teach him to the pot.
Constipation for psychosomatic reasons can occur if:

• the baby has already experienced pain during defecation and is afraid of its repetition, therefore, delays the stool;
• parents force the child to sit on the potty, but this is unpleasant and scary for him;
• parents scold or punish the child for soiled and wet trousers;
• unfavorable emotional situation in the family, bad relations between parents, negative attitude towards the child;
• the child went to kindergarten or changed the children’s team. Constipation can be caused both by stress and by the fact that the baby is embarrassed to go to the pot in the presence of other children and other adults (caregivers, nannies).

Almost all children have constipation. For some, these are isolated cases, for others, they are regular. Parents should be aware of what can cause constipation and how to deal with it.

So

• To help a child with constipation, first of all, a sufficient intake of liquid will help: in the form of an additional portion of water, both before and during the introduction of complementary foods. It is impossible to use medicines, enemas, folk remedies without a doctor’s prescription.

• For the prevention and treatment of constipation, it is worth mastering the techniques of tummy massage: these are circular, counter stroking and stroking the lateral sections of the abdomen.

• Constipation in the mother can cause the same indigestion in a breastfed baby.

• Rotavirus infection in a child can also cause constipation.

• The period of increased risk of constipation is the introduction of complementary foods.

• During teething, constipation can be caused by poor appetite and loss of moisture due to increased body temperature.