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Q. I had constipation for five years. I was using Citrucel and extra bran on my cereal. I drank lots of water but still had very hard rabbit-like stools.
At water aerobics a friend told me about taking magnesium. It has worked wonders for me.
I take 500 mg before going to bed and have a good response, usually before noon the next day. I asked my internist and cardiologist if it was safe to take and they both said no problem. The cardiologist even said it is good for the heart as well. I thought you might want to pass this along.
A. Magnesium has long been used to counter constipation. Milk of magnesia, for example, is a well-known laxative. Too much of this mineral can cause diarrhea, though. Most people tolerate 300 mg with no problems, but those with kidney problems must avoid extra magnesium.
In a recent column I read in the Lakeland Ledger talked about Flaxseed oil and its benefits. I don't remember what flaxseed was originally good for; I do know it completely eliminated the IBS systems I have been plagued with. At least 3 times a month I would be near incapacitated with constipation and pain, that turned into severe diarrhea. I can't say thank you enough for mentioning this miracle supplement! I have not exaggerated about my symptoms or effectiveness of flaxseed. I have been completely IBS symptoms free for 4 months.
My friend told me the same thing. After a couple of weeks, I realized I had incredible joint pain.. everywhere, but particularly in my hips. I've had varying degrees of joint pain over many years, and have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, along with some other guesses. etc. I had cortisone shots numbers of times. Discontinuing Magnesium put an end to all this. Now I tell drs. "Allergies: Magnesium."
Magnesium is an additive to many products.
I read with interest about the person who used magnesium tablets for consipation; her symptoms were the same as mine. I tried them and for several months they worked like a charm. However, after a while I became quite constipated, just like before. Can one build up a resistance to magnesium? Or do I have another problem?
I suffered from constipation for years. Only when I started taking 500 mg magnesium twice a day did I find relief. It has been a miracle find for me.
What type of magnesium should one take, oxide or citrate and in what doses? Also, the person who mentioned the flaxseed oil, how much do you take a day?