However, it should be taken in small amounts to prevent diarrhea, and subsequent dehydration. To conclude, magnesium hydroxide is the strongest laxative among all due to its low absorbability level. This combination also produces a mild laxative effect that is similar to magnesium citrate. Both, malic acid and magnesium, provide relief from the symptoms of fibromyalgia by boosting the body’s ability synthesize ATP and generate energy (ATP aka adenosine triphosphate is a molecule that provides energy on activation). Magnesium malate is a combination of magnesium and malic acid. These salts are not meant to be consumed orally, and when applied topically, are not very effective as laxatives either. Due to this property, it is added to body lotions as well. Thus, it is used more as a bath salt (commonly known as Epsom salt) than as a laxative. However, unlike other compounds, this compound has a better degree of absorbability through the skin. Magnesium sulfate is a potent laxative, and causes diarrhea and bloating when administered intravenously. It is absorbed by the body better than most magnesium compounds (approximately 20%), due to which it has a milder laxative effect than magnesium hydroxide. Magnesium Citrate is a combination of magnesium and citric acid. The remaining 96% passes through the intestines unabsorbed, causing a laxative effect. This is because only 4% of it gets absorbed by the body. Normally, it is used as a laxative, but if taken in excess, magnesium hydrochloride can cause diarrhea. Magnesium Hydroxide also known as “Milk of Magnesia”, is one of the most common compounds in the market.
Following are some types of magnesium supplements and how effective they are as laxatives. Therefore, the choice of magnesium supplement depends entirely on an individual’s need. In fact, the difference between various magnesium supplement is due to the differences in the substances magnesium binds to. Each of these “partners” have varying properties. Magnesium, by itself, is an unstable ion and needs to be bound to another substance, such as oxygen, citric acid, chloride or amino acid, in order to become stable. Types of Magnesium Supplements For Constipation If you’re wondering about which type of magnesium supplement you should take (just in case you feel blocked), read on.
However, consuming too much of magnesium, or taking the wrong magnesium supplement could make you end up with the runs. Magnesium is also useful for providing relief from constipation. Magnesium is needed for a number of vital functions of our bodies.