Many people unwittingly take magnesium calcium carbonate. It is the compound found in many stomach acid relief medications. While useful for reducing digestive upsets, it can cause an unpleasant side effect --- constipation. With a little care, however, you can take magnesium calcium carbonate and avoid or minimize constipation.
What is Constipation?
Constipation occurs when bowel movements are infrequent and also difficult to pass. It is one of the most common digestive symptoms, defined as fewer than three movements per week, according to the National Digestive Disorders Information Clearinghouse. When you are constipated, you may feel the urge to have a bowel movement but be unable. Your stool may be firm and dry and cause irritation when finally passing. Constipation may be a side effect of certain medical disorders or medications and can also result from a lack of activity or from eating too much processed food.
Magnesium Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate is one of the many compounds used in calcium supplements. Magnesium may be added to some calcium supplements, including calcium carbonate, along with other vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D and phosphorus. When calcium carbonate is combined with magnesium, however, it is more than just a dietary supplement; it is also an antacid. Magnesium calcium carbonate is the active ingredient in several over-the-counter heartburn medications. Antacids can be used as a source of supplemental calcium and may provide between 200 and 400 mg of calcium per pop, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Taken in excess, however, antacids may cause unpleasant digestive side effects.
Side Effects
Constipation is one of many possible side effects of calcium supplements. Calcium carbonate compound is more likely to cause bloating and constipation than other calcium supplements, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Constipation can also occur when antacids containing calcium carbonate with magnesium are taken in excess, and according to Medline Plus, may be a sign of overuse or even an antacid overdose. If you notice a change in your heart rate or breathing or feel dizzy or confused after taking calcium carbonate with magnesium, seek medical attention.
Avoiding Constipation
If you are prone to constipation, calcium supplements may worsen the problem. Gradually increasing your dose of calcium, rather than starting with the full dose, may help. Start with a 500 mg daily dose and slowly add more until you reach the amount your doctor recommends, suggests the NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Disease National Resource Center. In addition, you can decrease your constipation risk after taking calcium carbonate with magnesium. Simply increase your intake of fiber-rich foods and drink plenty of water. If these methods do not relieve constipation symptoms, talk to your doctor for more recommendations. To minimize your risk of other side effects, never take antacids or other calcium supplements without first consulting your doctor.
References
- MedlinePlus: Calcium Carbonate with Magnesium Overdose
- National Digestive Disorders Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC): Constipation
- NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center: Calcium Supplements: What to Look For
- Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health: Calcium
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