Laxatives can be bulk forming or stimulant laxatives. Bulk-forming laxatives are often fiber based and will add bulk to stools, while also retaining water to ease the passage of the stools. Stimulant laxatives work by increasing your bowel movements, encouraging your stool to pass through the intestinal system. Magnesium is commonly used as a laxative, and vitamin C is known to have some laxative properties, although it is not commonly used to treat constipation. If you suffer from constipation or believe you need a laxative, consult your doctor first before consuming any products.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral in the body. It aids in a variety of cellular functions and the majority of it is found in the bones. Magnesium helps to maintain proper muscle and nerve functions, heart rhythm, and supports both the skeletal and immune system health. Magnesium can be found in a variety of foods, with leafy green vegetables being an excellent source.
Magnesium Uses
Magnesium is used to treat a variety of ailments, including constipation, heart disease, irregular heart beat, chest pain, anxiety and chronic fatigue syndrome. Its efficacy varies depending on the ailment, although magnesium oxide is proven to be beneficial when used as a laxative. Magnesium oxide is also used to treat heartburn, acid indigestion and a sour stomach. Magnesium oxide is taken in tablet form and the National Institutes of Health does not recommend taking it for longer than one week if using it as a laxative. Consult your doctor before taking magnesium oxide for treating constipation.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is also known as "ascorbic acid." It is found in high levels in fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly in citrus fruits. Forms of recommended vitamin C consumption emphasize a diet rich in fruits and vegetables rather than in supplement form. Vitamin C is commonly used to treat, prevent or alleviate a number of conditions, including depression, skin infections, acne, colds, mental stress and fatigue. Vitamin C can sometimes have a laxative effect when it is taken in high doses, but this is an uncommon use of the vitamin.
Vitamin C Benefits
Vitamin C is most effective for treating vitamin C deficiency, also known as "scurvy." Scurvy is uncommon in modern society, and so vitamin C is most commonly consumed for treating or preventing the common cold. However, its claims to doing so are highly disputed as the scientific evidence supporting this claim is inconclusive.
Member Comments