Magnesium and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a painful condition. While a change in diet can help ease the symptoms, it is not a cure-all solution. Magnesium supplements are an additional way to ease the pain of IBS.
  1. Definition

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, IBS is a disorder of the large intestines or colon.

    Symptoms

    • IBS causes abdominal pain, gas, bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation.

    Magnesium Supplements

    • Magnesium supplements can be injected or taken orally. Over-the-counter supplements are available in pill form.

    Effects of Magnesium

    • According to helpforibs.com, magnesium can help IBS sufferers who have constipation. The supplement acts as a laxative.

      The website recommends taking a combination of calcium and magnesium for IBS, as calcium's constipating effect combined with magnesium can normalize your bowel movements.

    Medical Consultation

    • Consult your doctor before beginning a magnesium supplement regimen. IBS is generally diagnosed after other digestive problems, such as diverticulitis, are ruled out, so it is important to see your doctor and not self-diagnose yourself with IBS.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Related Articles