Question:
citrate of magnesium

Can I take citrate of magnesium if I feel I should go more? I have been doing high protein and do not want to depend on laxitives. can I drink a bottle of this and will it help. I am afraid of constipation. Or does anyone have a suggestion? Benefiber is not helping!    — Sabrina H_NC (posted on September 22, 2003)

September 22, 2003
I think you should use something that is less harsh. I use to use colon clenz. They have a library of other stuff you can use. But before using anything as your doctor first.
   — Sharon T.

September 22, 2003
Sabrina-I've been taking a stool softener daily. It is nice and gentle and does just what it says it does-soften. he brand I've been taking is Colace I think.
   — [Deactivated Member]

September 22, 2003
I would not use this on a routine basis. If you are definitely constipated you could have some, but definitely not the whole bottle like it says. I just drink 2-3 swigs and it kicks things into gear. The "whole bottle" treatment is like for when you need to be squeaky clean for a procedure. ~~~~~ Since you are eating less, you will be "going" less. As long as you don't have actual problems with constipation (straining), I wouldn't worry ahead of time. If you are drinking all your water, you should not have any problems. ~~~~~ Some people who used to go every single day are now going every second or third day - just make sure you are still passing gas and you'll know your intestines are doing their job.
   — bethybb

September 22, 2003
I am also afraid of becoming laxitive dependant. Constipation has always been a problem for me and is even worse since surgery. Stool softeners made it worse because it seems to gum up the plumbing. The thing that works for me is Smooth Move tea. I get it from the health food store. Its caffine free and doesn't taste too bad with a little sweet n low. Drink a cup before bed and go potty in the morning.
   — Tawnda C.

September 22, 2003
I couldn't help but post in response to this question...I too thought I was badly constipated, but reasoned to myself ,No, your not eating as much, and your throwing up and neaseated...it'll pass it's normal...sort of "par for the course for this surgery". WRONG! I had a twisted bowel, existed 2 weeks like that, and almost died! If you don't"go" and you're eating and drinking , something is wrong! I took laxatives, softeners, enemas, the whole gammet to try to help things along...and got small results. Please be careful to watch your habits closely and make sure things are returning in a timely manner, if not, seek medical help from your surgeon! It can be a deadly mistake if ignored. Hope this helps! Anita
   — Anita K.

September 22, 2003
Try a fiber supplement like Benefiber before you go down the laxative route. I take 2 tbsp mixed in 8 oz of flavored water every 1-2 days and it keeps me regular like nothing else could. It has no taste and is not gritty.
   — Kristen S.

September 27, 2003
You might try a glycerin suppository or fleets enema. Sometimes people can get so constipated that you have to attack from downstairs, if you get my drift *sorry*. You can treat the upstairs all you want and all you will get is a flood after the dam breaks. If you can't resolve this on your own in a few days....call your doctor.
   — tristahouse