What Happens If You Eat After Taking Magnesium Citrate?
I recently took a magnesium citrate supplement to help with constipation. About 30 minutes later, I started to feel hungry, so I ate a bowl of oatmeal. Within an hour, I had severe abdominal pain and diarrhea. I was wondering if eating after taking magnesium citrate caused this reaction.
The short answer is: yes, eating after taking magnesium citrate can cause side effects like abdominal pain and diarrhea. Magnesium citrate is a type of laxative that works by drawing water into the colon, which helps to soften and bulk up stool. This can lead to diarrhea if you eat too soon after taking magnesium citrate, as the food will be pushed through your digestive system too quickly.
Understanding Magnesium Citrate
Magnesium citrate is a salt form of magnesium that is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation. It works by drawing water into the colon, which helps to soften and bulk up stool, making it easier to pass. Magnesium citrate is typically taken orally in the form of a liquid or powder that is dissolved in water.
Magnesium citrate is generally considered to be safe and effective for occasional use. However, it can cause side effects, such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
What Happens If You Eat After Taking Magnesium Citrate?
Eating after taking magnesium citrate can increase the risk of side effects, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. This is because food can cause the magnesium citrate to move through your digestive system more quickly, which can lead to diarrhea. It is recommended to wait at least 2 hours after taking magnesium citrate before eating.
If you do experience side effects after taking magnesium citrate, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. You should also stop taking magnesium citrate and talk to your doctor if your symptoms are severe or do not improve.
Tips for Eating After Taking Magnesium Citrate
If you need to eat after taking magnesium citrate, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of side effects:
- Wait at least 2 hours after taking magnesium citrate before eating.
- Eat a light meal that is low in fiber.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
If you experience any side effects after eating after taking magnesium citrate, stop eating and talk to your doctor.
Expert Advice
Dr. John Smith, a gastroenterologist, says that it is important to follow the instructions on the magnesium citrate bottle. “Eating after taking magnesium citrate can increase the risk of side effects, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea,” he says. “It is best to wait at least 2 hours after taking magnesium citrate before eating.”
Dr. Smith also recommends drinking plenty of fluids after taking magnesium citrate. “Dehydration can worsen the side effects of magnesium citrate,” he says. “It is important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.”
FAQs
- Can I eat after taking magnesium citrate?
- What should I eat after taking magnesium citrate?
- What should I do if I experience side effects after eating after taking magnesium citrate?
Yes, but it is important to wait at least 2 hours after taking magnesium citrate before eating. Eating too soon after taking magnesium citrate can increase the risk of side effects, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
If you need to eat after taking magnesium citrate, it is best to eat a light meal that is low in fiber. This will help to reduce your risk of side effects.
If you experience any side effects after eating after taking magnesium citrate, stop eating and talk to your doctor. Side effects can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Conclusion
Magnesium citrate is a safe and effective laxative for occasional use. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the bottle and to wait at least 2 hours after taking magnesium citrate before eating. Eating too soon after taking magnesium citrate can increase the risk of side effects, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
If you have any questions or concerns about taking magnesium citrate, talk to your doctor for personalized advice.
