Can Magnesium Supplements Cause Acid Reflux

If you struggle with acid reflux, chances are you’re willing to try anything that could potentially offer some relief.

As it turns out, magnesium supplements may be a viable and natural solution for managing your symptoms without needing medication or invasive treatments.

However, due to the conflicting information circulating on the subject of magnesium supplements and acid reflux, it can sometimes be difficult to determine if these remedies are safe for you personally.

In this blog post we break down everything there is to know about taking magnesium supplements and managing acid reflux -— from why they can help reduce your symptoms all the way through potential risks associated with supplementing your body with too much magnesium.

Overview of acid reflux and common causes

Acid reflux, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), is a common digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the muscle that separates your stomach from your esophagus.

When this muscle does not close properly, it can cause stomach acid to travel up your esophagus and into your throat, leading to uncomfortable burning sensations in the chest or abdomen.

Common causes of acid reflux include eating large meals, consuming certain foods (such as fried or fatty foods), smoking, drinking alcohol, being overweight or obese, and taking certain medications.

How magnesium can affect acid reflux

Magnesium is a mineral that plays an important role in many bodily functions.

It helps your body produce energy, relax muscles, and maintain healthy nerves, as well as regulate the acidity of your stomach’s digestive juices and help move food through your system.

As it turns out, magnesium may also be beneficial for reducing symptoms of acid reflux.

Studies have shown that magnesium can help reduce the frequency of heartburn, as well as lessen the severity of symptoms when they do occur.

It is thought that magnesium works by helping your lower esophageal sphincter to relax— allowing stomach acid to stay where it belongs and preventing it from entering into your esophagus.

Can magnesium supplements cause acid reflux?

The short answer is no.

In fact, taking magnesium supplements for acid reflux can actually reduce your or worsen acid reflux symptoms and help you manage the condition more effectively.

Although research on this subject is still ongoing, numerous studies have found that supplementing with oral magnesium may be an effective remedy for reducing symptoms of GERD, as well as helping to prevent its recurrence.

However, it is important to keep in mind that magnesium supplements should only be used as a supplement to your normal diet and lifestyle habits in order for them to be most effective.

It is also recommended that you speak with your doctor before taking any new dietary supplements, especially if they are meant to replace or supplement any prescribed medication.

Types of magnesium supplements

Here are the three most common types of magnesium supplements:

• Magnesium Oxide – This form of magnesium is often used to treat indigestion, heartburn and constipation. It may help reduce symptoms of acid reflux, but it is not as easily absorbed by the body as other forms of magnesium.
• Magnesium Citrate – This type of supplement is believed to be the most effective for treating acid reflux. It is also known to offer a range of other health benefits, such as aiding in digestion and improving immunity.
• Magnesium Oil – This form of magnesium supplement is applied directly to the skin and absorbed through your pores. It may help reduce symptoms of acid reflux, but should not be used as a substitute for oral magnesium supplements.

Recommended doses for treating acid reflux with magnesium

When taking magnesium for acid reflux, your doctor may recommend a dosage of 200-400 milligrams per day.

It is important to note that this recommendation is based solely on general guidelines and does not necessarily reflect the appropriate dose for every individual.

In addition, it is recommended that you start with lower doses when first introducing oral magnesium supplements to your routine, and increase gradually over time.

It is also important to remember that magnesium antacids can interact with certain medications and other supplements, so it is always best to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your daily regimen.

Are there any side effects to taking magnesium supplements for acid reflux relief

Here are the three most common side effects of taking magnesium supplements for acid reflux:

• Diarrhea – Taking too much magnesium can cause diarrhea. If you experience this symptom, try reducing your dose and talk to your doctor about other ways to reduce your symptoms.
• Headaches – Taking too much magnesium can also lead to headaches in some people. If this occurs, try reducing your dosage and speak to your doctor if the headaches persist.
• Muscle Weakness – Long-term magnesium supplementation can lead to muscle weakness in some individuals. If you experience this symptom, reduce your dosage and talk to your doctor about other ways to manage acid reflux symptoms without magnesium.

What is the best form of magnesium for acid reflux?

The best form of magnesium supplement for acid reflux is magnesium citrate. This form of magnesium has been clinically proven to reduce acid reflux symptoms and symptoms of GERD, as well as help prevent stomach acid and its recurrence.

It is also one of the most easily absorbed forms of oral magnesium and therefore is more likely to be effective.

It is important to note, however, that every individual is unique in terms of their dietary needs and supplements will affect each person differently.

Therefore, it is always best to speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen in order to ensure your safety and get the most out of your treatment.

FAQs

Conclusion

In conclusion, magnesium supplements can potentially cause acid reflux and heartburn in some people.

It's important to carefully balance the amount of magnesium you take with other medications or dietary changes to ensure its benefits outweigh any possible side effects.

You should always talk to your doctor before making any significant changes to your diet or supplementation regimen.

If you want to try out magnesium supplements as a way of managing your acid reflux, it is recommended that you start slowly, at doses less than 250 milligrams per day, and increase gradually if needed.

Finally, if acid reflux symptoms do occur make sure to contact your doctor for further recommendations.

There are many potential useful benefits of magnesium supplements and the most important thing is getting the right advice tailored specifically for you so that any prescribed treatments will be appropriate to your individual needs.