Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Magnesium can be a helpful tool
Do you or someone you love suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)? You're not alone: IBS is affecting a growing number of people in Canada, with 18% of Canadians diagnosed with the condition.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a group of symptoms that occur together, including abdominal discomfort and frequent changes in your bowel habits, which can range from constipation to diarrhea, or both. Those who suffer from IBS may experience these symptoms without any visible signs of damage or disease in the digestive tract.
While there is no magic supplement that will cure IBS, there are several options that can work as a natural remedy for IBS related symptoms. One of the top contenders is (you guessed it!) magnesium.
Magnesium for Constipation
Constipation is a common issue for those who suffer from IBS. It is characterized by difficulty in passing stool, infrequent bowel movements, and hard, dry stools. While there are many possible causes of IBS-related constipation, inadequate dietary fibre and water intake are sometimes contributing factors.
This is where magnesium can help: magnesium has been shown to help alleviate constipation by increasing the water content in the intestines, which softens stools and makes them easier to pass. In addition, magnesium helps to relax the muscles of the intestinal walls, which can reduce the discomfort and bloating that is often associated with constipation.
There are many forms of magnesium supplements on the market, but magnesium citrate is generally considered the most effective form for relieving constipation, as it is more readily absorbed by the body. MAG365 is an ionic magnesium citrate, which makes it even easier for the body to absorb and utilize for relief from IBS that is characterized by constipation.
Magnesium for Diarrhea
There is an established correlation between emotional distress and worsened IBS symptoms such as diarrhea.
Many people experience stress or anxiety on a daily basis, and both can have a significant impact on a person's physical wellbeing — especially in those who suffer from IBS. Incidentally, one of the most common physical symptoms of stress/anxiety is diarrhea. While stress and anxiety-related diarrhea is a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, magnesium can help here, too!
Research shows magnesium has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can be especially beneficial for those suffering from IBS.
In fact, studies suggest that magnesium supplementation can improve symptoms of anxiety and stress. In one notable study, participants who supplemented with magnesium for six weeks reported a reduction in both anxiety and stress levels, as well as improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms.
If your IBS is characterized by frequent bouts of diarrhea, a magnesium bisglycinate such as PrizMAG Pure Magnesium Bisglycinate is recommended. Magnesium bisglycinate is gentle on the digestive tract and does not lead to diarrhea like some other forms of magnesium.
IBS and Sleep
People who suffer from IBS are more prone to insomnia, with 40% of those diagnosed with the condition reporting regular sleep disturbances.
Gut health and sleep are closely linked, so getting adequate sleep is a significant key to reducing symptoms of IBS.
Magnesium is well known for its sleep-promoting benefits. As we know, magnesium helps to reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. It does this in a few ways, but one key way it helps to promote sounder sleep is its involvement in the production of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps calm the nervous system. Magnesium also helps to relax muscles, which aids the body in unwinding at the end of the day.
Magnesium is also shown to improve overall sleep quality by increasing the amount of time spent in deep sleep. And its benefits don't end there: Magnesium also helps to regulate the production of melatonin, a hormone that plays a key role in the sleep-wake cycle.
Which form of magnesium is best for IBS?
Magnesium is a natural remedy for IBS and can be a helpful tool to add to your IBS-busting toolkit. From constipation relief to a reduction in stress-related diarrhea to better overall sleep, magnesium hits a number of the pain points associated with IBS.
The type of magnesium matters. You want to ensure you're getting a magnesium that is pure and easy for the body to absorb. If you're looking for a supplement to help with constipation, MAG365 is a great choice*, as it is 100% pure ionic magnesium citrate that is formulated for quick and efficient absorption. Alternatively, if you're looking for a supplement to help with stress-induced diarrhea and for better overall sleep, PrizMAG Pure Magnesium Bisglycinate* is your best bet. Many magnesium bisglycinate supplements are buffered with magnesium oxide, which not only has a low absorption rate but is also known to cause diarrhea. PrizMAG is 100% free of fillers, binders, stearate and magnesium oxide, and it's one of the gentlest forms of magnesium on the market. It's also award-winning for sleep.
*Be sure to consult with your health care provider before starting a new supplement regimen if you suffer from IBS.