The magnesium carbonate is a chemical compound based on the formula of magnesium. It is a micronutrient necessary for humans and is present in foods such as vegetables, although it can also be taken as a daily dose through capsules and powder included in supplements.
This mineral is considered an essential nutrient, as its intake is necessary for the body to metabolize it. Humans and animals cannot synthesize it naturally, which is why it is always recommended to include it in the diet and, when necessary, take a product containing it to avoid deficiencies and nervous system problems.
Contents
What is magnesium carbonate?
It is a mineral that works as a nutrient in the human body. It can be found naturally in nature, forming part of rocks and sediments.
Magnesium carbonate has a chemical formula MgCO3 and is white, solid, and extracted from the mineral called magnesite. This mineral is mainly composed of magnesium in its carbonated form, in addition to containing iron, calcium, carbon monoxide, and nickel.
In its natural state, it is toxic, requiring extraction, processing, and purification to obtain all its properties and health benefits. We now find different formulas and commercial presentations such as lactate, magnesium chelate, aspartate, chloride, and carbonate, the one discussed in this article, magnesium carbonate.
What is it used for?
As a micronutrient necessary for many body functions, magnesium carbonate helps regulate sleep function, restore brain function balance, and even assist the muscular system and improve calcium absorption in bones.
Magnesium has many functions, all of which are related to vital functions.
But if you have questions about what magnesium carbonate is used for, we list its functions in a table below:
- Regulate the sleep cycle.
- Promote bowel movements (it is a laxative).
- Fix calcium in bones.
- Eliminate fatigue and chronic tiredness.
- Produce proteins and allow their absorption.
- Maintain proper brain function.
- Achieve proper cell division.
- Regulate the body’s electrolyte balance.
Laxative for constipation
It belongs to the group of laxatives, providing benefits against constipation. Magnesium carbonate for constipation is very effective and, in many cases, gastroenterologists recommend it as a medicinal product for its properties.
By increasing the daily dose, it will have a purgative effect on the intestines, facilitating bowel movements.
Laxative properties are usually associated with high doses, which can lead to diarrhea.
Doses exceeding 500 mg are considered laxatives. However, if you are seeking this property, it is best to have it recommended by a specialist evaluating your case. For this purpose, magnesium chloride is much more effective.
Properties and Benefits
Since it participates in many essential systems of vertebrate animals, including humans, magnesium carbonate has health benefits.
The electrolyte balance, muscle function, and central nervous system benefit from this substance when it enters the stomach.
Thus, we can state that the properties and benefits of magnesium carbonate are:
- Stabilizing the nervous system.
- Regulating fatigue processes.
- For muscles, tendons, and nerve endings.
- To improve the production of natural proteins.
- Increase the absorption of food nutrients.
- To allow the transmission of synaptic signals and the transfer of information between neurons and the nervous system of the whole body.
- Laxative.
The use of magnesium carbonate as a nutritional supplement is authorized by the EU, by the FDA, and by most global organizations.
MgCO3 has been extensively studied, both for its properties and health benefits, also considering its possible side effects and contraindications, which we explain below.
Side Effects and Contraindications
Although, as mentioned, possible adverse reactions and cases where it should not be used have been studied, there are some differences between taking magnesium carbonate and its other forms like lactate or chelate, to name a few.
If you are interested in learning about its effects on the body, we recommend reading the full information on the side effects and contraindications of magnesium.
In this section, you will learn about the discomfort it causes, whether magnesium diarrhea is normal, and if you take any medication or treatment, the convenience or not of taking it in powder form or from food.
Many people have some sensitivity to the side effects of magnesium carbonate, which is why it is recommended to always take it with food.
If you notice diarrhea after taking the magnesium carbonate dose, when the symptoms subside, try taking it after having eaten something. Most people avoid this adverse reaction simply by eating a fruit, but remember, one of its properties is being a potent laxative.
How to Take Magnesium Carbonate
There are two basic methods for taking magnesium carbonate or, alternatively, avoiding magnesium deficiency in the body:
- Consume it through food.
- Take it through supplements sold in capsules and powder.
From Food
This is the easiest and most useful way for most people. Simply include many fruits and vegetables, legumes, and nuts in your diet.
Chocolate also plays an important role, a food that comes from cocoa, and like many other fruits, its content helps restore and control blood levels.
You can see the best magnesium-rich foods and discover natural products that you may not have known contained magnesium.
Powder and Capsules
This is one of the most commonly used forms to avoid deficiencies in the body. Taking magnesium carbonate in powder form is very simple, and using tablets makes the task easier.
To learn how to take magnesium carbonate, follow these steps:
- Take 1 to 2 pills per day with a large glass of water.
- Optionally, to avoid some of its side effects like diarrhea, eat food before swallowing the pills.
It is only necessary to take it once a day, generally in a single daily dose.
The amounts may vary depending on the brand you buy. However, the recommended daily amount and exact dosage have been established, so you must follow it as per the instructions on the packaging to avoid overdosing or consuming more than necessary.
Constipation
For its laxative effects, it is ideal to take it at night. This way, magnesium carbonate for constipation can work over several hours, and by morning, you will likely feel the urge to go to the bathroom.
The dose for constipation should remain the same and should not be exceeded unless recommended by a doctor.
For more potent effects, it is recommended not to eat food. This usually works if you take it in the morning, as skipping dinner may make it hard to sleep. Many people take it after waking up, and its effects take place within minutes, with the urge to use the bathroom becoming persistent.
Weight Loss
Although it is not a product or nutrient specifically designed for weight loss, the properties of magnesium for weight loss can be beneficial in certain cases.
This mineral acts as a micronutrient, improving digestion and the absorption of food, which leads to benefits for digesting and absorbing fats. Additionally, since it has laxative effects, it will help evacuate waste correctly, reducing bloating and the sensation of increased volume in the stomach area.
As with constipation, the dose of magnesium carbonate for weight loss should follow the recommended daily intake. These are listed below.
Dosage
The dosage of magnesium carbonate should depend on age and personal condition. There are differences in the basic needs between children and adults, and variations in the dose needed for pregnant women.
Below is the recommended daily dosage for all cases:
| Person and Age | Dosage (mg) |
|---|---|
| Men | 400 to 420 |
| Women | 310 to 320 |
| Pregnancy | 350 to 360 |
| Breastfeeding Women | 310 to 320 |
| Adolescents (boys) | 410 |
| Adolescents (girls) | 360 |
| Pregnant Adolescents | 400 |
| Breastfeeding Adolescents | 360 |
| Children 9 to 13 years | 240 |
| Children 4 to 8 years | 130 |
| Children 1 to 3 years | 80 |
| Infants 7 to 12 months | 75 |
| Infants and newborns up to 6 months | 30 |
| Constipation | 500 (always consult) |
The dosage for adolescents is considered valid for ages between 14 and 18, and the indicated amounts should be followed or adjusted based on whether the age is higher or lower.
Regarding exceeding the dosage or causing an excess of magnesium carbonate, it is quite difficult for this to occur. The excess amounts are expelled through the human excretory system, meaning with urine and feces, so the amounts the body cannot use will be discarded.
However, this does not mean it can be taken without control; it is difficult to have an excess in the body, but whenever you take it, follow the instructions.
Magnesium Carbonate vs Magnesium Chloride
Both forms are very good for people’s health, but depending on the effects you are looking for, you might need one or the other presentation. Magnesium chloride has strong laxative effects, while carbonate and lactate are much milder, providing fewer benefits against constipation.
Another difference between magnesium carbonate and chloride is that the latter may have a metallic or even acidic taste, causing some people to experience gagging and vomiting.
To avoid this, the carbonated form is better. Its taste is milder and more pleasant, not altering the taste of the palate.
Regarding their differences for the stomach, carbonate also acts as a stomach protector because its pH is alkaline, higher than that of chloride. It is also used to treat hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux. If you suffer from these conditions, you should avoid taking magnesium chloride.
What is the price?
The advantage of its sale is that it is very affordable, making it accessible to everyone. The price of magnesium carbonate ranges between 4 and 7 $.
Costs can vary depending on the brand, container size, or the number of pills included in the package.
Hello, I’m Juanma. I imagine this will be a gluten-free product. I take it in a glass of blueberries, add two teaspoons of magnesium carbonate, and drink it. Is this correct? Thank you.
Sir, gluten is only found in cereals. Magnesium is a mineral, not a cereal.
Salt is not a cereal either, yet there are some salt brands with gluten and others without it. It’s important to gather information before responding arrogantly. Best regards.
Good morning, I’m Concha Vallejo. I completely agree that it’s essential for emotional balance.
People with lactose intolerance, can we take it?
What’s the difference between magnesium chloride and magnesium? I take a teaspoon of magnesium chloride with water at night for constipation, and in the morning, a 400mg magnesium tablet. Please tell me if I’m doing it right or not. Thank you and best regards.
Sorry, I meant magnesium carbonate (which is what I take), not magnesium chloride. Thank you.
Do you read baby?
Magnesium carbonate is the one with the least laxative effect.
Magnesium comes in three types: magnesium, magnesium carbonate, and magnesium chloride
Hello, does the magnesium carbonate sold in the pharmacy as a square chalk-like tablet work for ingestion?
Yes, in fact, the packaging recommends taking a third of it. You can either bite it or dissolve it in water. Personally, I bite it because it tastes better. This product is great for weight loss; you lose weight slowly, but it’s better because there’s no rebound effect.
I bought magnesium carbonate at a Idaho store, and it came in the form of a hard bar. Is this real? I live in the United States.
Hello Amparo, it’s possible that they sent magnesium carbonate for climbing. Check the product’s instructions.
Hello, I live in Montana, and I buy the bar. I like to cut a piece, crumble it in my mouth, and then drink water.
This bar I buy in Montana contains 3.5 grams, and I cut it into 10 pieces since the recommended dosage is 350mg for adults.
Hello, do you think I can give my 8-year-old daughter magnesium carbonate, and what quantity?
In the article I was reading, it mentions the portion for children at 8 years old, but I didn’t pay attention. Please check if I read it correctly.
Hello, I’ve been consuming magnesium carbonate for two and a half years. I have a strong urge to eat dirt, and while I’ve lost weight, it also helps me feel great. The only thing is I’ve started consuming a whole piece a day, the kind they sell at the pharmacy. I’m concerned because I’m not sure if this might have long-term consequences, as I feel it’s becoming a habit and I can’t stop eating it. Can someone guide me, please? Thank you.
Hello Antonia, I’ve also eaten it, and I wait to get home to eat it. I often get anxious when I can’t find it in pharmacies. I struggle to find it, and that’s when I feel the urge to eat dirt, haha. I’m not sure if it will have consequences, but I keep eating it too. As you say, it’s a habit, and I would also like to know if it’s harmful?
Hello, for those who have the urge to eat dirt, ice, paper, clay, get a check-up for anemia or thyroid issues… just in case.
Hello, I’m interested in the product. How do I acquire it?
I started eating magnesium carbonate because a medical friend recommended it. I used to feel tired and lacked energy all day. He recommended the kind that comes in a square shape, like chalk. At first, I didn’t like it, so I ate a third of it. Then I started to like it and ate a whole one every day, but I had to go to the bathroom a lot, and it was uncomfortable because it was very explosive when I had to go to public restrooms. Now, I only eat a third of it every night around 7 PM, and very early at 6 AM, I go to the bathroom, but I don’t need to go again until the next day. It’s much better now. I’ve lost weight, feel great, have energy, and the belly fat I got in my 40s has gone down. It’s really difficult to lose, but I’ve gotten addicted to magnesium carbonate, but I’m happy.
My question is very specific. Can magnesium carbonate be taken for constipation caused by iron supplements? That is, if I’m taking iron as prescribed by my doctor for moderate anemia, can I also take magnesium carbonate, or does it interfere with the iron in any way?
Hello, I’ve been eating it for 6 months because I suffer from cramps, and it has helped me a lot. I recommend it. Best regards to everyone.
Yes, it works very well for cramps and for eczema too.
Hello, my question is: can I continue taking magnesium carbonate if I’m pregnant? Best regards.
y si se lo preguntaras al médico mejor???
Un saludo
Hello, my name is Carmen, and I’ve been consuming magnesium carbonate (the kind that comes in square pieces like chalk) for 6 months. I have a strong urge to eat it, and I love its taste, but I’m worried it might be harmful. Currently, I’m taking iron, but I still continue consuming it. It feels like a need and craving. Help
Hello Carmen, there’s no problem taking magnesium carbonate for a while, although it’s always a good idea to do so when necessary, just like with all dietary supplements. If it’s helping you and you feel better, you can keep taking it. Do you take iron for a specific reason?
Hello, is there any difference between the powder form of magnesium carbonate and the kind used for climbing? They seem to be the same.
The climbing type is not suitable for human consumption as it may contain impurities, other metals, etc.
It really works, magnesium carbonate. My son suffered for about two years or more, had numerous tests done, tried all kinds of laxatives, teas, etc. My son’s constipation was truly worrying as he would go up to fifteen days without being able to go to the bathroom. He told me about magnesium chloride, and it worked for him only two times out of six. It also tastes horrible. Out of concern, I began to research, and I found a testimony from a lady who had the same problem my son had. I kept researching and concluded that I should buy it. It’s a miracle! Taking a teaspoon in the morning dissolved in a little orange juice, lemon, or mandarin juice, drink it quickly, and you’ll see the results. At first, he passed water, but later, he began to expel solid waste. Be consistent, it will really help you. Give it a try, it’s truly a WONDER!
Thank you for sharing your experience. I’m sure it will help other people with children who suffer from constipation.
Hello, I have fibromyalgia. I would like to know if magnesium carbonate would be useful for my condition.
I can’t tell you for sure whether it will help with fibromyalgia, as I’m not familiar with the specifics of your case, and as you know, it’s a complex condition. However, what I can tell you is that it works wonders for muscles and the nervous system. I would recommend consulting with your doctor to try different doses and observe the results.
Hello, I’ve been eating a whole piece every day since my last child was born, and now it’s a habit I can’t break. I’m concerned because, obviously, anything in excess can be harmful. I’d like to know what complications I could have.
As with anything, it should be taken in moderation. When needed, like other minerals, it’s beneficial.
Hello, I’ve heard that magnesium carbonate is good for a hiatal hernia. Is that true? In this case, when should I take it—before meals, after meals, or outside meals—and what dosage should I take? Thank you.
Hello Gloria, we’ve updated the text, including references and explanations about digestive problems, hernias, etc. It’s generally recommended, but you should start slowly. Regarding the dosage of magnesium carbonate, we’ve also included it. Depending on age and other factors, it may vary, but it ranges between 300 mg and 400 mg, depending on whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Just wanted to thank you, and I’ll try it out because I have a hiatal hernia, and it’s a bothersome condition
Thank you for reading us. Let us know how it goes.