Magnesium oxide is a white solid mineral with numerous applications. In medicine, magnesium oxide is used for relief of heartburn as an antacid, magnesium supplement and as a short-term laxative. Recently, magnesium oxide has gained popularity as an effective and safe intestinal cleanser. On the other hand, many athletes also supplement their diets with magnesium oxide to absorb the essential mineral magnesium; it is believed that magnesium may help in preventing muscle cramping and dehydration.
As a laxative, magnesium oxide is an excellent choice. Many consider magnesium oxide to be the safest colon cleanser as it is gentle yet effective without the gripping and cramping pain associated with other laxatives. When magnesium oxide is consumed, it is generally dissolved in water, allowing a large amount of oxygen to be liberated into the intestinal tract. This added oxygen encourages the growth of healthy bacteria while inhibiting that of unhealthy bacteria and fungi. Simultaneously, magnesium oxide promotes hydration in the intestines. That is, after the oxygen is released from the magnesium oxide, it reacts with hydrogen and forms water. This hydration process gradually softens the hard, impacted faecal matter, enabling leftover toxins to easily pass out of the body. What’s more, this hydration also helps in removing undigested rubbish that is stuck to the bowel walls, improving the absorption of nutrients. Besides being an effective laxative that cleanses the entire intestinal tract, magnesium oxide is also used as a supplement for magnesium. Required for bone and protein formation, magnesium is also necessary for building new cells, activating the B vitamins and relaxing muscles. Those who perform intensive exercise lose a lot of magnesium through sweat and urination. Therefore, many athletes will replenish their need for magnesium with electrolyte drinks.
Magnesium oxide is commonly found as a white powder and consumed after being dissolved in water. It is suggested that one should strive for a dosage that will stimulate two to three bowel movements per day. This daily dosage may range from half a teaspoon to two heaping teaspoons
