What the research says
There are many OTC and prescription treatment options available for occasional acid reflux. They include antacids, H2 receptors, and proton pump inhibitors.
Magnesium is an ingredient found in many treatments for acid reflux. Antacids frequently combine magnesium hydroxide or magnesium carbonate with aluminum hydroxide or calcium carbonate. These mixtures can neutralize acid and relieve your symptoms.
Magnesium can also be found in other treatments, such as proton pump inhibitors. Proton pump inhibitors reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes. A 2014 study concluded that proton pump inhibitors containing pantoprazole magnesium improved GERD.
Risks and warnings
- Some people may experience side effects after consuming magnesium.
- Antacids aren’t recommended for children or people with kidney disease.
- Proton pump inhibitors aren’t recommended for extended use.
Although magnesium antacids are generally well-tolerated, some people may experience side effects. Magnesium antacids can cause diarrhea. To combat this, aluminum hydroxide is often included in OTC antacid medications. Aluminum antacids can cause constipation.
One drawback is that antacids with aluminum can cause calcium loss, which can lead to osteoporosis. Antacids should only be used to alleviate occasional acid reflux.
Stomach acid is necessary to help absorb magnesium in the stomach. Chronic use of antacids, proton pump inhibitors, and other acid-blocking medications can decrease overall stomach acid and perpetuate poor magnesium absorption.
Excessive magnesium supplementation, or over 350 milligrams (mg) per day, can also result in diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramping.
More adverse reactions are seen in those with compromised kidney function. This is because the kidneys can’t adequately excrete excess magnesium.
Fatal reactions have been identified in doses above 5,000 mg per day.
Also consider Releaf Alkaline Tablets, which contain many minerals, including magnesium, to assist with the relief of heartburn, excessive stomach acid and acid indigestion.
