Best Magnesium for Toddlers’ Constipation

Is your little one struggling to stay regular? Or telling you that it hurts when they poop? They might be struggling with chronic constipation, which is extremely common in toddlers. Up to 30% of children worldwide report some level of constipation (1). 

Although common, chronic constipation can be difficult to treat. It often comes back if short-term medications or laxatives are used.  

Along with using a prebiotic like  Growing Up Prebiotics to improve your toddler’s overall gut health, magnesium is an evidence-based, long-term, natural, and gentle way to get their poop schedule back on track.

What is Magnesium & Why Does it Help With Constipation?

Magnesium is an essential mineral that  naturally occurs in food or can be taken in a supplement form. 

It acts as an osmotic laxative, which means it pulls water into the intestine to help soften stool. This process also triggers the intestine to contract, leading to more frequent bowel movements (2).

Begin Health Expert Tip

Kids not eating enough magnesium? Check out this list of the top 10 magnesium rich foods for kids. 

Types of Magnesium: Which is Best for Toddlers’ Constipation?

There are 11 forms of magnesium, each having a different intended effect on the body. The two most common sources to treat constipation are magnesium citrate and magnesium oxide. 

• Magnesium Citrate. One of the most easily absorbed forms of magnesium and provides a gentle laxative effect (3). Plus, it has positive effects on the nervous system and could reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress in your little one (4).
• Magnesium Oxide. Also provides a laxative effect by softening the stool. However, it is less easily absorbed so if your kid has a known magnesium deficiency, this is not the best option (3). However, if your little one struggles with heartburn, magnesium oxide has been shown to help reduce acid indigestion and is even found in many over-the-counter antacids (5). 

Both forms of magnesium can provide your kiddos  with a natural gentle laxative effect. Picking the form of magnesium will depend on your kid’s specific needs.

How to Use Magnesium for Toddlers

Dosage Tips

Like any new supplement in your kid’s routine, start with a low dose and gradually increase as your toddler tolerates it. 

Based on the  2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, toddlers ages 1-3 should consume 80mg of magnesium daily. However, this amount is only to prevent deficiency, and your toddler might need more if they struggle with chronic constipation.

The  National Institute of Health recommends toddlers ages 1-3 should not consume more than 65mg of additional magnesium through supplements. Because this amount is much lower than the average magnesium supplement (300-600mg), consult your toddler’s pediatrician before starting a magnesium supplement.

Forms to Consider

Magnesium supplements for toddlers come in both powder and gummy forms. Although both provide similar magnesium benefits, it’s important to avoid extra ingredients like artificial sweeteners, food dyes, or added sugars.

Signs that a Magnesium Supplement is Working 

The intended outcome of magnesium supplementation is more regular bowel movements and lack of pain while pooping. 

If you find your kiddo is having too severe of symptoms (diarrhea when on magnesium and constipation when they stop taking it), I recommend adding in a more gentle daily supplement for improved gut health - prebiotics. Begin Health’s  Growing Up Prebiotics have been shown to improve stool consistency, stool regularity, and a decrease in pain while stooling within 6 weeks of daily use (6). 

Magnesium for Toddlers FAQ 

Is magnesium safe for toddlers?

Magnesium supplements are generally safe for toddlers as long as they are taken in appropriate doses. If taken in excess, the most common symptoms are diarrhea and abdominal cramping. If this occurs, stop the magnesium supplement and wait for symptoms to subside. 

Is magnesium good for toddler constipation?

Yes! Magnesium has been shown to help pull water into the intestines to help soften stool. This improves stool consistency and stool frequency. 

How do you know if your toddler needs magnesium?

Your toddler might need magnesium if they admit to pain while pooping or start pooping less often than they used to. 

Summary 

Magnesium is a natural, gentle, and long-term option to reduce constipation symptoms in toddlers. In the appropriate form and dose, magnesium can help improve stool consistency and frequency in toddlers and kids.