Most Common Side Effects Of Dietary Supplements

Constipation Or Diarrhea

Many vitamins, herbs, and minerals are associated with changes in bowel habits, including constipation or diarrhea. For example, both calcium and iron can trigger constipation. Patients who experience constipation due to calcium supplements may want to try taking calcium citrate supplements instead of using calcium carbonate, and spreading calcium doses across the day may be beneficial. To reduce the risk of constipation from both calcium and iron, doctors recommend eating a diet rich in fiber. Some patients may need to take stool softeners or laxatives to relieve their symptoms. Supplements known to have a laxative effect and the potential to cause diarrhea include magnesium, aloe vera juice, senna, turmeric, and lobelia. Patients who believe a supplement could be causing their diarrhea might want to start by reducing their dose. Taking small doses spread across the day (instead of one large dose) may reduce the risk of diarrhea as well. To treat diarrhea at home, patients should build meals around low-fiber foods such as toast, applesauce, and white rice. Baked potatoes (without skin) and chicken soup may be soothing too. If necessary, taking an over-the-counter medication such as loperamide could ease symptoms.

Get more details on the most common side effects linked to dietary supplements now.