Living with acid reflux can be uncomfortable and disruptive. While occasional acid reflux can be managed with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, some of these remedies contain magnesium. Magnesium, combined with other ingredients, may help neutralize stomach acid and provide short-term relief from acid reflux symptoms.

In this article, we explore how magnesium can be used to treat acid reflux, its potential risks, and other treatment options.

Research on Magnesium and Acid Reflux

Magnesium is found in several forms, including:

• Magnesium hydroxide
• Magnesium oxide
• Magnesium carbonate

Magnesium oxide is a common ingredient in supplements used to treat symptoms like acid reflux and heartburn. Additionally, magnesium hydroxide and magnesium carbonate are frequently combined with other ingredients like aluminum hydroxide or calcium carbonate in antacids. These combinations help neutralize stomach acid, providing relief from acid reflux.

Moreover, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which reduce stomach acid production, can lower magnesium levels in the body. Doctors may recommend magnesium supplements to counteract this effect, ensuring adequate magnesium levels for overall health.

Risks and Warnings

While magnesium-based antacids are generally safe for most people, they can cause side effects. The most common issue is diarrhea. To reduce this, aluminum hydroxide is often included in OTC antacids, though it may cause constipation.

Additionally, chronic use of antacids or proton pump inhibitors can reduce stomach acid, which is necessary for the proper absorption of magnesium. This can worsen magnesium deficiencies over time.

Excessive magnesium intake—over 350 milligrams per day—can lead to diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramping. Individuals with kidney problems are particularly at risk of magnesium toxicity, as their kidneys may struggle to excrete excess magnesium.

Symptoms of magnesium overdose, or hypermagnesemia, include:

• Lethargy
• Abnormal heart rhythms
• Low blood pressure
• Respiratory distress

If magnesium levels exceed 3 to 5 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood, a magnesium overdose can become life-threatening and may require medical intervention.

Other Treatments for Acid Reflux

Aside from magnesium-based medications, several lifestyle changes can help reduce acid reflux symptoms:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
• Exercise regularly.
• Lose weight, if applicable.
• Elevate the head of your bed by 6 inches to prevent nighttime reflux.
• Avoid late-night snacking and certain reflux-triggering foods.

In some cases, alternative therapies like herbal supplements or acupuncture may help, but these should be used with caution since they aren’t regulated by the FDA.

Takeaway

Magnesium-containing products, such as antacids, can provide short-term relief from acid reflux by neutralizing stomach acid. However, magnesium supplements and antacids should be used cautiously to avoid side effects, including diarrhea and magnesium toxicity. It’s important to stick to the recommended dosage (no more than 350 mg per day) and consult your doctor before starting magnesium supplements, especially if you have kidney problems.

In addition to medications, lifestyle modifications like eating smaller meals, losing weight, and avoiding trigger foods can help manage acid reflux symptoms. If your symptoms persist, consult your doctor to discuss long-term treatment options, including medication or surgery.