Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Dear Terry, “My teenage son has been suffering from “bathroom issues” for over 2 years now. He is very gassy and it can take over 20 minutes for him to have a bowel movement. We have taken him to multiple doctors, as well as a psychologist, who all think his issues are based on “habit”. He is currently taking probiotics at the recommendation of a local health food store. Do you have any additional suggestions? Thanks!” — Maggie S., Frankfort, KY

A. Dear Maggie, I recommend that your son try taking magnesium oxide or citrate, which you can find at your local health food store. Magnesium is hydroscopic, which means it draws fluid into the colon to help soften and eliminate the stool.

Because everybody requires a different dosage, I would start off with approximately a 250 mg capsule and increase the dosage slowly day by day until he gets proper elimination. Please note that if he takes too much, it will eventually cause a loose stool and diarrhea. If this happens, just reduce the dosage below the level of diarrhea.

I would also recommend consuming 1/4 cup of raw almonds or walnuts and 1/4 cup of raisins in the evening. It’s also important that your son is drinking adequate amounts of water (6 to 8 eight ounce glasses) every day. Within a few weeks he should have proper elimination.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally