What Causes Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency can be caused by specific medical conditions, such as:
- Cystic fibrosis, Crohns disease, and celiac disease: These diseases do not allow the intestines to absorb enough vitamin D through supplements.
- Weight loss surgeries. Weight loss surgeries that reduce the size of the stomach and/or bypasses part of the small intestines make it very difficult to consume sufficient quantities of certain nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. These individuals need to be carefully monitored by their doctors and need to continue to take vitamin D and other supplements throughout their lives.
- Obesity: A body mass index greater than 30 is associated with lower vitamin D levels. Fat cells keep vitamin D isolated so that it is not released. Vitamin D deficiency is more likely in obese people. Obesity often makes it necessary to take larger doses of vitamin D supplements in order to reach and maintain normal D levels.
- Kidney and liver diseases: These diseases reduce the amount of an enzyme needed to change vitamin D to a form that is used in the body. Lack of this enzyme leads to an inadequate level of active vitamin D in the body.
Do Womens Multivitamins Cause Constipation
Constipation is one of the side effects of taking multivitamins that is not well known. In addition to diarrhea and indigestion, there are other digestive problems. It may only take a short time for your system to adjust to taking a daily vitamin for some side effects. A certain vitamin or mineral can also be taken in excess.
Ferrous Sulfate Versus Iv Iron
For the 23 studies that included intravenous iron as the comparator a significant increase in the incidence of gastrointestinal side-effects was observed with ferrous sulfate with an OR = 3.05 . Furthermore, mean hemoglobin increase was reported for 20 of the 23 eligible IV iron-controlled trials . Overall, for these 20 trials, the mean increase in hemoglobin for the ferrous sulfate arm was lower than for the IV iron arm although formal comparative analysis was not undertaken being outside the a priori objectives of our analysis .
Effect of daily ferrous sulfate supplementation on the incidence of gastrointestinal side-effects and hemoglobin repletion in intravenous iron-controlled RCTs.
The IBD subgroup analysis also showed a significantly higher incidence of gastrointestinal side-effects in the ferrous sulfate arm than in the IV iron arm with OR = 3.14 . The same was observed in the pregnancy subgroup analysis , with OR = 9.44 .
Nine out of the 23 IV-iron comparator studies reported zero GI side-effects in the IV-iron arm so, as detailed in Methods, we added the standard correction of 0.5 of a side-effect to each arm to enable calculation of the study-specific log odds ratio. Nevertheless, when we excluded these 9 studies from the meta-analysis the same overall effect was observed with an OR = 2.41 for ferrous sulfate .
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Does Collagen Cause Constipation: How Your Supplements May Be Interfering With Mother Nature’s Call
Collagen is seen by many as the perfect sports and anti-aging supplement – but like anything you eat, there is a potential for side effects. Thats why one question we get from some customers is: Does collagen cause constipation?
In some cases, it might!
Anytime you introduce a new product into your diet, you should do so with caution and some guidance on the proper dosage. Even when taking these steps though, unexpected results and adverse effects may occur.
The short answer to the question, does collagen cause constipation? is maybe. In some cases collagen may cause digestive problems like constipation.
So, how does collagen cause constipation and how do you make sure that your collagen supplement doesnt cause any side effects?
Which Foods & Supplements Cause Constipation
Are you facing constipation? Read this full guide on which foods & supplements cause constipation?
Constipation is a frequent intestinal problem. Approximately 16% of Americans and 1/3 of over 60 are complaining of persistent constipation. More than 700,000 emergency visits were made by constipation between 2006 and 2011. To know which foods and supplements cause constipation, stick to the article.
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Find Natural Sources Of Iron
Eating iron-rich foods in your diet is the best way to avoid an iron deficiency and constipation from having to take iron pills. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says your body absorbs two to three times more iron from animal sources than from plants. Foods with the highest content of iron include lean beef, turkey, chicken and oysters.
If you are a vegetarian who does not eat meat, fish or poultry, the National Institute of Health suggests you need 1.8 times the recommended dietary allowance. The reason is youre getting your iron from plants in the form of non-heme iron that your body doesnt absorb as well as heme iron from animal foods. Good sources of iron for vegetarians include beans, dark green leafy vegetables, tofu, whole grains and nuts. Adding a source of vitamin C will enhance the absorption of iron.
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Most Common And Most Constipating
Ferrous Sulphate & Ferrous Fumarate Ferrous refers to iron , and sulphate is exactly what it says: sulphate. This is a sulphur atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms, attached to a charged iron atom. Ferrous fumarate is a type of acid attached to an iron atom. These forms of iron are found in the most commonly prescribed iron supplements, and are readily available in most pharmacies. Theyre also the least absorbable forms, and they are why iron supplementation has a reputation for slowing down the bowels.
We know for sure that supplementation with ferrous sulphate will more often than not cause gastrointestinal symptoms including constipation.
Other symptoms include:
- bloating
- heartburn
A small study demonstrated that ferrous sulphate supplementation caused significantly more gastrointestinal side effects than a placebo.
Another showed that the higher the dose, the more severe the gastrointestinal complaints.
In a 2007 study, most participants were unaware that there are different forms of iron available in supplements, and relied on their physicians to make appropriate recommendations. Despite the well-documented association between constipation and these formulations, most physicians recommended preparations containing ferrous fumarate and ferrous sulphate. These preparations are often the cheapest and most readily available in pharmacies, and are so frequently prescribed because they often have the biggest dose of iron per tablet.
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How Is Vitamin D Deficiency Treated
The goals of treatment and prevention are the sameto reach, and then maintain, an adequate level of vitamin D in the body. While you might consider eating more foods that contain vitamin D and getting a little bit of sunlight, you will likely be told to take vitamin D supplements.
Vitamin D comes in two forms: D2 and D3. D2, also called ergocalciferol, comes from plants. D3, also called cholecalciferol, comes from animals. You need a prescription to get D2. D3, however, is available over the counter. It is more easily absorbed than D2 and lasts longer in the body dose-for-dose. Work with your doctor to find out if you need to take a vitamin supplement and how much to take if it is needed.
Why Do Calcium Supplements Cause Constipation
Watch the video below or read the transcript here as Lara Pizzorno, Bone Health Expert dives in further to this common question. And dont forget to continue reading for more insight not in the video.
Most calcium supplements cause constipation because they supply only calcium or just calcium and vitamin D. It takes a variety of nutrients for proper absorption of calcium, especially magnesium. Magnesium is a natural laxative and thus counterbalances the constipating effects of calcium.
If your calcium supplement and/or your diet lack magnesium then constipation can occur. But with enough magnesium, your colon walls will relax helping you pass stool along. Additionally, magnesium attracts water, meaning more water gets to your colon and softens your stool.
On the flip-side, calcium contracts muscles. If youre getting too much calcium the muscle walls of your colon contract, making it harder to pass stool. The longer your stool sits in the colon, the more water is pulled out of it. This makes the stool dense and hard, making it significantly harder to pass and likely painful.
Magnesium reduces tension on the walls of your colon which allows for a normal peristaltic action. Peristaltic action, also known as peristalsis, means a radially symmetrical contraction and relaxation of muscles which propagates in a wave down the muscular tube. This means the rhythmic movement of your intestinal tract that moves food from one end to the other.
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Who Shouldn’t Take Probiotics
People with Compromised Immune SystemsAlthough probiotics benefit the immune system, they can potentially pose a danger to people in the following circumstance:1. If a person has a compromised immune systems2. AND they have an open IV or central line 3. AND they are being administered probiotics in powder form.
According to one review article, persons who have the highest risk when taking probiotics are immunosuppressed or are premature infants
Minor risks include having a central venous catheter, having an impaired intestinal barrier, cardiac valvular disease, and those simultaneously taking a broad spectrum antibiotic to which the probiotic is resistant, and taking probiotics via a jejestomy tube.
The authors of the review article recommended that probiotics be used with caution if there is one major risk and one minor risk.13
If you have a weakened immune system you should consult your physician before taking a probiotic supplement.
What Are The Types Of Iron Supplements Out There On The Market
There are two common forms of iron supplements. Ferrous form or ferric form of iron are the two common types. The supplement that is the easiest for the body to absorb is ferrous iron.
Pills that contain iron are usually in ferrous form. There are three subcategories of ferrous iron that are sold on the market today: ferrous fumarate, ferrous gluconate, and ferrous sulfate.
When choosing any of these iron supplements its important to look at the elemental iron in each individual serving. Most iron supplements in the ferrous form are sold as a pill. Iron supplements are also available in capsules, drops, and liquids, coated and extended-release capsules.
Tablets and pills are better absorbed and cheaper as well. For adults who have trouble swallowing the pill form and also for children, the liquid form of iron supplements can be useful.
Coated tablets or extended-release capsules have fewer and less severe side effects. However, this form of iron supplement is not absorbed as well in the bloodstream.
Ascorbic acid or vitamin C can help iron be absorbed better. Iron acts better in an acidic/low pH environment.
Iron supplements are great to incorporate in your diet if you are deficient of this important mineral.
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How Often Do You Need To Get Your Vitamin D Levels Checked
Doctors do not usually order routine checks of vitamin D levels, but they might need to check your levels if you have certain medical conditions or risk factors for vitamin D deficiency. Sometimes vitamin D levels can be checked as a cause of symptoms such as long-lasting body aches, a history of falls or bone fractures without significant trauma.
Probiotics Can Cause Diarrhea
Studies have shown how helpful probiotics can be for infectious diarrhea, traveler’s diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and C diff diarrhea. However, they can cause diarrhea in some people.
This negative side effect should pass as your body gets fully adjusted to the new probiotics. In the long run, probiotics should not cause diarrhea. If you have diarrhea that lasts greater than 2 weeks while taking a probiotic then stop taking probiotics.
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What Causes Constipation
Reasons why people get constipated include:
- Unhealthy diet. Constipation is common if a persons diet doesn’t include enough water and fiber, both of which help the bowels move as they should. People who eat lots of processed foods, cheese, white bread and bagels, and meat may find they’re constipated more often. A healthier diet that includes high-fiber foods can keep your poop moving.
- Not enough exercise. Exercise helps food move through the digestive system. So not getting enough physical activity can contribute to constipation.
- Stress. People can get constipated when they’re anxious about something, like schoolwork or a problem at home. Stress can affect how the digestive system works and can cause constipation or diarrhea.
- Ignoring the natural urge to go. Avoiding going to the bathroom, even when you really have the urge to go, can lead to constipation. When you ignore the urge to go, it can be harder to go later on.
- Some medicines. Medicines like iron supplements and antidepressants can lead to constipation.
In rare cases, constipation is a sign of a medical problem. Call your doctor if youre concerned about your bowel movements.
Drink Plenty Of Fluids
Water plays a large part in keeping your body healthy. It is essential for keeping fecal matter flowing through the intestines. Although most people have heard that you should drink six to eight glasses of water a day, you might not need to consume that much. Four to six cups of water per day are generally enough for healthy people, according to Harvard Health.
Some medications cause you to retain water, and some health conditions require you to limit your fluid intake. If you are taking medications that cause constipation, you should talk to your doctor about how much water you should be drinking.
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Getting Rid Of Constipation Caused By Vitamins Or Due To Other Factors
It has been seen that there are times when one needs to take in vitamins to meet the nutritional deficiencies in the body. And the problem of constipation also exists. In such cases, you have to learn the various ways in which the problem of constipation can be dealt with successfully. Mentioned below are some simple ways in which the problem can be solved to a great extent
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This is the least aggressive solution, and is often used for long-term treatment of constipation. It is a bulk-forming agent, meaning it absorbs water within the intestine to promote stool movement.
Pro: Can be taken safely for longer periods of time.
Con: Usually takes longer to start working for bad cases of constipation and can be unpleasant in powder form.
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You Can Control The Problem
You can make dietary changes that will help soften your stools. You can help relieve constipation by using a mixture of 1/2 cup of plain bran flakes, applesauce and prune-juice, made in a storage container and refrigerated. Every morning, consume 2 tablespoons of the mixture along with your regular breakfast. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables and go easy on binding foods such as rice and bananas. If you dont find relief from these dietary measures, try an over-the-counter stool softener or laxative. Check with your doctor for a recommendation of the safest product.
- You can make dietary changes that will help soften your stools.
- Check with your doctor for a recommendation of the safest product.
Drink Plenty Of Water
Staying hydrated is always a good idea, but even more so if you are grappling with any side effects from probiotics, particularly constipation. Dehydration, even in its mildest forms, is one of main causes of constipation. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help to soften stools and stimulate bowel movements.
If you are experiencing diarrhea as a side effect, you are even more susceptible to dehydration. Drinking water will replenish your fluids and prevent more severe issues related to dehydration, including fatigue, dizziness, and confusion.
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Drink Plenty Of Plain Water
This is probably the easiest and healthiest way of dealing with the problem of constipation. Drinking water helps in diluting the toxins in the system and they become easy to be removed from the body. Increase your water intake and you will see that problems of constipation and many other things get cured completely.
The Bottom Line: All Calcium Is Not Created Equally
Constipation is an unwelcome side-effect. But dont lose sight of why you started taking a calcium supplement in the first place bone health. More than likely you started taking calcium to stop bone loss, but did you ever think your calcium supplement could increase your bone density too?
Thats why at AlgaeCal we looked for a way to not only stop bone loss but build bone mineral density too. Plus, we wanted to end the digestion problems from rock-based calcium. Turns out, the answer was floating off pristine South American shorelines this whole time a bone-friendly, plant-based calcium. In fact, its the most mineral-concentrated plant on earth, containing all 73 trace minerals naturally found in your bones right now.
Whats more, the minerals are predigested by the plant making them more body-friendly!
Thats why you wont have any upset stomach or constipation from this rare marine algae. AlgaeCal Plus is the only calcium supplement that has been shown to increase your bone density naturally, without side-effects.
Even better, you can take it with the only mineral known to promote bone building and inhibit bone loss at the same time. This bone-building duo is unmatched by any other supplement or nutrient combination you can find.
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Blood Pressure And Allergy Meds
- Constipation can be a side effect of some common drugs used to treat high blood pressure, such as calcium channel blockers and diuretics.
- Diuretics, for instance, lower blood pressure by increasing urine output, which flushes water from your system. However, water is needed to keep stools soft and get them out of the body.
- Antihistamines used to treat allergy symptoms can be a problem too.
Inflammatory bowel disease includes two chronic conditionsCrohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both can cause cramping, weight loss, bloody stools, and other health problems.
Chronic diarrhea is a common symptom of both. However constipation can be a problem too.
In ulcerative colitis, constipation can be a sign of inflammation in the rectum and in Crohn’s disease it can be a sign of an obstruction in the small intestine. However if you have constipation alone, without other symptoms, it’s unlikely to be due to IBD.
- Constipation is common during pregnancy, but childbirth itself can be a problem, possibly due to sluggish abdominal muscles or perhaps the use of pain relievers or an anesthetic during the delivery.
- Also, “there may be some perineal soreness right after the delivery, so the fear of causing more discomfort may be an important factor in the constipation,” says Dr. Park.
- Although stretch injuries during childbirth can sometimes cause nerve damage that leads to constipation, this is less common.