Constipation is a common digestive issue in modern society, affecting almost one in five Europeans. It has an impact on quality of life, and ignoring the issue can also lead to more serious health problems. Fortunately there are simple solutions that can help relieve constipation issues. One of them is magnesium, which in certain forms is effective in speeding up digestion, and is recommended as a supplement in cases of constipation. It is even better when consumed in the form of a magnesium-rich mineral water, such as Donat, which contains a unique combination of magnesium and sulphates.
Highlights:
- Magnesium in certain forms is one of the safest, most effective and best-tolerated initial treatments for constipation, and is recommended by doctors.
- In certain forms it acts as a natural osmotic laxative that binds water in the gut, thus increasing the volume of stool and softening it, and also relaxes the intestinal muscles.
- The body can obtain magnesium through food, dietary supplements or magnesium-rich mineral water.
- Compared with other sources of magnesium, magnesium-rich mineral water is kinder on the body; it works faster, as it is already in a form that is easily absorbed, and can have a synergistic effect in the right combination with other minerals and water.
- With 1000 mg of magnesium per litre, Donat mineral water is one of the richest magnesium waters on the market, and can play a part in keeping digestion regular thanks to its unique combination of magnesium and sulphates. Its beneficial impact on constipation is clinically proven.
- Magnesium-rich mineral water acts fast in cases of constipation. How fast depends on how empty the stomach is, the temperature, the quantity, and the speed with which the water was drunk.
- The temperature, time, quantity and method of consumption are important in the optimal working of Donat, and so it is best to follow a drinking protocol in cases of constipation.
- If you are suffering from constipation, make use of Donat Moments, a free app whose handy tips and reminders will help you drink Donat the right way.
Unfortunately the majority of people still treat constipation as a minor inconvenience that will resolve itself, and neglect the severity of the situation. But if it does not get better, it can become chronic and lead to more serious problems. It is therefore important to identify it, and to find solutions that support the healthy functioning of the digestion.
Magnesium in certain forms is one of the safest, most effective and best-tolerated initial treatments for constipation, particularly when a simple change in life habits is not enough.
How does magnesium help with constipation?
In certain forms magnesium acts as a natural laxative, retaining water in the gut, relaxing the intestinal muscles and softening the stool. It affects the body and digestion as follows:
- Osmotic effect: Certain forms of magnesium, particularly those absorbed poorly in the digestive system, can increase the retention of water in the gut. This softens the stool and makes it easier to empty the bowels naturally.
- Stimulating intestinal peristalsis: Because extra water increases the volume of stool, the walls of the gut are stretched. This activates neural receptors, which tell the intestinal muscles to begin contracting and pushing the stool downwards.
- Relaxing the muscles: Magnesium naturally relaxes the smooth muscles of the intestinal wall. If the intestines are cramped or tense due to stress, magnesium calms them, and eases the passage of stool.
In certain forms magnesium helps to make the stool softer, and the bowels are able to evacuate it faster and more easily.
When should magnesium be taken in cases of constipation, and in which form?
If you feel constipated and bloated, first try the natural approach: drinking more water, increasing the intake of fibre, getting more exercise, and taking other simple measures. If this is not enough, try increasing your intake of magnesium, which is recommended in cases of constipation by doctors and nutrition experts. This can be obtained through nutritional supplements, and also through magnesium-rich mineral water such as Donat.
Magnesium can be obtained in non-prescription nutritional supplements, and appears in various forms. This affects the absorption of the magnesium, the digestive tolerance and other specific properties, and therefore different forms are recommended according to the objectives. Magnesium oxide, magnesium citrate and magnesium sulphate are most commonly used for treating constipation.
- Magnesium oxide and hydroxide is one of the most common forms of magnesium laxative, and also one of the most researched. Because it is poorly absorbed, it has a strong osmotic action in the colon. It is best suited to the fast relief of acute constipation.
- Magnesium citrate is one of the most popular and accessible choices in nutritional supplements, often in the form of sachets for preparing drinks or for using directly. It is highly soluble in water, is well-absorbed by the body, and has a mild laxative effect.
- Magnesium sulphate (Epsom salts) has long been seen as an excellent natural remedy for constipation, known for its laxative effect. It comes in the form of white crystals similar to salt (hence the name), and when consumed the results are evident within a few hours. Magnesium sulphate is also an important component of mineral water
Did you know? Magnesium sulphate is the main active ingredient in Donat, and is also the secret behind its gentle action on the digestion and in relieving constipation.
One risk with nutritional supplements is taking too much. Although excess magnesium is eliminated in the urine, an excessive dose can cause mild symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, muscle weakness, and heart arrhythmia. Follow the recommended daily intake of magnesium, which is 300 to 375 mg for an adult. Before taking nutritional supplements containing magnesium, it is best to consult your doctor, who will advise you on the right quantities for you.
Magnesium-rich mineral water is effective in relieving constipation issues
Natural mineral water with a high magnesium content is particularly effective in relieving constipation, in that it has three key advantages over other sources of magnesium:
- Simultaneous intake of magnesium and water. Because magnesium in certain forms acts by binding water in the gut, the body needs to take on extra fluids. Failing to drink enough water when taking magnesium tablets means that water is drawn into the gut from the rest of the body, potentially resulting in dehydration. Drinking mineral water gives the body both at the same time, minerals and water together.
- Synergy with sulphates. Natural mineral waters like Donat also contain large quantities of sulphates alongside the magnesium. This also acts as an osmotic laxative, and has a significantly stronger effect in combination with magnesium.
- Better and faster absorption. The magnesium and other minerals are already dissolved in the mineral water, in their natural ionic forms. The body finds them easier to identify and faster to digest, while other forms first need to be broken down in the stomach, which can slow the effect or cause stomach cramps.
The effect of magnesium-rich mineral water in helping regulate digestion is linked to the specific mineral composition, with the natural combination of magnesium and other mineral compounds playing an important role.
Not all mineral waters are the same. Mineral waters with a high content of magnesium and sulphates are the best option in cases of constipation. With approximately 1000 mg of magnesium per litre, Donat is one of the most magnesium-rich waters on the market, and its combination of sulphates and other vital minerals makes it a unique beverage with a wide range of positive effects on the digestion and general wellbeing.
With the highest magnesium content in Europe, Donat is clinically proven in treating constipation
Donat’s positive effect on the digestive system was confirmed by a 2015 clinical study conducted by an independent research institute based in Berlin. The participants who consumed 500 ml of Donat every day for six weeks saw their digestion speed up significantly. The Donat drinkers had spontaneous bowel movements three times as often, while the consistency of their stools improved by more than 50% compared with the control group. More than 94% of the participants and 97% of the doctors in the study confirmed Donat to be effective and well-tolerated, with a significant boost in general wellbeing. The study also confirmed that drinking it is safe, does not cause dependency in the gut, and does not disrupt the body’s electrolyte balance, as it works mechanically (osmotically).
Donat is a mild natural laxative that has no side effects and does not cause dependency when used in moderation. It can be taken for longer periods without damaging the gut, and without the risk of the body getting too used to it.
How quickly after drinking Donat should I feel the effects?
Natural mineral waters containing magnesium and sulphates like Donat take effect quickly in general, although the speed of action depends greatly on the individual, the way in which it is drunk, the temperature and quantity of water, and how full the stomach is.
- The effect is most intensive when it is drunk on an empty stomach. The water will pass most quickly through the stomach and into the gut when drunk first thing in the morning, as soon as you wake.
- The temperature of the water affects the emptying of the stomach. For quick emptying, the water should be warm or lukewarm (around 30° to 37°C). Cold water slows the emptying of the stomach.
- For quick effect, the water needs to be drunk quickly. This creates increased pressure in the stomach, which triggers the gastrocolic reflex, which sparks the gut into movement. Slow drinking by contrast ensures that the minerals remain longer in the gut.
- Quantity is also important. A dose of 200 to 300 ml of Donat in the morning is recommended for immediate relief.
Donat drinking protocol for maximum effect in cases of constipation
For magnesium-rich mineral water to have the greatest possible effect on the digestion, it needs to be drunk the right way. The following mineral water drinking protocol is recommended for constipation:
Morning dose (key to waking up the gut)
- Quantity: 200 to 300 ml
- Temperature: The water should be lukewarm (around 30° to 37°C), and can be warmed up gently.
- Time: It is best drunk on an empty stomach, as soon as you get up.
- Method: Drink fast, to stimulate intestinal peristalsis.
Evening dose (overnight support)
- Quantity: 200 ml
- Temperature: The water should be room temperature.
- Time: It is best taken in the evening, immediately before having dinner or going to bed.
- Method: The evening dose should also be drunk fast.
It is best to drink Donat for at least five consecutive days according to this protocol, then to take a two-day break if necessary.
Useful advice: If you are bothered by bubbles (carbon dioxide), stir the water well in your glass before drinking so that the excess gas can escape. This will prevent any bloating.
Get a digital assistant to track your magnesium intake in cases of constipation
Make use of the free Donat Moments app to make it easier to get into the habit of drinking Donat. With its reminders and handy tips, it will guide you in the right way to drink Donat, according to your needs and the most common digestive issues, including constipation.
Pridružite se več kot 75.000 uporabnikom, ki s pomočjo aplikacije Donat Moments skrbijo tudi za pravilen vnos magnezija!
Free programme for alleviating constipation issues
Working with medical experts, we have created a free guide that will help you fix your digestion over six days, with the help of meal plans, exercises, and advice on how to drink Donat.
FAQs
Does magnesium help with constipation?
Yes. Magnesium in certain forms is one of the safest, most effective and best-tolerated initial treatments for constipation.
How does magnesium work in cases of constipation?
Magnesium in certain forms binds water in the gut, thus increasing the volume of the stool and softening it, while also relaxing the muscles and stimulating intestinal peristalsis.
When should magnesium be taken for constipation?
If you feel constipated, and simple lifestyle changes (drinking more water, exercising, eating more fibre, etc.) do not bring any relief, you can try supplementing with magnesium.
What should I be mindful of when taking magnesium for constipation?
Excessive quantities of magnesium can be harmful, so it is important to follow the recommended daily intake, and to pay attention to any changes in your bowel movements. The aim is to relieve the constipation, not to cause diarrhoea. If the latter happens, reduce your intake of magnesium. Before taking nutritional supplements containing magnesium, it is best to consult your doctor, who will advise you on the right quantities for you.
How does Donat mineral water help with constipation?
Donat is a natural osmotic laxative that is clinically proven to relieve constipation without causing dependence or side effects. The only side effect seen in some people is diarrhoea, when excessive amounts are taken.
Can drinking magnesium-rich mineral water cause dependency?
No. Mineral water works mechanically (taking water and minerals into the gut), and therefore does not cause a lazy gut or dependency.
Is it important how and when I take Donat for constipation?
Yes, the way in which it is drunk affects how Donat acts on the digestion, and it therefore needs to be tailored to constipation relief for maximum effectiveness.
What is the right way to drink Donat in cases of constipation?
When suffering from constipation, drink 200 to 300 ml of Donat in the morning on an empty stomach, and another 200 ml before dinner. In both instances drink it as quickly as possible, at room temperature.
References:
Bothe G, Coh A, Auinger A. Efficacy and safety of a natural mineral water rich in magnesium and sulphate for bowel function: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Eur J Nutr. 2017 Mar;56(2):491-499. doi: 10.1007/s00394-015-1094-8. Epub 2015 Nov 18. PMID: 26582579; PMCID: PMC5334415. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26582579/
Zhang L, Du Z, Li Z, Yu F, Li L. Association of dietary magnesium intake with chronic constipation among US adults: Evidence from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Food Sci Nutr. 2021 Sep 29;9(12):6634-6641. doi: 10.1002/fsn3.2611. PMID: 34925793; PMCID: PMC8645769. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8645769/
Youn JW, Joo H, Kim S, Oh J, Yoo H, Ko JS, Moon JS, Hahn JW, Yon DK. Global Prevalence of Functional Constipation Across All Age Groups According to Rome II-IV Criteria, 1999-2025: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Clin Transl Gastroenterol. 2026 Jun 1;17(6):e01029. doi: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000001029. PMID: 41919745. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41919745/
FAQs about Donat mineral water. Rogaška Medical Centre https://rogaska-medical.com/si/pogosta-vprasanja/pogosta-vprasanja-donat-mg
Nancy LeBrun, medically reviewed by Dr Brunilda Nazario. Magnesium for Constipation: How to Use It So It Works. WebMD. 22 October 2024. https://www.webmd.com/diet/magnesium-constipation-how-use-it
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