Magnesium is a gentler solution

Chronic constipation has been a problem for me for as long as I can remember. I have tried extra fiber, but it makes me feel bloated and causes gas. I drink lots of water, but that makes me urinate a lot. Is there a laxative I can take regularly that would be safe?

Doctors discourage people from using strong laxatives on a daily basis because the digestive tract gives up and becomes lazy. This results in dependency on chemical stimulation and a vicious cycle of constipation.

Instead, you might want to try magnesium. Some people report that 300 to 500 milligrams daily can be helpful. Others tell us that psyllium fiber can be effective, though it, too, might cause gas. Stool softeners such as docusate can help.



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Will taking turmeric for arthritis affect the warfarin I must take daily to prevent blood clots?

Warfarin (Coumadin) can interact with many other medications, foods and herbs. One reader experienced a potentially dangerous interaction between turmeric and warfarin. The INR (a measure of blood clotting ability) was very elevated, indicating a risk of hemorrhage. Turmeric could be hazardous for you.



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Do blueberries have any bad side effects for cardiac patients?

Blueberries are rich in fiber and antioxidants. Rats fed a diet rich in blueberries had better blood vessel function, so that bodes well for heart patients (Journal of Medicinal Food, Spring 2005).

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Joe Graedon, a pharmacologist, and Teresa Graedon, an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition, can be reached at http://www.peoplespharmacy.com or care of this newspaper.