Calorie Count: Understanding Miralax's Laxative Effects

MiraLAX is a brand-name, over-the-counter powder that is used to treat constipation. It contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) and belongs to the osmotic laxatives drug class. It is clinically proven to relieve occasional constipation and soften stool without causing harsh side effects. Interestingly, there are absolutely zero calories in 1 capful (17 g) of MiraLAX.

Miralax has 0 calories per serving

Miralax is a brand-name, over-the-counter powder that is used to treat constipation. It is clinically proven to relieve occasional constipation and soften stool without causing harsh side effects such as sudden urgency, cramping, bloating, and gas. It is also sometimes used for colonoscopy bowel preparation.

Miralax is an osmotic laxative that works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and stimulating the colon to contract. This helps to ease bowel movements. It is typically used for short-term treatment, but in some cases, it can be used long-term to treat chronic constipation.

The active ingredient in Miralax is polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). It comes in bottles or single-serve packets and is mixed with 4 to 8 ounces of water, juice, or other liquids. The usual adult dose for constipation is 17 grams, taken once daily.

In addition to having no calories, Miralax also contains no fat, carbs, or protein. This makes it a unique product as most foods and supplements contain at least some calories and nutrients. It is important to note that while Miralax itself has no calories, if it is mixed with juice or other sweetened beverages, the beverage may contribute calories to the overall intake.

It's an osmotic laxative that increases intestinal water

MiraLAX is a laxative that contains zero calories per 17-gram capful serving. It is a non-stimulant, osmotic laxative that works with the water in your body to provide gentle and effective relief from constipation.

Osmotic laxatives like MiraLAX attract water and retain it in the colon, hydrating and softening stools to unblock the system without causing harsh side effects. They increase the amount of fluid in the intestines, making stools easier to pass. The term "osmotic" refers to the movement of fluid through a membrane to equalise the concentration on both sides.

In the case of constipation, the concentration of water in the colon wall and the inside of the colon (lumen) is balanced but insufficient to compensate for hard, dry stools. Osmotic laxatives alter this balance by introducing substances like salts, sugars, and other organic compounds that promote the movement of water into the lumen. This process softens the stools, making them easier to pass.

MiraLAX, with its active ingredient polyethylene glycol, is clinically proven to relieve constipation without causing side effects such as sudden urgency, cramping, bloating, or gas. It dissolves completely in water or any beverage of choice, with no added taste or grit. It is recommended to use it once a day, mixing one capful (17 grams) with 4 to 8 ounces of water or any other beverage.

It's a powder that dissolves in water or other beverages

MiraLAX is a powder laxative that can be dissolved in water or other beverages of your choice. It is clinically proven to relieve constipation and soften stool without causing harsh side effects such as sudden urgency, cramping, bloating and gas. It is flavourless and dissolves completely, with no added taste or grit. It can be mixed with hot or cold beverages, including water, juice, soda, coffee, or tea.

The powder comes with a measuring cap that is marked to indicate the correct dose of 17 grams. This dose is then stirred and dissolved in 4 to 8 ounces of the chosen beverage. It should be consumed once a day and for no more than 7 days without consulting a doctor. It is important to note that this product is not suitable for children under 16 years of age without the advice of a doctor.

MiraLAX is an effective treatment for constipation as it increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract, hydrating and softening the stool, and naturally stimulating bowel movements. It typically causes a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days of use.

It is important to note that this medication may have side effects, including bloating, gas, and an upset stomach. More serious side effects include severe or bloody diarrhoea, and severe and worsening stomach pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop taking the medication and consult a doctor.

MiraLAX contains zero calories per serving.

It has no taste and is safe for children

MiraLAX is a flavourless powder that is safe for children and adults. It is clinically proven to relieve constipation without causing harsh side effects such as sudden urgency, cramping, bloating, and gas. The powder dissolves completely in water or any hot or cold beverage of your choice with no added taste or grit. It works with the water in your body to hydrate, soften, and ease the unblocking of your system naturally.

MiraLAX is FDA-approved to treat constipation and is typically used for short-term treatment. However, in some cases, it’s used long-term to treat chronic (long-lasting) constipation. It is also sometimes used for colonoscopy bowel preparation. It is important to note that MiraLAX is intended for the short-term treatment of constipation and should not be used for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.

MiraLAX is safe for children and can be used to treat constipation in younger children, including infants younger than 2 years of age. However, it is important to consult a doctor before giving MiraLAX to a child, as the dosage may vary depending on their age and weight. The usual paediatric dose for constipation in children over 6 months of age is 0.5 to 1.5 g/kg daily, with a maximum dose of 17 g/day.

MiraLAX has no calories, fat, carbs, or protein. This makes it a great option for those looking for a laxative that won't impact their dietary intake. The active ingredient in MiraLAX is polyethylene glycol 3350, which increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract to stimulate bowel movements.

It's not recommended for those with kidney disease

Miralax is a laxative powder that provides effective and predictable constipation relief. It is clinically proven to relieve occasional constipation and soften stool without causing harsh side effects such as sudden urgency, cramping, bloating, and gas. There are zero calories in 1 capful (17 g) of Miralax.

Although Miralax is a safe option for those with Stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD), it is not recommended for those with kidney disease, in general, except under the advice and supervision of a doctor. This is because Miralax is composed of polyethylene glycol-3350, which is made up of individual units of ethylene glycol. Ethylene glycol is a well-known cause of oxalate nephropathy, which can lead to acute kidney injury. Polyethylene glycol, once inside the body, is capable of causing acute kidney injury from oxalate nephropathy.

The warning against the use of Miralax for those with kidney disease is due to the risk of electrolyte and fluid imbalance. The kidneys regulate electrolytes and fluids in the body, and Miralax, being an osmotic laxative, can disrupt both, which can be particularly dangerous for individuals with impaired kidneys.

It is important to note that Miralax should not be used by persons with kidney transplants as it may cause kidney damage and failure. If you have kidney disease or a kidney transplant, consult your doctor before using Miralax. They will be able to advise you on whether it is safe for you to use and monitor for any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.

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