Magnesium and potassium, along with sodium and calcium, are examples of electrolytes that are present in the blood. Electrolytes help trigger and regulate electrical impulses in the heart and low levels of magnesium and potassium can lead to an electrolyte imbalance, which can contribute to arrhythmia.
Passing hard stools is usually as a result of constipation or the infrequent movement of the bowels. Most healthy people have at least three bowel movements per week, according to MedlinePlus. If you are unable to have a bowel movement or are having difficulty passing stool, contact your doctor.
What Causes Small, Hard, or Pellet-Like Stool? The most common culprit is a lack of dietary fiber or fluids. The average adult in the U.S. eats about 15 grams of fiber a day, far less than the recommended amounts for adults over 50 (25 grams per day for women and 38 grams per day for men).