There is a lot of truth in this summary, but it is also simplistic. There is no doubt that Native Americans suffered enormously at the hands of white Americans, but federal Indian policy was shaped as much by paternalism, however misguided, as by white greed.
Quick Answer. Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that generally produces a bowel movement within 30 minutes to three hours, according to WebMD. While patients sometimes use it for relief of constipation, whenever possible they should choose milder laxatives. Some surgical procedures require preparation using magnesium citrate with other laxatives.
If you are taking magnesium citrate, you can mix the liquid with water or juice. A full dose of magnesium citrate will result in a bowel movement within a half-hour to three hours, though smaller doses may take longer to produce a bowel movement. You can take magnesium citrate with food, but it may take longer for the drug to have an effect. Be sure to drink two full glasses of water or some other liquid after taking magnesium citrate to replace some of the water your body will lose. Side Effects. Although magnesium citrate is safe for most people to use, it can cause some side effects. For example, you may develop diarrhea after taking magnesium citrate.