Education

Getting the Most from Your RCE

Getting the Most from Your RCE

A note from Dr. B

"Most constipation products treat one symptom with one ingredient. RCE works on three distinct mechanisms at once, because your gut deserves a complete solution, not a one-trick pony."

Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, MD MSCI Gastroenterologist & Co-Founder, 38TERA®

Vegan Non-GMO Third-Party Tested
01 — Getting Started

Three ingredients.
Three mechanisms.

RCE combines three clinically studied ingredients, each targeting a different part of the constipation picture. Because constipation is rarely caused by just one thing.

Each serving is 2 capsules. Each capsule delivers a clinically studied combination of three actives, each working on a separate mechanism.

Mechanism 1 · Stool softening & osmotic relief

Magnesium Oxide

Draws water into the bowel to soften stool and stimulate the body's natural urge to go — no cramping, no stimulant laxatives. MgO is included in clinical guidelines from the American Gastroenterological Association (2023) and British Dietetic Association (2025) for the management of chronic constipation.

Mechanism 2 · Gut motility & upper digestive support

GinFort™

A patented ginger extract standardised to over 26% gingeroids and shogaols — the active polyphenols responsible for ginger's motility effects. Activates the gut's own movement signals. Eases the bloating and nausea that accompany constipation. In a 2022 double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 64% of GinFort™ participants reported significant improvement in upper abdominal symptoms — vs. 13% on placebo — with results observed from Day 14.

Mechanism 3 · Microbiome restoration

Plenibiotic™ (next-generation postbiotic)

A heat-killed Lactobacillus casei 327 strain isolated from fermented brown rice. Shifts the microbiome toward beneficial bacteria and supports the serotonin pathways that regular bowel function depends on. As a heat-killed postbiotic, it doesn't need to survive transit to work — and is shelf-stable by design.

Stimulant-free by design. RCE contains no senna, bisacodyl, or other stimulant laxatives. No cramping. No urgency. No dependency risk. Gentle, consistent support across three mechanisms.

What RCE supports

  • Bowel regularity*
  • Relief from bloating and nausea*
  • The gut environment for lasting regularity*
  • Digestive side effects associated with GLP-1 medication use*
  • Healthy digestion and digestive system function*
  • Beneficial intestinal flora*
  • Gut microbiome balance*
  • No stimulant laxatives. No cramping. No habit formation.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

02 — What to Expect

How RCE™ unfolds
over time

The three ingredients in RCE come online at different rates. Here is what the clinical evidence tells us about the timeline — and what you can realistically expect at each stage.

1 hour Ginfort® active · motility ↑
What you may feel

Ginger gets things moving — fast.

What's happening

Within the first hour, concentrated gingeroids in Ginfort® activate the gut's own motility signals — telling the digestive tract to get moving and helping with queasiness and fullness.

Overnight MgO osmosis active
What you may feel

Magnesium oxide pulls water in.

What's happening

While you sleep, magnesium oxide draws water into the bowel — softening stool and prompting your body's natural urge to go. Symptoms improve as regularity resumes, potentially as early as day one.

7 days Plenibiotic™ engages
What you may feel

All three mechanisms are now at work.

What's happening

By the end of the first week, Plenibiotic™ is actively contributing to more regular bowel movements. It supports how gut bacteria trigger serotonin, the signal your body uses to keep things moving. With all three mechanisms working together, regularity follows.

14 days The microbiome has shifted
What you may feel

The deeper change is locked in.

What's happening

By the two-week mark, beneficial SCFA-producing bacteria rise while less helpful strains decline, and SCFA output increases. Plenibiotic™'s benefits continue to compound while magnesium oxide and Ginfort® support ongoing regularity. Your gut feels predictable. Bloating, discomfort, nausea and fullness are less frequent.

Ongoing RCE + DMN
What you may feel

Complementary pieces for a healthier gut.

What's happening

Consistency builds the foundation. For deeper microbiome work, pair RCE with DMN. RCE's Plenibiotic™ supports motility signaling, while DMN's prebiotic and polyphenol blend feeds the bacteria themselves. Together, they support the gut at every level.

"Constipation is rarely caused by one thing. So I built RCE to work on three distinct mechanisms at once — because that's what the science supports, and that's what actually works."

— Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, MD, MSCI · Co-Founder, 38TERA®
03 — Dosing

Start at 2 capsules.
Find your dose.

Every gut is different. The goal is to find the dose that keeps you comfortable and regular — not too loose, not too sluggish.

Start

2 capsules at bedtime

Start with 2 capsules taken at bedtime. Take with a full glass of water.

Day 4

Increase by 1 capsule if needed

If you need more support after 4 days, increase by 1 capsule. Give each adjustment 4 days before evaluating again.

If loose

Reduce by 1 capsule

If stools become too loose, reduce by 1 capsule. Finding the right dose takes a little time — adjust without concern.

Maximum

Do not exceed 4 capsules per day

If you reach 4 capsules and symptoms have not improved, consult your healthcare provider.

Hydration matters. MgO works by drawing water into the bowel. Staying well hydrated supports the formula's effectiveness. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily — especially in the first two weeks.

Dr. B Clinical Note

If you are using 4 capsules daily for more than 7 days, consult your healthcare provider. RCE is non-habit-forming and suitable for ongoing daily use — but persistent symptoms at the maximum dose are worth discussing with your doctor.

04 — When to Take

Timing your RCE™
to match your goal

The time of day you take RCE can shift depending on what you're managing. Here are the approaches that work best.

Bedtime — Default Starting Point

Taking 2 capsules at bedtime with a large glass of water is the recommended starting point for most people. MgO works gradually overnight, and many people notice a bowel movement the following morning. This timing also separates the formula from meals, which suits the osmotic mechanism well.

Pre-Meal — GLP-1 Medication Users

If you're taking a GLP-1 medication, a pre-meal protocol is more effective than a single bedtime dose. Take 1 capsule 20–30 minutes before your largest meal, building up to 2–3 meals per day as tolerated. See the dedicated section below.

Travel and Situational Use

RCE works well for travel or disrupted gut rhythm. Start with 2 capsules the evening before travel or on the first day away. Stay well hydrated — especially on flights. Keep a sample pack in your travel bag.

Consistency is what counts most. Clinical benefits in the trials were observed after four weeks of daily use — one or two doses doesn't tell you much. Four weeks does.

05 — GLP-1 Medication Users

RCE™ and GLP-1
medications

GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide can cause constipation, nausea, and bloating. RCE was formulated to support all three.

Why GLP-1 medications affect digestion

GLP-1 receptor agonists slow gastric emptying — food moves more slowly from the stomach into the small intestine. This supports appetite and blood sugar management, but it also means constipation, nausea, and post-meal bloating are commonly reported. Slower transit can compound these digestive effects over time.

RCE is formulated to support three common digestive complaints associated with GLP-1 medication use: constipation (MgO osmotic softening), nausea and bloating (GinFort™ motility support), and gut microbiome disruption (Plenibiotic™).

"GLP-1 medications can be life-changing — but the digestive side effects are real. RCE was formulated to address not just the constipation, but the nausea and bloating too. Because you shouldn't have to sacrifice your gut comfort in order to achieve your health goals."

— Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, MD, MSCI · Co-Founder, 38TERA®

How to use RCE on GLP-1 medication

For GLP-1 users, a pre-meal approach allows GinFort™ to activate before food arrives in the stomach — supporting gastric emptying and reducing post-meal discomfort at the source.

Start

1 capsule before your largest meal

Take 1 capsule 20–30 minutes before your largest meal each day.

Build

Up to 2–3 meals per day as needed

Build to 1 capsule before 2–3 meals per day as tolerated. Do not exceed 4 capsules daily.

Next step

Once settled, add DMN™

Once your digestive symptoms are more stable, consider adding DMN™ for additional microbiome support. Start RCE first, then introduce DMN™ once you're more regular.

Dr. B Clinical Note

If you are on a GLP-1 medication and experiencing persistent digestive symptoms, please consult your prescribing provider. RCE is a dietary supplement, not a substitute for adjusting your medication protocol. Always disclose supplements to your healthcare provider.

06 — What to Know

A few things
before you begin

Practical information that helps you get the most from RCE — and know when to ask for help.

Hydration is non-negotiable

MgO draws water from your body into the bowel. If you're not adequately hydrated, the mechanism is less effective. Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily — more in warm weather or during exercise.

RCE is not a stimulant laxative

RCE works gently and builds over time. It does not create the urgency, cramping, or dependency risk of stimulant laxatives. Expect a gradual improvement in rhythm and comfort.

RCE pairs with DMN™

Start RCE first until your bowels are more regular. Then introduce DMN™ (Daily Microbiome Nutrition) for ongoing daily prebiotic support. Together, they support the foundations of a healthy gut.

Who should not use RCE

Do not use RCE if you have kidney disease, a known bowel obstruction, or are under 18. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking prescription medications, consult your healthcare provider before use. If you take other magnesium supplements, be mindful of your total daily magnesium intake.

When to stop and seek advice

Discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider if you experience rectal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or no bowel movement after 7 days of use at your maximum dose.

Built to work with your body, not override it

Why one ingredient
isn't enough

Most constipation products treat one symptom with one ingredient. RCE is a daily support system that works on three mechanisms — without stimulants, cramping, or dependency.

RCE™ Osmotic laxatives Stimulant laxatives Magnesium only
Active mechanisms Pathways targeted in the body 3 1 1 1
Gastroenterologist formulated
Dependency risk None None Yes None
Supports gut microbiome
Formulated for GLP-1 users
Common side effects None Bloating, gas Cramping, urgency None
07 — FAQs

Common questions,
answered

Is RCE™ a laxative?

Not in the way most people think of laxatives. RCE contains magnesium oxide, which is classified as an osmotic agent — it draws water into the bowel rather than stimulating muscle contractions the way stimulant laxatives do. There is no cramping, no urgency, and no dependency risk. GinFort™ and Plenibiotic™ support motility and the microbiome through separate, non-laxative mechanisms.

How long before I notice a difference?

MgO can produce a shift in stool consistency within the first few days. GinFort™ shows significant clinical results from Day 14. Plenibiotic™ supports microbiome change across weeks one and two and continues to build. Plan for four weeks of consistent daily use to experience the full effect — and know that some benefits continue to develop beyond that point.

Does RCE™ need to be taken with food?

For general use: no. Bedtime on an empty stomach is fine, and often the most effective approach. For GLP-1 medication users managing nausea and post-meal bloating: yes — take 1 capsule 20–30 minutes before meals so GinFort™ can activate before food arrives.

Can I take RCE™ and DMN™ together?

Yes — and we encourage it. Start RCE first to support bowel regularity. Once you're feeling more consistent, introduce DMN™ for ongoing daily prebiotic support. The two products work through complementary mechanisms and are designed to be used together.

Can I take RCE™ with my other supplements or medications?

RCE is generally compatible with most supplements and multivitamins. If you also take a magnesium supplement, be mindful of your total daily magnesium intake. Consult your healthcare provider if you are on prescription medications.

What if my stools become too loose?

Reduce by 1 capsule and allow 3–4 days to reassess. RCE's flexible dosing range is designed for this kind of calibration. Adjust down until you find comfortable, regular movement.

Can I take RCE™ every day indefinitely?

Yes. RCE is designed for daily ongoing use. It is non-habit-forming and stimulant-free. If you remain at 4 capsules daily for extended periods, it is worth a conversation with your healthcare provider.

Does RCE™ need refrigeration?

No. Plenibiotic™ is a heat-killed postbiotic — shelf-stable by design. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Is RCE™ safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

RCE has not been specifically studied during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider before use in this context.

I had a reaction — what should I do?

Your safety is our highest priority. Please reach out at support@38TERA.com or call 1.877.769.9965. Consistent with our refund policy, we will arrange a refund for the cost of the product minus shipping.

08 — Glossary

Key terms,
explained

Science-led communication means clarity over complexity. Here are the terms most relevant to your RCE™ journey.

Osmotic Agent
A compound that draws water into the intestines through osmotic pressure — increasing stool water content and volume to encourage bowel movement. MgO in RCE works this way. It is not a stimulant.
Magnesium Oxide (MgO)
A form of magnesium that draws water into the bowel to soften stool and support peristalsis. Included in clinical guidelines from the American Gastroenterological Association (2023) and British Dietetic Association (2025) for the management of chronic constipation.
Peristalsis
The rhythmic, wave-like contractions of the gut's smooth muscle that move food and waste through the digestive tract. GinFort™ supports the frequency and force of these contractions.
GinFort™
A patented ginger extract standardised to over 26% gingeroids and shogaols — the key active polyphenols in ginger — using Aquasome technology for enhanced absorption. Clinically studied for upper digestive discomfort, with significant results from Day 14.
Gingeroids / Shogaols
The active polyphenols in ginger responsible for its digestive effects. They support gastric contraction frequency, help inhibit bowel smooth muscle spasm, and act on gut serotonin receptors to ease nausea.
Dyspepsia
Indigestion — the clinical term for upper digestive discomfort, including post-meal fullness, upper abdominal bloating, early satiation, and nausea. GinFort™ was clinically studied against functional dyspepsia specifically.
Postbiotic
A preparation of non-viable (heat-killed) microorganisms that confers a health benefit. Plenibiotic™ is a postbiotic — it doesn't need to survive gut transit to exert its effects, making it inherently shelf-stable and consistent.
Plenibiotic™
The heat-killed Lactobacillus casei 327 postbiotic in RCE, isolated from fermented brown rice. Supports the gut microbiome toward SCFA-producing bacteria and supports colonic serotonin production.
Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
Compounds — acetate, propionate, butyrate — produced when gut bacteria ferment fiber. Important for gut barrier integrity and colonic cell function. Plenibiotic™ supports the bacteria responsible for producing these.
Gut Microbiome
The ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microbes in the digestive tract — essential for digestion, immunity, metabolism, and bowel regularity.
Serotonin (Gut)
Around 95% of the body's serotonin is produced in the gut, where it plays a key role in regulating gastrointestinal motility. Plenibiotic™ has been shown in animal studies to support colonic serotonin production.
GLP-1
Glucagon-like peptide-1 — a hormone released naturally after meals. GLP-1 receptor agonists (a class of medications) mimic this hormone and slow gastric emptying, which supports appetite and blood sugar management but may cause constipation, nausea, and bloating as associated digestive effects.
Gastric Emptying
The process by which the stomach contracts to move digested food into the small intestine. GinFort™ supports the speed and efficiency of this process, which is relevant for those experiencing post-meal fullness and nausea.

Key References

  1. Mori H et al. Magnesium oxide in constipation. Nutrients 2021;13(2):421.
  2. Kito Y et al. Efficacy of magnesium oxide for the treatment of functional constipation. J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2019;25(4):563–575.
  3. Chang L et al. AGA-ACG Clinical Practice Guideline: Pharmacological Management of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation. Gastroenterology 2023;164(7):1086–1106.
  4. Dimidi E et al. British Dietetic Association Guidelines for Dietary Management of Chronic Constipation in Adults. J Hum Nutr Diet 2025;38(5):e70133.
  5. Panda SK et al. Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study: GinFort in functional dyspepsia. J Diet Suppl 2022;19(2):226–237.
  6. Saito Y et al. Heat-killed Lactobacillus casei 327 on defecation in healthy volunteers. Biosci Microbiota Food Health 2018;37(3):59–65.
  7. Senda-Sugimoto Y et al. Lacticaseibacillus paracasei 327 on intestinal environment in healthy adults. Functional Foods Health & Disease 2024;14(3).
  8. Hara T et al. Heat-killed Lactobacillus casei 327 promotes colonic serotonin production in mice. J Functional Foods 2018;47:585–589.

This guide is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider about your specific health situation. Statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

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