Relief for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is common nowadays and almost 20% of the US adult population is affected with this condition. A person experiencing irritable bowel syndrome feels abdominal cramps, too much gas, and bloating. There is also noticeable loss of appetite and changed bowel habits with the prominent presence of mucus in the stool. In some cases, diarrhea occurs while others feel the exact opposite – constipation.

There are several reasons for IBS – unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, lack of fluid intake, and stress are the major culprits. Oftentimes, IBS gets worse after every meal and this can even occur in some people who actually have good digestive function. What just happens is that their intestines react to foods sensitively. Stress worsens IBS in other patients as well.

To fix irritable bowel syndrome, you should kick out your old diet habits and start having a positive and healthy lifestyle. This is only difficult in the beginning since you have to change these bad habits, but you will eventually feel the good benefits over time. Here are some things you can do at home to relieve IBS:

Fiber

Include plenty of fiber in your diet to avoid constipation. However, food rich in fiber can cause cramps in the abdomen and accumulation of gas as well. Thus, you need to incorporate fiber in your diet gradually by eating fruits, whole grains, beans, and other leafy vegetables. Fiber supplements are good options to lessen gas and bloated feeling as well.

Eat on time

It is better to have a regular eating schedule so your body can properly facilitate healthy bowel movements. Avoid skipping meals so you will not upset your digestive system. If you feel constipated, eat large amount of foods that are fiber-rich. In case of diarrhea, eat a small amount at regular intervals to calm the symptoms.

The following are the foods you should avoid:

• Caffeine from coffee and tea
• Chocolate
• Alcohol
• Fatty foods
• Sorbitol, fructose, and other sweeteners

Too much gas can be caused by vegetables, like broccoli, beans, cabbage, and cauliflower. Avoid these and you will lessen the gas in your stomach. Limit the intake of lactose as well since this can upset the stomach. Drink lots of water and stay away from carbonated drinks. Take something that has probiotics in it to promote good bacteria in the digestive system. Have a healthy exercise regimen to fight off stress and prevent depression.

There are medicines that also give relief to constipation, diarrhea, and depression. These medicines help control bowel spasms, which can be quite painful. Herbs like ginger, peppermint, and cinnamon also calm IBS.

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