By: Richard Bleuze
Suffering from IBS and looking for the irritable bowel syndrome remedy options that can help ease symptoms can be a long and drawn out task
Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder. It is a combination of a number of symptoms like abdominal pain and discomfort, flatulence or bloating and alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation. The increase in frequency and number of intestinal contractions disturb bowel movement patterns, which is the most likely cause of the alterations in bowel pattern. A variety of interventions are available for irritable bowel treatment, alleviating symptoms and improving overall level of functioning.
The first thing that one should do is to maintain a diary to record the moments you feel you are stressed, foods that you may have an intolerance or allergy to, note the times when you feel relaxed, your food and drinking habits and all the minute things that directly or indirectly affect you.
This will allow you to better identify the trigger foods or situations that make IBS symptoms worse.
Secondly, dietary changes are important when dealing with alterations in bowel habits. The diet should consist of foods that are rich in fiber since fiber will help to alleviate the abnormal pattern that are present at that time. The main result being sought is to lessen contractions and gut motility to reduce diarrhea and increase contractions and lubrication for constipation.
Soluble fiber from supplements and whole foods are necessary to aid in the process of digestion and to move matter through the intestine without straining or spasms. The aim of the additional fiber is to soothe and relax the muscles that are responsible for the contractions to reduce pain experiences.
Rice, pasta, potatoes and oatmeal are good food sources of soluble fiber. Insoluble fiber like green leafy vegetables and fruits are beneficial for constipation relief. However, spasms and contractions are usually more likely with insoluble fiber, which may add to the constipation episodes.
Both soluble and insoluble fiber must be incorporated in a healthy diet. Some food sources like wheat, apples and cereals have insoluble fiber covering a soluble fiber content which is why most fruits and vegetables are better eaten with the skin on for a mix of both fiber types.
Peppermint tea, chamomile and anise are also good sources that can be incorporated in an irritable bowel syndrome diet to aid digestion and help with bowel functionality.
Thirdly, exercise, relax, maybe even meditate or learn how to breathe deeply. Do anything to release tension and stress. Think and cherish moments of your life that make you feel good and liven up the spirit.
It is not clear why IBS is linked with stress and anxiety, but studies have found that there is a connection.
Fourthly, eat a healthy meal and avoid junk food, aerated drinks, citrus fruits, vegetables like cauliflower, beans, red and black pepper and other items that can worsen the irritable bowel syndrome. Also, many dairy products can trigger IBS bouts and if so they should be avoided.
Fifthly, have small proportions at meal times. Heavy meals can cause indigestion and increase symptoms. Try to have water while having your meals. Also, eat slowly, chewing each mouth of food thoroughly. This will reduce the amount of air taken in while eating and reduce gassiness.
Sixthly, try a hot bath. Hot baths can help relive stomach cramping. .
Besides, keeping a watch over what you eat and drink you may use laxatives, anti-diarrheas, anti-depressants and other medications such as BOWTROL COLON CLEANSER !
