Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (or IBS) is a very common disorder marked by abdominal pain and cramps, combined with alternating diarrhea and constipation.

There is no known cause, but it seems to affect women more frequently than men. It usually appears during the patient's late teens or early twenties, and although causing much pain and discomfort, does not seem to lead to other diseases.

Since Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a syndrome – that is, a collection of symptoms that characterize a disease, it affects different people in different ways. So a treatment that works for Sam may not work for Joe. So keep in mind that you may have to try many different approaches to find relief from IBS.

Keeping a diet diary is a good idea to see if you can identify foods that are more likely to cause symptoms. Anything that is difficult to digest or causes excess gas should be avoided.

Stress seems to be the main trigger in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Learning to deal with stress can be one of the biggest aids you will find. Relaxation techniques, yoga, and exercise can reduce stress levels. Exercise is also good for promoting regular bowel movements.

Natural treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Peppermint oil can be very effective in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome. It reduces abdominal pain and soothes other IBS symptoms. It has to be taken in the form of enteric-coated capsules to ensure that it is released in the intestine and not the stomach. Take one or two capsules three times a day between meals.

Fennel seed is useful in treating symptoms of IBS. It can be taken as a tea by gently crushing the seeds and adding hot water, or as a condiment in your cooking to aid in digestion.

Psyllium is a type of dietary fiber that has helped some sufferers of IBS. Drink lots of water (at least eight glasses a day) when taking psyllium, but if you find that it makes your symptoms worse, stop using it immediately. Take 2 tablespoons in a glass of juice or water once a day.

Magnesium deficiency can cause many abdominal complaints, and magnesium is valuable in treating IBS. Although found naturally in food, the bodies absorption of magnesium can be hindered through large consumption of calcium and is also associated with the use of alcohol and oral contraceptives.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a problem that can affect all aspects of the sufferer's life. Be assured that the symptoms can be brought under control. Be patient and try a variety of approaches to see what best aids you to relief.