Because irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that almost defies diagnosis due to the unusually wide range of symptoms and treatments, the most common sense way of dealing with it is with laxatives. A laxative can be easily defined as a medication that increases bowel function. Laxatives can be broken down into four major categories: fiber, osmotic laxatives, stimulant laxatives and emollients. Since there is no known cure for IBS and treatment for the disease is aimed solely at treating symptoms, many sufferers have to combine two or more forms of treatment.

A steep increase in dietary fiber in a patient’s diet is the most common prescription for dealing with IBS-C. As stated above, however, this doesn’t work for everyone. For those who do experience relief with the use of fiber, studies have shown that fiber helps IBS-C sufferers by helping to ease stool passage and increasing overall satisfaction with bowel movements, but does not help in the ease of pain.

Fiber is not without it’s side effects, either. Increases of flatulence, distension and bloating can lead to a low number of suffers agreeing to fiber treatment, especially during the first few weeks when side effects are at their highest. Studies of IBS patients have shown that the minimum increase in a patients diet for effective use is 12 grams of fiber per day.

As treatment continues, the amount of fiber prescribed increases to 20 or even 25 grams per day over several weeks. To start with, foods rich in dietary fiber should be increased. For patients that do not respond to natural increases in fiber, a second option is the introduction of over the counter fiber supplements into the diet is recommended. If your doctor has decided that an increase in fiber isn’t right for you, other options such as osmotic laxatives and then later stimulant laxatives can be tried. Stimulant laxatives are seen as a last resort because they have the potential for abuse.

Osmotic laxatives are defined as substances that cause an influx of water into the small intestine and colon, helping to clean you out. When used, they begin working in 1-2 days. The most commonly prescribed osmotics are magnesium and phosphate. When taken, the laxatives are only partially absorbed by the small intestine, the leftovers allow water to be pushed into the area and cleansing takes place. But these are not without side effects. Bloating, cramping and flatulence are common with the use of osmotics.

As is the case with every laxative, the concern that the user isn’t absorbing nutrients and is just passing them is valid. When used in excess, osmotics can cause severe diarrhoea and dehydration. Those patients that suffer from kidney or heart disease can suffer even more extreme side effects, such as water volume overload and electrolyte disorders.

Stimulant laxatives should be used only as a last resort. They directly stimulate the nerves in the large intestine and hamper absorption of water. They take effect within hours. The most well known stimulant laxative is castor oil, which can cause severe cramps and diarrhoea.

Emollients can be broken down into two categories, docusates and mineral oil. Docusates allow extra water to enter the stool, thereby making is softer. Mineral oil coats the stool, therefore not allowing water to leave it. Both are effective ways to help IBS-C suffers who are helped by laxatives.

By: Susan Reynolds -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Susan Reynolds has an interest in IBS. For further information on IBS please visit IBS or natural-irritable-bowel-syndrome-relief.com/blog/2006/10/10/ibs-medication-vs-your-health/"> IBS Symptoms

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Chronic constipation is said to be the first step in the development of colon cancer and other associated digestive disorders. Learn how to control bowel problems using natural treatment.

Constipation is one of the most common digestive disorders - furthermore, constipation is the most troublesome in terms of bowel control. Diarrhea is another unpleasant disorder; we all suffer from this type of delays and emergencies, but few of us know that they can be solved with the help of alternative medicine treatments. Natural herbs are there for you, waiting to be used and appreciated.

Dealing with these digestive disorders can be tricky, as even the "simple" constipation can be easily transformed into a chronic problem, in case harmful laxatives are used. But with the help of the natural remedies that are recommended by the alternative medicine, you have higher chances of being healthy again. It is important for you to know that if you use laxatives constantly, you will loose natural bowel movements and therefore, you might complicate your problem even more. On the other hand, you should be aware of the drugs that can cause constipation, diarrhea or other similar troubles. And this is mostly the case of the drugs for high blood pressure, depression, anemia or pain relief. The next smart move is to become informed about the natural herbs that have the power to prevent digestive disorders and to treat some of them.

One of the popular natural herbs that are used for relieving digestive disorders is dandelion, which acts like a mild laxative, having beneficial effects on the liver, as well. Moreover, your liver and general health might witness positive effects, due to the fact that dandelion contains many vitamins and minerals. Aloe ferox is another herb that is known from ancient times, due to its benefits upon troubled digestion. In addition, this medicinal herb is famous for its positive effects in case of inflammatory bowel diseases and inflammatory digestive disorders. Fennel seed is also famous for its capacity of restoring the natural balance of the digestive system, relieving spasm of the gastrointestinal tract and even the unpleasant feeling of fullness.

You can take full advantage of the natural herbs that are promoted by alternative medicine, as they have no side effects - as opposed to the traditional drugs. Secondly, these natural remedies present no risks of dependency and they purify the digestive system in a gentle manner, without causing unpleasant side effects. Thirdly, your liver will not be affected in any negative way.

Even if you suffer from the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you may benefit from the reliable and effective alternative medicine treatments. Magnesium is said to be the solution for such problems, as it activates the metabolic functions and it balances the digestion. Peppermint oil is another natural remedy of great efficiency for IBS - the main role of peppermint is to reduce the abdominal pain and to help eliminating intestinal gas. Furthermore, you should analyze your diet properly and determine the possible food intolerances. Mind-body therapy is also successful in identifying the causes of IBS and reducing its symptoms. Psychotherapy, hypnosis, biofeedback and relaxation techniques can help you treating IBS in an effective way.

There are other simple methods to improve your digestion: the consumption of more liquids, eating slower, chewing better and taking supplements for restoring the natural digestion. All you have to do now is choose the best natural solution for your digestive problem from this wide range of natural remedies.

Bowel control
Bowel control info.

By Michael Rad
Published: 11/30/2006

xxx

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common chronic condition where there is no specific cause and no cure. In the USA, Irritable Bowel Syndrome accounts for over 20% of the population and considered among the top ten common chronic medical conditions.

In general to gain control of the symptoms of Irritable Bowel syndrome, two important factors must be addressed. Stress is a very important trigger and learning how to control stress will help in your control. Food is also an important trigger and staying on the diet that is right for you will be very helpful.

The problem, however, is that Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a highly individualised syndrome and a diet that works extremely well for me sufferer may be ineffective or even worsen symptoms for others. In addition due to the nature of IBS, the correct IBS diet can change with time.

There are certain foods that are considered G.I. stimulants or irritants. These foods when consumed cause abnormally strong gastro-colic reflex. This is a normal contraction of the smooth muscles of the large gut in response to food ingestion.

We know that certain categories of food will stimulate strong gastro-colic reflex. Foods that are high in fats, insoluble fibre, caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks cause strong contractions of the large gut and can cause diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain and bloating. In Irritable Bowel Syndrome the gut is oversensitive and the reaction is exaggerated.

Some IBS sufferers are convinced that only certain foods trigger their IBS symptoms but the facts remains that any food in that particular category can trigger symptoms. When starting a diet to control Irritable bowel Syndrome, consider the five categories as your starting point then experiment of various specific foods. In addition a large meal can be a trigger for strong gastro-colic response.

In time you will learn which groups of food to consume and how much you can eat without any problems. The correct way to approach Irritable Bowel Syndrome is to develop a day to day strategy while at the same time work on long term control. For the day to day strategy to be effective, a sensible approach to a diet that works best for you is very important.

Whatever strategy you adopt make sure IBS diet is an important aspect. Remember also that if your symptoms go out of control, prescription medication is an invaluable short term help to ease the burden of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

By: Dr Phil Hariram

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

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One in five Northern Americans has irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which makes it one of the most common disorders diagnosed today. Irritable bowel syndrome usually hits the person around age 20 and is more common among women than in men.

Irritable bowel syndrome is actually a disease, although doctors consider it a functional disorder. However, even though the syndrome can cause considerable pain and discomfort, it does not actually damage the digestive system.

Irritable bowel syndrome disturbs the normal functions of the colon, particularly how the muscles in the intestines work, causing a lot of embarrassment and pain. Irritable bowel syndrome does not cause internal bleeding, but may worsen a medical condition if you already have one.

No one really knows why certain people develop IBS. Researchers believe that people with Irritable bowel syndrome have sensitive colons that react to aggravating foods and certain emotional conditions, most commonly, to stress, conflict, or upsets. Antidepressants are often used to relieve stress-related irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Some doctors link colon sensitivity to weak immune systems.

No cure has been found yet for irritable bowel syndrome. Your doctor might prescribe fiber supplements or occasional laxatives to ease constipation, as well as medicines to help with diarrhea, or drugs that calm down abdominal pain, but careful eating is the most important step in reducing irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Many irritable bowel syndrome sufferers can successfully control their symptoms with simple diet changes. Quite often, when you increase your fiber intake, Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms are relieved.

Eating more fiber can be easier than you think. Whole grain breads and cereals, fruits, and vegetables are both delicious and rich in healthy fiber. Fiber-rich diet results in regular bowel movements and better colon cleansing. However, fiber will make you feel worse if you have pain or diarrhea because high-fiber diets may cause some discomfort at first, but do not panic. You simply need a few days to adjust to the new diet. Positive changes take time if your colon is more irritated than normally.

When starting fiber-rich diet, stick to plain foods like white rice, plain unflavored oatmeal, rice cereal, pasta, peeled potatoes. Incorporate insoluble fibers carefully by blending fresh fruit with soy or rice milk making delicious and nutritious cocktails. You can always add vegetables into soups or pasta sauces. Grilled, not fried, fish filet or low-fat chicken breast goes well with your pasta or rice. Eat fruits and vegetables as much as possible. To increase fiber intake, drink psyllium or flaxseed dissolved in water, such as Citrucel or Metamucil.

In general, try eating foods that are low in fat and high in carbohydrates, such as whole grain pasta and breads, unprocessed (not quick-cooking) rice and cereals. Avoid food that is high in fat, insoluble fiber, caffeine, coffee, carbonation, or alcohol.

When relieving irritable bowel syndrome symptoms through dietary means, you should keep your water intake at a maximum. Water prevents dehydration, especially if you have diarrhea. Drink plain water. Carbonated drinks, such as sodas, may result in increased levels of gas and cause pain in the abdomen.

Irritable bowel syndrome may require you to change the way you eat your meals. Big portions of food can cause cramping and diarrhea. To prevent these occurrences eat smaller portions and plan your meals so that you eat more frequently. Less food requires less effort from your bowels, so the message is to eat little and often.

When following these simple diet guidelines people can start living a normal, happy, outgoing life. Diarrhea and pain should reduce in just a few days. Constipation, however, can take several weeks to relieve, but it is worth persevering. Besides, you will look and feel healthier, too!

By:

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To sign up for a free IBS newsletter showing you how to overcome IBS please visit Irritable Bowel Syndrome Relief Secrets.

Stop The Pain & Discomfort: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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Meditation for irritable bowel syndrome | Wildmind Buddhist Meditation
The Guardian: One small study shows that meditation helps to reduce symptoms of pain and bloating caused by irritable bowel syndrome. Read more here.

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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder which causes the bowels or the gut to be oversensitive. This increase in sensitivity causes a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, which includes excessive gas, stomach cramps and pains, bloating of the abdomen, constipation, and diarrhea. Obviously, these symptoms do not exactly make for the ideal life.

Unfortunately however, a large portion of IBS sufferers find that their condition cannot be fully cured. The medical profession has been unable to pinpoint exactly the causes of the syndrome. Thus, a cure has not been developed. In the absence of such a cure, however, the best thing and IBS sufferer can do is to get the best medical help available, as well as make relevant lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes may not be able to make IBS go away completely, but they will make the symptoms easier to cope with.

A change in diet is often necessary for IBS sufferers. By eating more fiber-rich foods such as apples, peaches, cabbage, and broccoli, an IBS sufferer can reduce the impact of both constipation and diarrhea. Food items such as carrots, peas, whole-wheat bread, and pineapples are good choices as well. On the other hand, alcohol and caffeine-rich beverages should be avoided.

Aside from changes in diet, one of the most important things an IBS sufferer can do is to get some regular exercise.

Exercise is vital to the IBS sufferer for two specific reasons. First, exercise makes your body stronger. Exercise strengthens the immune system, making it less likely that other illnesses or disorders will occur.

Second, exercise is a good way to relieve stress. Many doctors believe that IBS has psychological origins. When a mind is under unusual amounts of stress, it is more prone to mental problems. Mental problems, in turn, lead to physical problems. The symptoms of IBS often begin when a person is exposed to too much stress. Stress has not been proven to cause IBS; but it certainly makes it worse. Because of this, anyone with the syndrome should do his utmost to reduce his stress levels. Exercising, of course, is one of the finest ways to accomplish this.

People who exercise regularly report a feeling of well-being after their sessions. What happens is this: the brain releases endorphins. Endorphins are natural painkillers and antidepressants, so anyone in physical or mental pain will benefit from their release. Exercise isn’t only good for you; it makes you feel good as well!

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Medical and health self-help information, covering conventional and alternative health.

Technorati Tags: food and ibs, ibs natural cure, ibs therapy

Chronic constipation is said to be the first step in the development of colon cancer and other associated digestive disorders. Learn how to control bowel problems using natural treatment.

Constipation is one of the most common digestive disorders - furthermore, constipation is the most troublesome in terms of bowel control. Diarrhea is another unpleasant disorder; we all suffer from this type of delays and emergencies, but few of us know that they can be solved with the help of alternative medicine treatments. Natural herbs are there for you, waiting to be used and appreciated.

Dealing with these digestive disorders can be tricky, as even the "simple" constipation can be easily transformed into a chronic problem, in case harmful laxatives are used. But with the help of the natural remedies that are recommended by the alternative medicine, you have higher chances of being healthy again. It is important for you to know that if you use laxatives constantly, you will loose natural bowel movements and therefore, you might complicate your problem even more. On the other hand, you should be aware of the drugs that can cause constipation, diarrhea or other similar troubles. And this is mostly the case of the drugs for high blood pressure, depression, anemia or pain relief. The next smart move is to become informed about the natural herbs that have the power to prevent digestive disorders and to treat some of them.

One of the popular natural herbs that are used for relieving digestive disorders is dandelion, which acts like a mild laxative, having beneficial effects on the liver, as well. Moreover, your liver and general health might witness positive effects, due to the fact that dandelion contains many vitamins and minerals. Aloe ferox is another herb that is known from ancient times, due to its benefits upon troubled digestion. In addition, this medicinal herb is famous for its positive effects in case of inflammatory bowel diseases and inflammatory digestive disorders. Fennel seed is also famous for its capacity of restoring the natural balance of the digestive system, relieving spasm of the gastrointestinal tract and even the unpleasant feeling of fullness.

You can take full advantage of the natural herbs that are promoted by alternative medicine, as they have no side effects - as opposed to the traditional drugs. Secondly, these natural remedies present no risks of dependency and they purify the digestive system in a gentle manner, without causing unpleasant side effects. Thirdly, your liver will not be affected in any negative way.

Even if you suffer from the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you may benefit from the reliable and effective alternative medicine treatments. Magnesium is said to be the solution for such problems, as it activates the metabolic functions and it balances the digestion. Peppermint oil is another natural remedy of great efficiency for IBS - the main role of peppermint is to reduce the abdominal pain and to help eliminating intestinal gas. Furthermore, you should analyze your diet properly and determine the possible food intolerances. Mind-body therapy is also successful in identifying the causes of IBS and reducing its symptoms. Psychotherapy, hypnosis, biofeedback and relaxation techniques can help you treating IBS in an effective way.

There are other simple methods to improve your digestion: the consumption of more liquids, eating slower, chewing better and taking supplements for restoring the natural digestion. All you have to do now is choose the best natural solution for your digestive problem from this wide range of natural remedies.

Bowel control
Bowel control info.

Technorati Tags: ibs natural, ibs natural cures, IBS natural treatments

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can be greatly reduced or even eliminated with the proper diet and even with the use of appropriate medications. Irritable bowel syndrome does not lead to bleeding, cancer or inflammatory bowel diseases.

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS as is it commonly called is a very common disorder that affects at least 15% of the general population. This disease is sometimes called spastic colitis, nervous stomach, spastic colon or mucous colitis. Irritable bowel syndrome should not be mistaken for other diseases of the bowel such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder which means that there is an abnormality in the functioning of the bowels but no structural
abnormalities are present.

What causes IBS?

IBS symptoms seem to occur as a result of an abnormality of communication between the muscles of the bowel and the nervous system. This may result in the bowel becoming more sensitive or "irritated". The muscles which are located in the bowel wall may contract either too weakly or too forcefully, too rapidly or too slowly at certain times. There is no physical obstruction in the bowel, yet a patient may experience cramps or a functional blockage.

What role does stress play in IBS?

Stress does not cause IBS. It is not a psychiatric or a psychological disorder. However, one contributor to IBS is emotional stress. When a person becomes nervous or anxious, he or she may experience diarrhea or nausea. It may be impossible to control stress’s effect on our intestines, but if we are able to reduce the sources of stress in our daily lives, then this may help to reduce or alleviate the symptoms of IBS.

Is this IBS or something else?

You must have a comprehensive physical examination and medical history by a physician or a specialized colon and rectal surgeon in order to eliminate more serious disorders. You may have to have certain tests such as stool tests, blood tests, perhaps a colonoscopy and x-ray studies done. Fever, rectal bleeding, anemia, and unexplained weight loss are not symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and need to be assessed by your physician.

How is IBS treated?

If the patient understands that IBS is not a life-threatening or a serious condition, this may help to relieve stress and anxiety which are often contributors to IBS. Different techniques can be incorporated to reduce stress such as biofeedback, behavioral therapy, relaxation or even pain management techniques may all help to relieve IBS symptoms is certain individuals. The patient may wish to make use of a journal or diary to help identify certain factors or foods that may cause symptoms of IBS.

When can I expect relief of symptoms?

Relieving symptoms of IBS is often a very slow process. It may take as long as six months and sometimes longer to see any noticeable improvement of symptoms. It is extremely important for one to have patience when dealing with IBS. Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can be greatly reduced or even eliminated with the proper diet and even with the use of appropriate medications. Irritable bowel syndrome does not lead to bleeding, cancer or inflammatory bowel diseases.

Article written by Jessica Bradbury, she has a site dedicated to bottom line information on IBS, including spastic colon syndrome and the cure for irritable bowel syndrome.

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome, it is suggested, is a lifestyle-induced disorder. This also means that gaining relief from IBS is often something we can control through self-management and dietary changes. So, it is useful to be aware of the food Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms are often linked to.

Irritable bowel syndrome is associated with a number of symptoms, which can often be confused with other conditions are similarities, so this can make it difficult to diagnose.

The most prevalent symptoms include:

- Bloating and gas
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Urge for bowel movement immediately after food, generally breakfast
- Pain or cramping

Merely the presence of the above symptoms does not indicate that one has IBS. For instance, constipation not unusual, but it may not relate to IBS.

Similarly if you have a tendency for gas formation, there are chances that you have a minor digestive problem.

However, if you have some of these symptoms over a prolonged period of time, it may be indicative of IBS.

Continue reading to discover how to sign up for our free relieving IBS newsletter and find out how to relieve IBS symptoms naturally.

The final word, however, lies with your doctor. There are a number of medical tests that the doctor might conduct to ascertain whether a patient has IBS or not. Besides blood tests and physical test, the doctor may also conduct an endoscopy to eliminate any other potential causes.

As discussed above, IBS is a lifestyle disorder. On determining that a patient is suffering from IBS, the doctor might advise efforts to reduce stress besides diet changes. A carefully planned diet change plan can go a long way in alleviating symptoms of IBS.

As a person starts a treatment plan it is normal to reduce or eliminate the intake of trigger food, those foods that cause the IBS symptoms to flare up.

Some examples of the foods that are considered trigger foods include:

Dairy products - should be avoided, especially if you are lactose intolerant. Dairy products are generally high in fat, and even low fat alternatives should be avoided as they can trigger IBS symptoms. This means avoiding foods like milk, butter, cheese, cream, ice cream, and cottage cheese. It also means that these foods should not be included in recipes.

Red meats - should be avoided, as they are rich foods and generally high in fat and harder to digest. This includes all processed red meats as well, including sausages, hamburgers, ham and cured and smoked meats.

The dark meat of poultry should be avoided and poultry should be skinned before consumption. The white meat is fine to eat.

Foods that are high in fat should also be avoided, and foods that are prepared using a lot of fat or cooked in fat. This would include many foods that are not obviously deep-fried, so check the labels of any foods you add to the shopping basket.

It is recommended that the foods you chose to eat are bought are fresh and organic (where possible), and that processed goods are reduced or eliminated from the diet. Preservatives and additives can make IBS symptoms worse.

The bottom line is that for effected people, knowing which food Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms are triggered by will help to reduce the flare-ups and allow better management of the symptoms.

By: Susan Reynolds -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Irritable bowel syndrome is associated with a number of symptoms, which can often be confused with other conditions are similarities, so this can make it difficult to diagnose.

The most prevalent symptoms include:

- Bloating and gas
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Urge for bowel movement immediately after food, generally breakfast
- Pain or cramping

Merely the presence of the above symptoms does not indicate that one has IBS. For instance, constipation not unusual, but it may not relate to IBS.

Similarly if you have a tendency for gas formation, there are chances that you have a minor digestive problem.

However, if you have some of these symptoms over a prolonged period of time, it may be indicative of IBS.

Continue reading to discover how to sign up for our free relieving IBS newsletter and find out how to relieve IBS symptoms naturally.

The final word, however, lies with your doctor. There are a number of medical tests that the doctor might conduct to ascertain whether a patient has IBS or not. Besides blood tests and physical test, the doctor may also conduct an endoscopy to eliminate any other potential causes.

As discussed above, IBS is a lifestyle disorder. On determining that a patient is suffering from IBS, the doctor might advise efforts to reduce stress besides diet changes. A carefully planned diet change plan can go a long way in alleviating symptoms of IBS.

As a person starts a treatment plan it is normal to reduce or eliminate the intake of trigger food, those foods that cause the IBS symptoms to flare up.

Some examples of the foods that are considered trigger foods include:

Dairy products - should be avoided, especially if you are lactose intolerant. Dairy products are generally high in fat, and even low fat alternatives should be avoided as they can trigger IBS symptoms. This means avoiding foods like milk, butter, cheese, cream, ice cream, and cottage cheese. It also means that these foods should not be included in recipes.

Red meats - should be avoided, as they are rich foods and generally high in fat and harder to digest. This includes all processed red meats as well, including sausages, hamburgers, ham and cured and smoked meats.

The dark meat of poultry should be avoided and poultry should be skinned before consumption. The white meat is fine to eat.

Foods that are high in fat should also be avoided, and foods that are prepared using a lot of fat or cooked in fat. This would include many foods that are not obviously deep-fried, so check the labels of any foods you add to the shopping basket.

It is recommended that the foods you chose to eat are bought are fresh and organic (where possible), and that processed goods are reduced or eliminated from the diet. Preservatives and additives can make IBS symptoms worse.

The bottom line is that for effected people, knowing which food Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms are triggered by will help to reduce the flare-ups and allow better management of the symptoms.

By: Susan Reynolds -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Sign up for the free Irritable Bowel Syndrome Newsletter and discover new and natural methods to manage IBS, including more on the food Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms can be linked to.

Essential Tips on Natural Treatment For IBS
Eat fiber rich food items. From the first day you have noticed irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, change your daily diet. 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be found all around the world.
Also drink plenty of water. There are a few more food types to avoid, and some to eat more of.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Is Treated by Meds, Diet and De-Stressing
While 80 percent of patients with IBS find relief with the addition of fiber, for the remaining 20 percent, additional fiber could make symptoms worse.

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Foods for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is exactly what the name suggests. Irritating. It is usually caused due to a colon that does not function normally. Depending on the symptoms, a proper diet not just relieves the symptoms of IBS but helps cure it too.

Enlarge Image

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is the most common gastrointestinal disorder. In between 20 to 25% Americans suffer from it. It has been observed that women are more prone to IBS.

In most cases IBS causes severe cramping in the abdomen, severe pain in the abdomen, bloating, and constipation/diarrhea. Many fear leaving the house because of the severe pain, uncomfortable feeling, and sudden attacks of diarrhea. Sometimes IBS causes severe constipation, making it very strenuous to pass stools, resulting in severe cramping.

The colon is primarily responsible for most cases of IBS. The colon is the part that connects the small intestine to the rectum. The function of the colon is to absorb the nutrients and water present in the partially digested food as it leaves the small intestine and passes through it. This matter has to be pushed out of the colon by contractions into the rectum to pass out of the body. The problem begins when the colon is not able to pass out the food matter due to various reasons.

Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Some common causes of IBS may include the following.
— Eating in large quantities
— Being on too much medication that interferes with normal digestion
— Eating too much chocolate, milk products like cheese, and wheat can cause IBS in some persons
— Consuming too much alcohol
— Too much tea or coffee
— Being constantly stressed
— Many women are normal throughout the month but have symptoms of IBS during their menstrual periods

Diet that Helps Ease/Cure Irritable Bowel Syndrome
In a maximum number of cases the cause of IBS is food related. The normal diet for most Americans today consists of junk food. Burgers, pizzas, pastries, chocolates, interspersed with bouts of tea and coffee drinking, eating meats cooked rare, and consuming excess alcohol all add to an extremely strained digestive system. Smoking in many just worsens the symptoms.

Whenever you eat your food, be it breakfast, lunch, dinner, or anything in between, be relaxed while eating. Chew the food properly. Many just don’t chew their food. They find it too time consuming and unnecessary, and just gulp down their food. This is the cause of many gastrointestinal problems.

A diet that will help one may not be as effective for the other, but following certain basics will help.
— Never skip your meals, especially breakfast. Eat small quantities at regular intervals. People who skip meals put on more weight since they tend to overeat.
— Reduce your fat intake.
— While eating meat, make sure that it is lean and without any fat.
— Before cooking chicken and any bird remove skin and trim excess fat.
— Processed meats should be avoided as much as possible.
— When cooking meat and poultry make sure that you cook it till it is tender. Never eat meat that is undercooked. It will cause you a lot of digestive problems.
— Fiber, fiber, more fiber. It will work wonders if you have IBS.
— Avoid fried food, fat laden fast food, and foodstuff made of refined flour. Opt for wholegrain flour instead.
— Limit your intake of sugar.
— Limit your intake of salt. Processed foods contain high levels of salts and preservatives.
— Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Raw if possible, if not they should be lightly steamed.
— Keep drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Drinking too little water will surely make you suffer.
— Limit alcoholic drinks. Never snack on salted and oily snacks while having a drink. Snack on a fresh vegetable salad instead.
— Limit your intake of tea and coffee. Fruit juices must be prepared fresh and without sugar. Avoid fruit juices available at the supermarket. They are loaded with sugar and preservatives.

Following these rules will surely have beneficial effects. Adding more fiber in the form of fresh vegetables and fruits will not only be helpful for curing the IBS symptoms, but will also make you healthier.

Consult your physician when signs of IBS first appear. What you think is IBS could be something more serious.

Following all of the above mentioned points are not meant only for IBS sufferers. Even a perfectly healthy person should follow them. What it will ensure is that you live a healthier life and may never ever suffer from IBS.

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