Remedy, control & natural cure for irritable bowel syndrome
The first step in learning to control IBS symptoms is recognizing the factors that may trigger symptoms. A diary that records IBS symptoms along with all foods and beverages ingested and stressful events can help pinpoint possible culprits. A woman should determine whether symptoms flare up during certain times of her menstrual cycle. When tracking lBS symptoms, jot down the nature and location of any pain, as w as the frequency and consistency of stools and any related problems, such as headaches. Your diary should also note all medications taken, including supplements. A doctor should review this diary to help identify specific con tributing factors.
DIETARY MODIFICATION
Because IBS differs from person to person, it’s essential to develop an individualized regimen to treat your symptoms. To begin, avoid foods that your diary suggests are causing problems. Eat several small meals a day instead of large ones. This can reduce the meal-stimulat ed increase in bowel contractions and diarrhea. Eat slowly. Eating too quickly may increase swallowed air, which promotes irritating intes tinal gas. Also, poorly chewed foods can be more difficult to digest. Drink lots of water. To maintain adequate fluid, drink at least eight glasses of water or other beverages daily, hut avoid such potential bowel irritants as alcohol and caffeine. Avoid fatty foods. Most doctors advise against eating fried and other fatty foods because fat is the most difficult nutrient to digest. Many people find that it helps to avoid beans and other gas-producing foods.
Watch your fiber intake. Whole-grain products and other high-fiber foods can pose problems for some lBS sufferers who have chronic diarrhea. On the other hand, if constipation is the predominant symptom, a diet that includes ample fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain breads and cereals, nuts and seeds, and other high-fiber foods is usually recommended. Insoluble fiber (see Fiber) helps to bulk up stools and ease elimination, relieving lBS-associated constipation. Foods high in soluble fiber absorb water and are helpful for bouts of diarrhea. If constipation is pe ask your doctor about ãking seeds or another high- fiber laxative. Avoid chronic laxative use, which can lead to problems with vitamin and nutritional deficiencies. Avoid sugar alcohols. The sugar substitutes sorbitol, lactitol, mannitol, and maltitol are used in a variety of foods and can trigger lBS symptoms in some people. For others, the lac tose in dairy pr and possibly fructose can exacerbate sym
