Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a condition of the intestines. Some symptoms of IBS include constipation, abdominal distention, bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort and pain and diarrhea. Approximately 10 to 15 percent of people in the United States suffer from IBS, according to a study in the January 2009 edition of "The American Journal of Gastroenterology." Certain foods may help to improve symptoms of IBS.
Soluble Fiber
A lack of dietary fiber was commonly believed to be the foremost cause of IBS. Insoluble fiber may worsen symptoms, but soluble fiber may reduce symptoms. Broccoli, carrots, citrus fruits, oats and kidney beans contain soluble fiber. Bran, whole grains, and leafy vegetables contain insoluble fiber. Although soluble fiber may be beneficial, some people experience excessive bloating and gas when increasing their soluble fiber intake. To lessen symptoms, a gradual increase of soluble fiber with ample water intake is recommended, according to an article in the July 2009 issue of the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association."
Probiotics
Probiotics are microorganisms that are similar to the "good" bacteria population in the intestines. Two common types of probiotics include lactobacillus and bidifobacterium. Yogurt, fermented milk, miso, some soy beverages contain probiotics and they are available as supplements. According to the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association," some research findings indicate that probiotics alleviate symptoms of IBS; however, further research is required before probiotics can be recommended to treat the condition.
Turmeric
Turmeric, a member of the ginger family, has been used in herbal medicine for treating digestive disturbances. In a study in the December 2004 issue of "The Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine" results showed promise for turmeric reducing symptoms of IBS. However, more research is necessary to definitely say turmeric alleviates IBS symptoms.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint has a long tradition of medicinal use. The oil of peppermint relaxes the smooth muscles of the intestines. Consuming peppermint oil may reduce symptoms of IBS. A review of research in the August 2005 issue of "Phytomedicine" concluded that peppermint oil is effective for alleviating symptoms of IBS and may be the "drug of first choice" for treating mild IBS symptoms.
References
- "American Journal of Gastroenterology"; Systematic Review on the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in North America; Lawrence Brandt, M.D., David Bjorkman, M.D., Brian Fennerty, M.D., G. Richard Locke, M.D., Kevin Olden, M.D., Water Peterson, M.D., Eamonn Quigley, M.D., Philip Schoenfeld, M.D., Marvin Schuster, M.D., and Nicholas Talley, M.D., Ph.D.; January 2009.
- "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine"; Turmeric Extract may Improve Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptomology in Otherwise Healthy Adults: A Pilot Study; Rafe Bundy, Ph.D., Ann Walker, Ph.D., Richard Middleton, Ph.D., and Jonathan Booth, M.D.; December 2004
- "Journal of the American Dietetic Association"; The Role of Diet in Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome In Adults: A Narrative Review; William Heizer, M.D., Susannah Southern, and Susan McGovern; July 2009
- "Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology"; Diet in the Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Martin Floch, M.D. and Rathi Narayan, M.D.; July 2002
- "Phytomedicine"; Peppermint Oil in Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Hans-Gunther. Grigoleti and P Grigoleit; August 2005
