IBS, also known as irritable bowel syndrome, is an intestinal condition characterized by constipation, gas, bloating, abdominal distention, pain, diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. A 2009 article published in the "The American Journal of Gastroenterology" reported that approximately 10 to 15 percent of Americans suffer from IBS. Consuming certain foods may reduce or prevent IBS symptoms.
Soluble Fiber
Although insoluble fiber may increase IBS symptoms, soluble fiber may reduce them. Carrots, citrus fruits, broccoli, kidney beans and oats all contain soluble fiber. Whole grains, leafy vegetables and bran contain insoluble fiber, which may irritate IBS symptoms. Although soluble fiber consumption may be beneficial, you may experience gas and excessive bloating when increasing your soluble fiber intake. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, gradually increase your soluble fiber intake with water to lessen or reduce related symptoms. Mixing soluble fiber with at least 64 oz. of water helps to promote healthy digestion functions.
Probiotics
Probiotics are microorganisms that contain similar properties of "good bacteria" in the human body, particularly the intestinal tract. Two common types of probiotics include bidifobacterium and lactobacillus. Yogurt, miso, some soy beverages and fermented milk contain probiotics and are widely available as dietary supplements. Although some research indicates that probiotics are beneficial to IBS treatment, further studies is required before probiotics or related sources can be recommended to treat irritable bowel syndrome, notes the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association."
Turmeric
A member of the ginger family, turmeric has been commonly used in herbal medicine practices for treating digestive conditions. It is often used as a herb in different foods to add flavor. A study in the "The Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine," reported that turmeric demonstrated promise for reducing irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. However, more research is currently being conducted to officially conclude if turmeric reduces IBS symptoms.
Peppermint Oil
There is a long tradition of using peppermint for medicinal use. Peppermint oil relaxes and relieves intestinal muscles. As a result, consuming peppermint oil may alleviate irritable bowel syndrome. Research published by Hans-Gunther in the 2005 issue of "Phytomedicine" found that peppermint oil may become very important in treating and alleviating IBS symptoms because of its effects on the promoting digestive functions in the intestines.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- "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 Clinical Gastroenterology"; Diet in the Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Martin Floch, M.D. and Rathi Narayan, M.D.; July 2002
- "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
- "Phytomedicine"; Peppermint Oil in Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Hans-Gunther. Grigoleti and P Grigoleit; August 2005
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