Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a digestive condition characterized by abnormal contractions of the muscles in the bowel. Usually, it develops in young adults, and typical symptoms include abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, diarrhea or constipation. Up to 60 percent of IBS suffers also have psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. If you consider taking vitamins and other nutrient for better manage this condition, talk to your doctor first.
Managing IBS Naturally
A healthy diet and natural supplements are important in treating irritable bowel syndrome, according to a medical team from Matsui Hospital in Japan. In an article in a 1992 issue of "Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine," patients suffering from IBS need a healthy balance of vitamins, minerals and nutrients and plenty of green and yellow vegetables as well as seaweed. They also should eliminate refined and processed foods. Although all vitamins are essential for optimal health, B vitamins appear to be particularly important for improving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
B Vitamins
All B vitamins are recommended for managing irritable bowel syndrome, says Dr. James Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." B vitamins are water-soluble nutrients necessary for optimal function and muscle tone of the digestive tract. Balch recommends 50 to 100 mg of B complex formula three times daily with meals for adults suffering from IBS. He also suggests extra doses of B-12 because this particular vitamin is important for optimal absorption of the foods and the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. The blood levels of vitamin B-2 should also be monitored. A study conducted by a research team from Medical University in Poland found that men suffering from IBS appear to have low dietary intake of this nutrient.
Research
B vitamins, particularly B-1, B-2, B-3 and B-6, along with other herbs and supplements, showed significant improvement in treating irritable bowel syndrome, according to a study from the December 2006 issue of "Minerva Gastroenterologica e Dietologica." Thirty-seven participants suffering from IBS received a combination of B vitamins and herbs for six months. The authors found a significant reduction in abdominal pain, abdominal distension, diarrhea and constipation associated with this condition during the course of the therapy.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health-care provider to find out more about vitamins and other natural supplements that may help improve your symptoms. Keep in mind that vitamins do not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional drugs prescribed for irritable bowel syndrome.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James Balch, M.D., et al; 2002
- "Minerva Gastroenterologica e Dietologica"; Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. A Case Control Experience; M. Astegiano, et al; December 2006
- "Rockzniki Pantswowego Zaklaudu Higieny"; Assessment of Dietary Intake of Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome; A. Pretscha, et al; 2009
- "Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine"; Dietary Treatment in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Y. Nagoaka; 2009
