Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a common, chronic condition in which your normal bowel function is impaired. The National Health Service of the United Kingdom states that irritable bowel syndrome more commonly affects women than men, and that IBS-related symptoms usually manifest in early adulthood, in people between the ages of 20 and 30. Certain supplements may help treat this condition and its symptoms, but you should always meet with your doctor before using dietary supplements to treat your ailments.
IBS and Bloating
IBS is a disorder associated with abdominal pain, bloating, cramping and changes in your bowel movements, although it should not be confused with inflammatory bowel disease, notes the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are examples of inflammatory bowel disease. Abdominal discomfort or pain, abdominal fullness, intestinal gas and bloating that persist for six months are symptoms indicative of IBS. IBS-related symptoms can range from mild to severe, notes the center.
Useful Supplements
Numerous supplements may be helpful in treating your IBS and its accompanying symptoms, including bloating. Naturopathic physician Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," states that two of the most useful supplements for this condition may be Lactobacillus acidophilus and enteric-coated volatile oils, especially peppermint oil. Other useful supplements may include essential fatty acids, L-glutamine, vitamin B complex, marshmallow and rose hips. Some of these supplements may require further study to determine their efficacy in treating this condition.
Highlighted Supplement
Peppermint oil is a frequently prescribed dietary supplement in the treatment of IBS. Peppermint oil, notes naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," has traditionally been used in treating IBS, intestinal gas, indigestion and other gastrointestinal problems. Peppermint oil may be especially helpful in treating the abdominal discomfort, bloating, diarrhea and flatulence that commonly accompany IBS. This supplement, notes Tilgner, should not be used by pregnant women or nursing mothers.
Additional Information
IBS may be a lifelong condition in some people, although this condition does not cause permanent damage in your affected tissues. In most cases, your IBS-related symptoms may respond to treatment. If you have IBS, meet with your health care provider to discuss appropriate and effective treatment measures. Dietary supplements may be a helpful part of your IBS treatment plan, but you should avoid using supplements until you have discussed supplement dosage and methods of use with your doctor.
References
- National Health Service: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., N.D.; 2002
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
