Spastic colon is also known as irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, which is characterized by symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, cramping and intestinal gas, according to gastroenterologist Michael F. Picco of MayoClinic.com. Although the term “spastic colon” is used to describe more frequent spontaneous contractions of muscles within the intestines, irritable bowel syndrome can also be characterized by infrequent contractions. Altering your nutrition is one way to help reduce irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.
Fiber Helps
Fiber can help reduce problems associated with spastic colon. Soluble fiber, which is in foods such as apples and beans, becomes a gel-like substance in the intestines when it dissolves in the intestines. This can slow the movement of material through the intestines to reduce diarrhea problems but also can help make material softer and easier to pass, preventing constipation, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Insoluble fiber in whole grains and many types of vegetables also helps reduce constipation by making stool bulkier.
Safely Increase Fiber
Women 50 and younger should get at least 25 g of fiber a day, women over 50 should get at least 21 g of fiber a day, men 50 and under should have at least 38 g per day and men over 50 should have at least 30 g per day. A ½-cup serving of navy beans has about 9.5 g of fiber, and one artichoke has about 6.5 g of fiber, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Suddenly increasing the amount of fiber in your diet may cause gas and bloating problems because your intestines aren’t accustomed to passing it through. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse recommends reducing the risk of these problems by increasing your intake of fiber by about 2 to 3 g per day until you meet your daily goals. Also drink about eight glasses of calorie-free drinks such as water and unsweetened tea to help your body process fiber. If problems persist, your doctor may recommend that you take up to 1 to 2 tbsp. of a fiber supplement twice a day.
Identify Problem Foods
Some foods can worsen irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. For instance, dairy products may cause digestive problems if you lack the enzyme to digest the milk sugar lactose, and “gassy” vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage, may exacerbate gas problems if you are sensitive to them. You may also notice an increase in symptoms if you drink alcohol or caffeine, if you eat chocolate or if you have greasy or spicy foods. Keep a dietary journal to discover your own trigger foods. If the problem is lactose intolerance or sensitivity to “gassy” vegetables, your doctor may recommend that you take a dietary enzyme supplement with those foods. In some cases, you may need to avoid the culprits altogether.
Adapt Eating Habits
You may also be able to reduce digestive problems if you make slight adjustments to your typical eating habits. For instance, turning three large meals into frequent small meals may help reduce diarrhea and cramping, according to the national Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Also consider your standard after-meal habits. Lying down immediately after a meal may cause discomfort, but taking a walk after you eat may help improve your digestion.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Spastic Colon: What Does it Mean?; Michael F. Picco, M.D.
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Controlling Your Symptoms
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Fiber: How to Increase the Amount in Your Diet
- Health Services at Columbia University; Spastic Colon; 1994
- University of Iowa Health Care: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Spastic Colon)
- MayoClinic.com: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- MayoClinic.com: Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet
