1. Control Irritable Bowel Syndrome Through Your Diet
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition that manifests itself through a range of symptoms including constipation, diarrhea, cramping, bloating and gas. IBS affects each person differently, and even the same person can experience all of the symptoms at various times in their lives. Paying close attention to your diet can help you manage your irritable bowel syndrome to some extent, as most people have "trigger" foods that produce uncomfortable gas and bloating when they eat them. Many people with IBS find that following a high-fiber diet lessens their episodes of constipation and can reduce the painful muscle spasms of the colon that produce abdominal cramping. Unless you have been diagnosed with celiac disease, eating whole-grain breads, rices and pastas can increase the amount of fiber in your diet. Choose high-fiber fruits and vegetables such as oranges, strawberries, apples with the skin on, peas and and other legumes. Foods that are high in fat and carbonated drinks can cause gas in many IBS sufferers and should be consumed in moderation. Being adequately hydrated is another diet-related concern for people with irritable bowel syndrome. Drinking 48 to 64 ounces of water daily can help reduce constipation and ensures that you are replacing fluids that you lose during bouts of diarrhea.
2. Medications Can Help Control IBS
Speak to your doctor about the option of medication to help control your IBS symptoms if changes in your diet are not enough. She may prescribe an anti-diarrheal drug or a laxative for constipation, depending on what your main symptoms are. Painful cramping that cannot be controlled through other means may be managed by taking anti-spasmodic drugs or muscle relaxants. Drugs of this type can become habit forming and should be taken to alleviate IBS symptoms as a short-term solution.
3. Manage IBS Through Your Mind and Body
Many people who have irritable bowel syndrome find that their symptoms are more pronounced (especially cramping and a sudden urge to eliminate) when they are upset, stressed or nervous. If you find this happens to you, it is important to find a way to reduce your stress, anger or other negative emotions. Getting regular exercise can help clear your mind and make you feel better physically as well. Make sure you get a full night's sleep so you wake up refreshed, rather than cranky and stressed out about the day ahead. If you have issues that you are unable to resolve on your own, counseling may be able to help you sort out your emotions. People with IBS who reduce the stress in their lives find that they often experience fewer symptoms or that their discomfort is less intense.
