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Remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive condition, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Several factors play a role in IBS, and controlling symptoms often involves pinpointing the factors that trigger the condition. Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include abdominal cramping, flatulence and alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation. Although medications are available to treat severe cases, home remedies are normally effective.

  1. Increase Fiber

    • Chronic constipation is common with irritable bowel syndrome, in which sufferers have less than three bowel movements a week. This can result in abdominal pain, gas and bloating. To remedy constipation due to IBS, gradually increase your intake of fiber. Fiber-rich foods include whole grains (cereals and pasta), fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and beans. Adults need between 20 and 35 grams of fiber a day. If you don't receive the recommended serving through your diet, take a fiber supplement.

    Stay Active

    • Persistent worrying or stress can increase intestinal contractions and cause diarrhea, whereas lack of physical activity can slow intestinal contraction and result in constipation. Regular exercise and staying active can help remedy symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Exercise releases the brain chemical dopamine (a pleasure hormone), which can relieve depression and help you cope with stressful situations and anxiety, thus bringing intestinal contractions back to normal and stopping diarrhea. In regards to constipation, exercise stimulates slow intestinal contractions and encourages a bowel movement.

    Eliminate Certain Foods

    • Keep track of your meals and symptoms. Foods and drinks can trigger IBS symptoms. To remedy the condition, you'll need to identify problem foods and remove these from your diet. IBS triggers include sodas, caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, fatty foods and certain vegetables (cabbage, lettuce and cauliflower). Additionally, IBS sufferers typically deal with lactose intolerance, in which dairy foods such as milk, cheese and ice cream produce uncomfortable symptoms. Avoid milk products or take a lactose digestive enzyme before consuming dairy. Natural digestive enzymes such as Beano can also be taken before meals to prevent gas and bloating.

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