Natural Remedy for a Spastic Colon

Spastic colon is another name for irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. This common disorder causes an array of symptoms such as bloating, stomach cramps, diarrhea and constipation. And although a spastic colon isn't serious, symptoms can impact life and normal routines. But fortunately, you can treat a spastic colon with natural remedies.

Treat Constipation With Fiber

• Constipation is common with a spastic colon, wherein bowel movements become infrequent (fewer than three stools a week). Constipation causes a multitude of symptoms such as bloating, gas and hard stools. But incorporating more fiber into your diet is a quick and natural way to fight a spastic colon and regulate movements.

  Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, bean and nuts. And if you don't receive an adequate supply of fiber through foods alone, fiber supplements such as Benefiber can provide the recommended dose, which is between 20 and 35 g for adults. Keep your daily fiber dose within this range to ward off diarrhea, which is a side effect of too much fiber.

Relieve a Spastic Colon With Activity

• Movement is beneficial to your body and health. And if you deal with IBS or a spastic colon, 30 minutes of activity a day can improve your digestive health and regulate intestinal contractions.

  Constipation results from slow contractions. In turn, fecal matter moves through the intestinal tract at a slower pace. Get active and find ways to include exercise into your life. There are fun and creative ways to stay active such as taking a dance class or joining an aerobics class. Also join a local fitness club, take a brisk walk, jog or ride a bike. If your schedule doesn't allow daily workouts, aim for three to five days a week.

Watch Your Diet

• Food and a spastic colon go hand-in-hand. And oftentimes, symptoms of a spastic colon arise after eating and drinking certain foods and drinks. To control and remedy this condition naturally, pinpoint your triggers. For a week or so, record your meals and beverages and keep an accurate record of your symptoms. Do symptoms develop after eating milk products or certain vegetables? If so, temporarily remove these possible triggers from your diet and see if the condition improves.

  Common causes of a spastic colon include "gassy vegetables" such as broccoli, onions and cauliflower, carbonated drinks, artificial sweetners and fatty foods such as red meats. What's more, milk products are a common trigger; and to prevent symptoms of a spastic colon, it's best to take a digestive enzyme before eating these foods.