IBS Cures

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), formerly known as a spastic colon, is a common condition. If you're diagnosed with this disorder, you may encounter alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation, stomach cramps, gas and abdominal bloating. Like most digestive conditions, spastic colon or IBS can affect your eating habits and everyday routine. But there are several remedies to relieve symptoms.

Diet and IBS Symptoms

• Irritable bowel syndrome isn't as severe as other digestive tract disorders such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which can damage the intestinal tract and cause colon cancer. Nonetheless, diarrhea, constipation and stomach pains can become a regular and painful occurrence.

  There are many different ways to ease IBS. Oftentimes, it's simply a case of removing certain foods and drinks from your diet. Common offenders or triggers include spicy foods, wheat products, dairy products, artificial sweeteners, chocolate, fatty foods, carbonated drinks, and "gassy" vegetables such as onions, green peppers, lettuce and broccoli. Avoid these foods one-by-one, and note whether your symptoms improve. Also, keep notes of what foods you ate before an episode of IBS to help determine if any other foods are a trigger for you.

Manage IBS With Fiber

• Constipation, gas and bloating are related, and all three are common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. A low-fiber diet is the primary cause behind constipation. Gas develops in the intestinal tract when bowels are irregular, and this results in bloating and stomach pains.

  Adding more fiber into your diet can help combat constipation and ease IBS symptoms. Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, or take a fiber supplement to maintain your digestive health. But be careful, as too much fiber can sometimes aggravate or trigger IBS. Consume between 20 and 35 grams of fiber a day.

Exercise for a Healthy Digestive Tract

• If you're looking for a natural way to deal with irritable bowel syndrome, get active and start an exercise routine. A healthy lifestyle is one way to maintain your digestive health. Exercise helps your body shed excess fluids, improves your immune system and regulates your bowels. Continuous movement stimulates intestinal contractions and relieves constipation.

  Re-work your schedule and put forth every effort to work out for at least 30 minutes a day, or more if you have the time. Go for a brisk walk, get a gym membership or work out to an aerobics video.