Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be a debilitating condition, and it often comes with symptoms like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.
IBS often affects young and middle-aged women, but men can also develop the condition. At least one-third of patients are male, and both children and children and older adults can have IBS.
Below are some common symptoms of IBS and effective natural remedies for the condition.
Bloating and gas are two symptoms that are often experienced simultaneously by patients with IBS. They are also linked to constipation, especially if food has been in the digestive tract for a while. Food may ferment, producing extra gas and causing bloating. But inflammation and bad bacteria linked to diarrhea may also cause bloating, so identifying the cause of these two symptoms is crucial to treating them. In women, bloating can also be caused by gynecological issues.
Treatment for bloating and gas is often connected to different symptoms and the underlying cause. Dealing with stress can help treat bloating since stress may influence how the digestive system processes food.
Staying hydrated can also treat bloating and gas. An increased water intake can help food and wind pass through the intestine more easily. Drink about two liters of filtered water and/or unsweetened herbal tea daily.
Constipation is another symptom of IBS. The natural remedy for constipation is regular exercise. If you have a busy schedule, even a brisk 30-minute walk or jog can encourage peristalsis, or the process that helps food and waste get to the bowel quicker.
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Eating the right probiotic strain can also ease constipation, which is usually caused by an imbalance in gut bacteria. For example, Bifidobacterium lactis BB12 can ease constipation and diarrhea.
If diarrhea is recurring, it’s better to treat the underlying causes. The best way to do this is by undergoing a food intolerance test. Diarrhea is one of the main signs of food intolerance. However, even if specific foods can trigger gut reactions, not everyone will benefit from the same diet. During a food intolerance test, patients will be gradually exposed to different foods to determine which ones cause a reaction. After the food triggers are identified, patients will be given a dietary program that will eliminate triggers.
Another natural remedy for diarrhea is Saccharomyces boulardi (S. boulardi), a specific strain of probiotic. Research shows that it can help cure diarrhea. Since diarrhea is usually the result of an overgrowth of pathogenic, or “bad’ bacteria in the gut, the sugar called D-mannose on S. boulardi’s outer cell membrane helps attract these pathogens. The probiotic then guides the bad bacteria away from the digestive system and this helps to minimize the infection.
Stomach (abdomen) pain or discomfort is usually the most common symptom of IBS. The pain is often felt in the lower stomach near the left-hand side, and it can range in intensity from a constant dull ache to a sudden sharp stabbing pain. Patients can also get cramps that are eased by going to the toilet, but the cramps may worsen after eating. Probiotics, an effective natural remedy for stomach pain and cramping, are live bacteria and yeasts that can improve gut health. (Related: Strategies For Managing IBS.)
Gut health is crucial for treating the symptoms of IBS and digestive health. Eating more fermented foods can also help re-colonize various strains of good bacteria in the gut. When good bacteria thrive in the gut, IBS symptoms can be reduced. Sources include kefir (a fermented milk drink), kimchi (a fermented Korean pickle dish), kombucha (a fermented tea), and sauerkraut.
Tiredness is another IBS symptom and it often occurs when food is not properly absorbed. A healthcare professional can help you find out if your fatigue is caused by serious medical conditions or vitamin deficiencies. Once these causes are ruled out, tiredness that manifests along with other IBS symptoms can be the result of gut problems.
All of the previously listed natural remedies can help treat fatigued patients with IBS. Taking a probiotic with various strains to address the different symptoms can soothe both IBS symptoms and help boost “energy levels, general well-being, and immune function, Beeson concluded.
You can read more articles about effective natural cures for IBS at Healing.
Sources include:
Healthista
Rush.edu
