IBS is a functional disorder affecting mainly the small intestines. There is an increase sensitiveness of the nerves and muscles in the bowels so that eating cause them to contract excessively leading to changes in bowel function. Since the bowels are not working or behaving as they should normally be, the symptoms appear either during a meal or shortly after. The increased intestinal contractions forces the food towards the intestines more quickly which leads to the appearance of symptoms.These symptoms include abdominal pain (crampy), flatulence, bloating, and diarrhea. There can also be mucus in the stool. In some individuals the opposite happens so that the passage of food slows down causing constipation instead of diarrhea. The symptoms range from mild to severe depending on the sensitivity of the individual. The exact cause on why the intestines are behaving as such is still unknown. Research show that there are certain foods that trigger the condition. Stress and other illnesses in the gastrointestinal tract may also trigger IBS. The foods that tend to trigger IBS include milk products (cheese, ice cream, etc), fatty foods, alcohol, chocolates, caffeinated and carbonated drinks. These foods does not trigger IBS in all individuals who have the syndrome. If you have IBS it is best for you to observe what food really triggers the appearance of your symptoms so that you can lessen or avoid such foods. There is no specific cure for IBS. What we can do is relieve symptoms by going through certain changes:
- Changes in the Diet/Eating habits. It has been found that fiber helps control constipation and it also reduces symptoms of IBS. It is therefore important to incorporate high fiber foods in your everyday meals. Some fiber-rich foods include vegetables like raw broccoli, raw carrots, and cabbage. Fiber is also found in cereals, bread, and fruits (apple). Try also to eat lesser amount of food during meal times or if not try eating more frequently but in smaller amounts. Increasing your fluid intake also helps.
- Try to reduce stress by having a regular exercise. Exercise will give your body lots of benefits and it also helps lessen risk of cardiovascular disease. There is a great variety of exercises which you can choose from. Choose the one which you will really enjoy and which you will be able to continue regularly. You can also include some meditation techniques, yoga, or pilates.
- Medications are available to help relieve symptoms. These include anti-diarrheal meds, laxatives for constipation, antispasmodics, and antidepressants.
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