Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndome
Sometimes, many people would agree that physical relief can be very hard to find, and, no, matter what you do, the symptoms just keep on increasing. Before you know it, you would have spent half the day in the bathroom, or, you would have had to call in sick to work. After a few health check-ups and tests, you have finally been informed that you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Though initially relieved by this diagnosis, you will now need to learn how to master it. The positive element in this is that this is not a terminal condition. It has been reported that more women than men will come down with Irritable Bowel Syndome. Today, approximately, 20 percent of the adult population experience IBS symptoms. IBS is known as the most well-known chronic health disorder in America, UK, Canada, New Zealand and Australia.
Irritable Bowel Syndome is a condition that is characterized as having stomach spasms, cramping, abdominal pain, gas, nausea, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. Nonetheless, these symptoms will not lead to a more serious condition or disease, however uncomfortable they might be. But it is important to understand that this is a chronic condition that, if not sufficiently treated, can control a person’s life. The condition can sometimes make it extremely difficult for a person to work, travel short or long distances or even attend certain social events. Also, attacks can occur suddenly, at any time, day or night, and have been known to even sometimes happen while people were sound asleep. Stress, whether mental or emotional, can stimulate colon spasms causing an individual’s IBS to flare up. Approximately, 70 percent of people suffering from IBS are not receiving any kind of medical treatment for their symptoms.
There is not a cure for Irritable Bowel Syndome, as it is known to be a brain-gut dysfunction. Although it is incurable, this condition can still be controlled by diet, exercise and lowering your overall stress. Trying to gain control through your diet will be an initial step, especially, since your stomach and intestines will be playing a direct role. Because everyone’s body reacts differently to many kinds of foods, it might be difficult to establish strict guidelines. Nevertheless, foods high in fat, insoluble fiber, caffeine, coffee, carbonation or alcohol will be problematic. Conversely, foods with soluble fibers will be the single greatest dietary aid for preventing IBS. Soluble fibers are not found in foods you would typically think of as containing fiber, as soluble fibers will make it possible to stabilize the intestinal contractions while working to soothe and regulate the digestive tract. The main element to living with IBS is knowing how to control the symptoms, thus not allowing your symptoms control you.
Important Note: While the information contained in this article is provided in good faith, we always recommend you consult a qualified doctor or physician. Your doctor can provide you professional advice for your particular situation.