IBS: Tips on Living a Balanced Life For Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Are you tired of dealing with the uncomfortable symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)? Living with IBS can be challenging, but luckily there are some simple home remedies that can help relieve the symptoms. In this post, we will discuss several home remedies that may be helpful in managing your IBS symptoms. We hope that this post has provided you with some helpful tips for managing your IBS symptoms. Remember to always consult your doctor before starting any new medication or supplement. With the right combination of diet, lifestyle changes, and natural remedies, you can find relief from your IBS symptoms.

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you are not alone. Once a relatively rare disorder, IBS now affects an estimated 20 to 30 percent of the U.S. population. It is the most common reason for a referral to a gastroenterologist. IBS is characterized by a malfunction in the digestive tract. Usually, waste material is delivered through the tract to the rectum by rhythmic contractions of the intestines. In IBS, those contractions become erratic and irregular. Bowel movements are unpredictable and painful, with attending constipation, diarrhea, or an alternation of both. The abdomen may be cramped or bloated, certain foods can no longer be tolerated, and other all too familiar signs of gastric distress develop. In some cases, waste matter is pushed through the tract with such force that stool incontinence results.

What Are The Common IBS Symptoms and Signs?

IBS is a disorder with a combination of symptoms. Most often, abdominal pain and bloating are present. Some individuals experience constipation, some have diarrhea, and some have alternating bouts with both. While the symptoms of IBS are troublesome, the good news is that the condition does not cause long-term damage to the digestive system. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an uncomfortable and often painful condition that affects the gastrointestinal system. Normally, food travels through your digestive system propelled by wavelike contractions of the intestinal muscles. But if you have irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, the contractions are irregular may be fast and spastic, causing diarrhea, or slow and weak, causing constipation. Other symptoms include abdominal pain and gas. Causes are unknown, but doctors have discovered that elevated stress, along with certain foods, aggravate IBS. Women are twice as likely as men to get the syndrome.

Root Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (or spastic colon) is a very common disorder with recurrent abdominal pain, intermittent diarrhea alternating with constipation. There are really 5 main fundamental causes of IBS. The modern day, fast food diet is definitely one of them. Refined foods that are hard to digest contribute to many symptoms of poor digestion. Second, poor stress-coping mechanisms trigger nervous system reactions that contribute to IBS. Unresolved emotional traumas can have this negative effect as well. Third, chronic infections of the digestive tract with candida, parasites, and bacteria can be causative factors. Fourth, poorly functioning digestive organs contribute to IBS symptoms. These include dysbiosis, where there is a deficiency of the good bacteria that are involved with digestion and detoxification. The fifth cause, and the least common, is a structural abnormality of some type. Spinal misalignments, for example, impair nerve flow to the digestive tract, which contributes to digestive problems.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Pain Herbal Remedies

1. Soothe Digestive Tract: Combine fennel seeds, cinnamon chips and aniseed in a clean jar. Take all herbs in equal quantity that is 1 teaspoon. Add 1 tablespoon dried peppermint leaves and 1/2 teaspoon cardamom seeds in it. Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Add the spice mixture. Cover and steep for 15 minutes. Strain and enjoy before and after meals. Fennel is in the parsley family, along with anise, caraway, and licorice. All have value for the digestive tract. Fennel is a carminative herb, meaning it helps expel gas from the stomach and intestines. It’s also traditionally used to relieve nausea and vomiting, inflammation, and intestinal spasms. Cardamom also relieves intestinal spasms, gas, bloating, and flatulence. Peppermint relieves pain, cramping, and gas. Encapsulated peppermint oil significantly reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and dyspepsia.
2. Manage Stress with Meditation and Relaxation: Since stress is one of the factors known to trigger an IBS flare up, learn to short circuit it with meditation, yoga, or a simple breathing exercise like this one. Sit comfortably, or lie down. Turn your attention to the air going in and out of your body. When upsetting or anxiety-producing thoughts intrude, focus completely on your breathing. Practice this daily. Then, whenever you feel yourself becoming tense and anxious, use it to calm yourself.
3. Peppermint – An Effective Herb: Peppermint tea has a relaxing effect on gastrointestinal tissues and can relieve pain. Steep a heaping teaspoon of dried peppermint leaf in a cup of boiling water, strain, and sip. Small doses of peppermint oil may help relieve indigestion, as well as the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Alternatively, you can take enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules. The coating ensures that the oil reaches the intestine instead of breaking down in the stomach. Take one or two capsules three times a day, between meals.
4. A Digestive Leaf: Take 2 artichoke. Slice off the artichoke top, trim the thorny tips and stem, and place in a steamer basket. In a pot, place about 2 inches (5 cm) of water, pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice and bring to a boil. Steam the artichoke in the pot, covered, for about 30 minutes or until the bottom of the artichoke can be pierced. In a clean bowl, stir together 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic. Remove the artichoke from the pot and allow it to cool. Pull off each artichoke petal and dip it into the olive oil mixture. Enjoy pulling the flesh off the base of the petal with your teeth. When all the petals are pulled away, scoop out and discard the fuzzy center. The fleshy artichoke heart remains. Slice it and enjoy on a salad or just plain. Many think it’s the best part. Artichoke, a botanical relative of milk thistle, is the main ingredient in the Italian bitter aperitif Cynar. Milk thistle seeds are a bitter digestive tonic and also protect the liver and stimulate it to make bile. The seeds are one ingredient in a botanical formula shown to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and dyspepsia. Leaf extracts also significantly reduce dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome.
5. Indian Ayurvedic Formula: According to Ayurveda, irritable bowel syndrome is due to vata pushing pitta into the colon. To help correct the situation, combine the herbs – shatavari 1 part, kama dudha 1/8 part, shanka bhasma 1/8 part and arrowroot 2 parts. Take 1/2 teaspoon of this mixture a couple of times a day with a little warm water, just after eating.
6. Easy Home Remedy: Drink ginger tea. Ginger soothes all manner of digestive problems, including IBS. For the freshest tea, grate a 1/2 teaspoon of ginger into a cup, then pour in hot water, let it steep for 10 minutes, strain out the ginger, and drink the tea. Ginger tea bags are also available. Drink four to six cups a day.
7. Get Enough Fiber: If you can’t seem to get enough soluble fiber in your diet, take a daily supplement of psyllium, the main ingredient in dietary fiber supplements like Metamucil. Unlike chemical laxatives, psyllium is safe to take long term. Follow the label for dosage directions. OR You can also take 1 teaspoon of sat isabgol (psyllium husks) with 1/2 cup of fresh yogurt 1 hour after dinner.
8. Find Out IBS Triggers: Keep a diary of your IBS symptoms, noting what types of problems you have and how severe they are. In this journal, also jot down any stressful events you face in your day. Occasionally look back at your diary. If you see more IBS symptoms just before airplane flights or meetings with your boss, for instance, there may be a connection. Once you’ve detected situations that seem to trigger IBS symptoms, look for ways like using the breathing technique above, to cope with them better.
9. To create another simple remedy, boil 1 teaspoon of flaxseed in a cupful of water to make a tea, and drink it at bedtime.
10. Enema for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: In certain chronic cases of irritable bowel syndrome, Ayurveda recommends introducing 1/2 to 1 cup of warm sesame oil into the rectum. If you use this enema treatment, try to retain the oil for 5 minutes. Once the colon is well lubricated with sesame oil, irritable bowel syndrome will be controlled. You can do this oil enema once or twice a week, as needed.
11. Watch Your Diet: Eat smaller meals more frequently rather than a couple of large meals each day. Taking in too much food at once can overstimulate your digestive system. If you usually bolt down your meals, go more slowly and pay more attention to chewing your food. Fast eaters often swallow too much air, which turns into bothersome intestinal gas.

Lifestyle Tips To Avoid Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

• Don’t chew gum or candy that contains artificial sweeteners. Among the common sweeteners in these products are sorbitol and mannitol, which can have a laxative effect. They’re very difficult to digest. When bacteria in your colon eventually break down these “non absorbed sugars,” you get gas and diarrhea.
• Irritable bowel syndrome can deplete your intestines of friendly bacteria. Eat a cultured product such as live yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut every day.
• Cut down on caffeine. It can worsen IBS by irritating your intestines.
• Sufficient intake of fiber rich diet may help prevent irritable bowel syndrome. Fiber may not alleviate all symptoms, but according the National Institutes of Health, it may help prevent muscle spasms of the colon. It can also help to ease the constipation associated with IBS.
• Stay away from spicy foods. The capsaicin in hot peppers, for example, makes your large intestine go into spasms, which can cause diarrhea.
• Some foods high in fiber include black beans, kidney beans, green peas, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, raspberries, and pears. Intake of fiber should be gradually increased by only two to three grams per day.
• Minimize fried foods, meats, oils, margarine, dairy foods, and other fatty foods. They cause your colon to contract violently, which can lead to diarrhea and abdominal pain.
• Drink at least six to eight glasses of water each day to keep fiber moving smoothly through your system.
• Whenever possible, get at least 30 minutes of noncompetitive exercise such as walking. Exercise helps relieve stress, releases natural painkilling endorphins, and keeps your body working smoothly.

Caution: Call your doctor if you notice blood in your stool, you start losing weight when you’re not trying to, or your IBS symptoms are so severe that you can’t even leave your home. If you’re over 50 and start to have IBS symptoms, you should get a doctor involved. And if you’ve had IBS for many years but note a change in a previous pattern, make the call. Among other things, the doctor should ask you about prescription or OTC medications to find out whether a change in bowel habits is related to drug side effects.

FAQs

Q. What are treatments for IBS?

• Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Identifying and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms, eating smaller meals more frequently, getting regular exercise, reducing stress, and getting enough sleep.
• Medications: Antispasmodics, antidiarrheals, antidepressants, and other medications may help reduce symptoms.
• Probiotics: These beneficial bacteria help to balance the levels of bacteria in the digestive tract, which can help reduce symptoms.
• Hypnotherapy: Hypnotherapy may help reduce stress, which can help reduce symptoms.
• Herbal Remedies: Herbs such as peppermint oil, fennel, and chamomile may help reduce symptoms.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture may help to reduce abdominal pain, reduce stress, and improve digestion.

Q. What triggers irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms?
IBS symptoms can be triggered by many different factors, including stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, and bacterial overgrowth. Eating certain foods such as dairy, alcohol, and caffeine, or eating a large meal can lead to IBS symptoms. Stress or anxiety can also trigger symptoms, as can hormonal changes during menstruation. Bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine can also cause IBS symptoms.

Q. How long can irritable bowel syndrome last? Does IBS ever go away?
The duration of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can vary from person to person, but it typically lasts for several months or longer. For some people, IBS can be a chronic, lifelong condition.

Q. What are causes of irritable bowel syndrome?

1. Stress: Stress is a major contributor to IBS symptoms. It can affect the colon and how it functions, causing increased contractions and spasms. 
2. Dietary Factors: Eating certain foods can trigger IBS symptoms, such as dairy and gluten. Other foods that can trigger IBS include fatty foods, spicy foods, and high-fiber foods.
3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can affect the digestive system and lead to IBS symptoms.
4. Abnormalities in Digestive System: Abnormalities in the digestive system can affect the muscles in the digestive tract and cause IBS symptoms.
5. Bacterial Overgrowth: Bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine can lead to IBS symptoms.
6. Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics, can cause IBS symptoms.

Q. What is a good remedy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Get regular exercise.
• Reduce stress.
• Eat smaller meals more often.
• Include probiotics and fiber in your diet.
• Avoid foods that trigger your symptoms.
• Try relaxation techniques.
• Try yoga or meditation.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Try over-the-counter medications such as antispasmodics or laxatives.

Q. What is the ayurvedic treatment for IBS (Irritable Bowel syndrome)? How to cure IBS permanently in Ayurveda?
Ayurvedic treatment for IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) typically involves lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and herbal remedies. Lifestyle changes may include reducing stress and practicing yoga or meditation. Dietary modifications may include avoiding food triggers, such as spicy, fried, or processed foods, and incorporating more fiber and probiotics into the diet. Herbal remedies used for IBS may include ginger, fennel, peppermint, and coriander.

Q. Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome fatal?
No, irritable bowel syndrome is not fatal. However, it can cause severe discomfort and may lead to other health problems. People who have IBS should talk to their doctor about proper treatment options.

Q. Can you cure IBS on your own?
It is possible to manage symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) on your own, but it is always recommended to consult a doctor. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress levels, and avoiding certain trigger foods can all help to reduce the symptoms of IBS. Additionally, certain supplements and medications may be prescribed to help manage the condition.

Q. Could green tea help in irritable bowel syndrome?
Green tea may help to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Studies suggest that green tea may help to reduce abdominal pain, bloating and other symptoms associated with IBS. The active ingredients in green tea, such as polyphenols, tannins and caffeine, may help to reduce inflammation in the gut and improve digestion. However, more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of green tea for IBS.

Q. How to cure IBS permanently?
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms. These include prescription medications, lifestyle changes, and dietary modifications. Speak to your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you.

Q. What should one who has irritable bowel syndrome eat?
It is important to eat a balanced diet that is low in fat, high in fiber, and includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoiding foods that are high in sugar, artificial sweeteners, and processed foods can also help reduce symptoms. Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day may also be beneficial. Additionally, drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine and alcohol may help reduce symptoms.

Q. How is irritable bowel syndrome connected to emotions?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is often connected to emotions and stress. Studies have shown that people with IBS are more likely to have higher levels of anxiety and depression, and that their symptoms can be worsened by stress or negative emotions. This is because the digestive system is connected to the nervous system, and stress and emotions can affect the way the gut functions.

Q. What probiotics should be taken in IBS?
The best probiotics for IBS are those that contain a combination of beneficial bacterial strains, such as lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium longum, Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, and Saccharomyces boulardii. Taking a probiotic supplement with a combination of these bacterial strains may help reduce symptoms of IBS, including bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.

Q. What are gas and irritable bowel syndrome?
Gas and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are common digestive disorders that can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea. Gas is caused by swallowed air, certain foods and drinks, and the breakdown of certain undigested foods in the large intestine. IBS is a chronic condition that is believed to be caused by abnormal muscle contractions in the bowel, resulting in changes in the way food moves through the digestive tract. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and/or constipation.

Q. What are the treatments of irritable bowel syndrome?

1. Dietary Changes: Avoiding foods that may trigger IBS symptoms, such as dairy, fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding large meals.
2. Stress Management: Practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises.
3. Medications: Anti-diarrheal medications, antispasmodic medications, and antidepressants.
4. Probiotics: Taking probiotics may help reduce symptoms of IBS.
5. Fiber Supplements: Increasing fiber in your diet can help reduce constipation and diarrhea.
6. Psychological Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy may help reduce stress and ease symptoms.

Q. What natural herbs are good for irritable bowel syndrome?

• Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil is one of the most widely studied and well-known herbs for treating irritable bowel syndrome. It is thought to improve symptoms by relaxing the muscles of the digestive tract and helping to reduce pain.
• Chamomile: Chamomile is a gentle herb that has long been used as a natural remedy for digestive issues. It has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and ease symptoms of IBS.
• Ginger: Ginger is a popular spice with many health benefits. It is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties that can help to reduce cramps and other symptoms of IBS.
• Turmeric: Turmeric is a popular spice with many health benefits. It has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and ease symptoms of IBS.
• Licorice Root: Licorice root is an herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is known to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that may help to reduce cramps and other symptoms of IBS.

Q. Which Ayurvedic herbs are best for IBS?

1. Triphala: Triphala is a combination of three herbs (amalaki, bibhitaki, and haritaki) that are known for their digestive healing properties. It can help to soothe inflammation, reduce gas, and improve digestion.
2. Guduchi: Guduchi is a powerful herb used in Ayurveda to help balance the digestive system. It can help to reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and reduce symptoms of IBS.
3. Shatavari: Shatavari is an herb that has been used in Ayurveda for centuries. It can help to improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and ease symptoms of IBS.
4. Licorice Root: Licorice root is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive healing properties. It can help to reduce symptoms of IBS, including abdominal pain and bloating.
5. Ginger: Ginger is a powerful herb that can help to reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and ease symptoms of IBS.