Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Life can be pretty miserable if you suffer with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is a common digestive disorder characterised by
symptoms caused by irritability and irregularity in the movement of both the small and the large intestines.
IBS occurs more often in women than in men, and it usually begins around age 20. You may actually suffer mild IBS symptoms for
years before having an acute attack. The symptoms mimic those of more serious gastrointestinal, hormonal, and reproductive
diseases and vary not only from person to person but in the same person from week to week. That makes diagnosis difficult and an
effective medical treatment elusive.
Symptoms include:
- Diarrhoea or constipation, or alternate bouts of each
- Abdominal pain, cramping, gas and bloating, mucus-covered stools
- Nausea, especially after eating
- Headaches and fatigue, depression or anxiety
- The urge to have another bowel movement after you've just had one
The syndrome can be caused by any number of potential allergens and it is usually influenced by emotions such as nervousness,
anxiety, guilt, depression, frustration, or anger.
Whilst medications can be prescribed to help control bowel spasms and to ease symptoms, getting to the root cause is key. Natural
Allergy Therapy will identify the allergens and desensitisation will allow the body to be able to deal with them normally again.
Self-help for IBS Sufferers
Stress relief:
Stress is a major component of IBS so identify any areas of stress in your life. Adopt more effective time management and
allow time for relaxation. Taking measures to reduce stress are an important part of natural management. Regular exercise
(which can also relieve constipation), abdominal breathing techniques, therapeutic massage, meditation and yoga (which can
also relieve pain and other symptoms) are all effective methods when used regularly.
Replacing good bacteria:
There are over 400 species of microorganisms in the human digestive tract and the balance between beneficial bacteria and
potentially harmful bacteria is important. Many people with irritable bowel syndrome have an imbalance in their normal
intestinal bacteria, with an overgrowth of bad bacteria. This can be as a result of stress and emotional upset in life and
why it is so important to deal with stressors.
Probiotics are live microbial organisms that are naturally present in the digestive tract and vagina. Sometimes referred to
as "friendly" bacteria, probiotics help to suppress the growth of potentially harmful bacteria, improve immune function,
enhance the protective barrier of the digestive tract, and help to produce vitamin K. To make a real difference, a good
quality probiotic should be taken such as Protexin Balance which is available to purchase.
Fluids:
Drink two litres of water daily - taken away from meals and sipped slowly to avoid stress on the kidneys. For variety
drink diluted fruit juices, organic vegetables juices and herbal teas.
Reduce or cut out smoking:
If smoking is an issue, then try to reduce and eventually break this habit as it can have a negative effect on
digestive function. If you would like to give up smoking but don't think you can do it on your own, I can help you using
EFT tapping, a new technique that combines ancient acupressure with modern psychotherapy that has fantastic results in
helping people give up addictions - just ask for more details.
Other:
Eat small regular meals and chew thoroughly to relieve any strain on the digestive system.
Heat applications such as heating pads, water bottles and baths can alleviate spasms and cramping.
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