Tips for Dealing with IBS

Friday, June 1, 2012 by Health Tips

Daily Health Tips update for June 1:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) sufferers deal with unpleasant symptoms, including bloating, cramping, constipation, gas and diarrhea, which limit their ability to travel, go out to eat or just be comfortable wherever they are. Experts are not sure what causes IBS, but may people notice a correlation between their diet and these symptoms. The good news: there are a few basic tips to help deal with IBS.

  • Get more fiber. It may seem scary, but it’s crucial for a healthy GI tract. Increase it slowly, so your system can adjust. Look for increased fiber from fruit and vegetable sources as well as gluten free grains.
  • Keep track of what you eat and be informed. This can help you eliminate triggers, such as sugar and dairy, from your diet. Once you know those triggers, you can ask about ingredients in entrees before you place an order at a restaurant.
  • Make sure you have friendly bacteria in your gut. Probiotics, such as Bifidobacerium infantis and other strains, help keep a healthy balance of good bacteria in your intestines.
  • Add some heat with an old-fashioned heating pad. Pain relief and heat go together, so curl up with a hot water bottle or heating pad to help ease symptoms. Heat patches are available to wear under clothing, so this pain relief method is totally portable.

Source:  Mayo Clinic


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