Alternative Medicine for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Medical experts consider irritable bowel syndrome a functional disorder. Basically, this term means that although there are real and unpleasant symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome, experts don't know what causes it. Consequently, they are only able to treat the symptoms as they appear. Prescription drugs are often used as part of treatment, but there are also several alternative therapies available that may help to lessen the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

According to Bill Gottlieb, author of Alternative Cures, peppermint is believed to have a relaxing effect on the entire digestive system. Brew and drink 3 or more cups of peppermint tea to relieve intestinal spasm related to irritable bowel syndrome.

Magnesium Glycinate

Magnesium glycinate is a mineral that's believed to tone and relax intestinal tract muscles and help prevent intestinal spasm. This supplement can be found at most pharmacies and health food stores. Follow the instructions on the bottle.

Hydrolized Fish Protein

Hydrolized fish protein is a supplement that's believed to heal intestinal walls that have been damaged by chemicals, stress and other factors. Bill Gottlieb recommends taking two hydrolized fish protein tables before each meal to control the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

High Fiber

Increase the fiber in your diet by eating whole grains--especially whole wheat, whole bran or psyllium. Adding fiber to your diet will help to make stools more firm and bulky, reducing some symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. According to Bill Gottlieb, people with irritable bowel syndrome should eat 20g to 35g of fiber every day. Also, in order for a high-fiber diet to be effective, you must drink at least eight 8oz. glasses of water each day.
Be sure to add fiber to your diet gradually, as it may cause discomfort. Start by eating 1/4 cup high-fiber cereal for the first 7 to10 days, then increase to 1/2 cup per day. After 2 to 3 weeks, your body should become accustomed to the change and any possible discomfort should stop.

Food Diary

Because each individual is different, try keeping a food diary. Keep track of what you eat on what day at one time. Record how you feel when you eat. For example, "stressed," "rushed" or "relaxed" will also help determine how stress effects your symptoms. Lastly, record your symptoms, what day and time they occur and their severity. Keep the diary religiously for at least 2 weeks to help determine food patterns and categories that are problematic and can be eliminated from the diet.

Other Suggestions

Saturated fats contribute to intestinal spasms. A low-fat diet may lessen these. Avoid gas-producing foods such as beans, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and asparagus. Caffeine can trigger episodes of irritable bowel syndrome. Try to eliminate it from your diet--cigarettes, too. Avoid alcohol, especially beer, as it aggravates symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Regular exercise, especially jogging and yoga, increases bowel muscle tone and helps regulate bowel movements.

Warning

If you have blood in your stool, contact your health care professional immediately. If you experience diarrhea and bloating related to irritable bowel syndrome for over 2 weeks, contact your health care professional. Talk to your health care professional before using these therapies as part of your treatment.

References

• The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies; Ed. Prevention; 2002
• Alternative Cures; Bill Gottlieb; 2000