How to Avoid Irritable Bowel Syndrome

By eHow Health Editor

Rate: (3 Ratings)

35 million Americans suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the second leading cause of absenteeism from work. (The common cold is number one.) IBS has no cure, but you can make lifestyle modifications to reduce symptoms in the following ways.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

  • Journals
  • Relaxation Tapes
  • Yoga Video
  • low-fat, high-fiber diet

Step1
Eat high-fiber, low-fat foods in small frequent meals throughout the day.
Step2
Strive for six daily meals (200-300 calories each) containing whole-grain breads, pasta and rice to keep the colon mildly distended and better functioning.
Step3
Avoid food, beverages and medications that might irritate your colon, such as caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, laxatives and high-fiber supplements.
Step4
Curb your stress. Doctors speculate that emotional conflict is the biggest trigger mechanism for IBS symptoms. Learn how not to argue with your family over every little infraction.
Step5
Lighten your workload or work fewer hours. Don't be a perfectionist. Listen to relaxation tapes. Try yoga. Keep a journal to record thoughts and feelings.
Step6
Exercise moderately and regularly. A fit body is more apt to have a fit colon. Don't exercise too strenuously - you'll aggravate the colon. Opt for swimming, brisk walking or bicycling.
Step7
Monitor the medications you take and eliminate those that aren't absolutely necessary. Aspirin, ibuprofen and even vitamin C tablets can irritate your GI mucosa. Take medicines with meals.
Step8
Keep those hormones in check if you're a woman. Doctors speculate that IBS symptoms are sometimes aggrivated by reproductive hormones. If you suffer from PMS, try to treat PMS symptoms as a way of decreasing your IBS symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

  • For more information on IBS, call the International Foundation For Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders at (414) 964-1799.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other healthcare professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 A cup of hot water with honey always alleviates the pain for me. It works every time! Just dissolve a small amount of honey in half a cup of boiling water and drink it while still hot.

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eHow Article:  How to Avoid Irritable Bowel Syndrome

eHow Health Editor

eHow Health Editor

Category: Health

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