Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndome
Have you ever had those days when you just cannot seem to find relief?, and, no, matter what you do, the symptoms just keep on coming. Before you know it, you would have spent half the day in the bathroom, or, you would have had to call in sick to work. After several visits to your doctor, you have finally been informed that you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). As relieved as you are finally to learn what has been happening, you will now need to learn how to master it. The good point about this health issue is that this is not a terminal condition. It has been reported that more women than men will experience Irritable Bowel Syndome. Indeed, approximately, 20 percent of the adult population experience IBS symptoms. IBS is known as the most common chronic health disorder in America, UK, Canada, New Zealand and Australia.
Some of the characteristics of Irritable Bowel Syndrome generally include stomach spasms, cramping, abdominal pain, gas, nausea, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. Nevertheless, these symptoms will not lead to a more serious condition or disease, though they might be very uncomfortable. But it is important to understand that this is a chronic condition that, if not attended to, can control a person’s life. The condition can sometimes make it extremely tough for a person to work, travel short or long distances or even attend certain social events. Also, attacks can happen suddenly, at any time, day or night, and have been known to even sometimes happen while people were sound asleep. Stress, whether mentally or emotionally, can stimulate colon spasms causing an individual’s IBS to flare up. Approximately, 70 percent of people suffering from IBS are not receiving any kind of medical treatment for their symptoms.
There is not a cure for Irritable Bowel Syndome, as it is known to be a brain-gut dysfunction. Although it is incurable, this condition can still be controlled through diet, exercise and lowering your overall stress. Trying to gain control through your diet is a primary step, especially, since your abdomen will be playing a direct role. Because everyone’s body reacts differently to different foods, it might be difficult to establish strict guidelines. However, foods high in fat, insoluble fiber, caffeine, coffee, carbonation or alcohol will be problematic. On the other side, foods with soluble fibers will be the single greatest dietary aid for preventing IBS. Soluble fibers are not found in foods you would typically think of as containing fiber, as soluble fibers will make it possible to stabilize the intestinal contractions while working to soothe and regulate the digestive tract. One of the keys to living with IBS is knowing how to control the symptoms, thus not enabling your symptoms control you.
Important Note: While the information contained in this article is provided in good faith, we always recommend you consult a qualified doctor or physician. Your doctor can provide you professional advice for your particular situation.
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