Although people don't talk about it much, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a widespread disorder that affects about 50 million Americans. However, for an illness with such a high incidence rate, it receives very little discussion and virtually no media attention.
The symptoms of IBS are varied and can involve any number and combination of the following: Diarrhea, intestinal cramping/spasming, constipation, gas/flatulence, heartburn, indigestion, pain upon eating or defecating, hemorrhoids, or anal fissures (small tears in the anus often caused by frequent bowel movements, or, excessive straining and hard stools). Depending on the severity, combination, and frequency of symptoms, IBS can be a minor annoyance, or, something that really interferes with your quality of life. Unfortunately, the drug treatment protocols for IBS are not very effective in the long-term and some of them have side-effects that are often worse than the original symptoms.
Several natural approaches to relieve Irritable Bowel Syndrome are: increase dietary fiber, elimination of food allergies and intolerances, the use of botanicals and the treatment of stress. An amino acid called L-Glutamine is the best remedy for diarrhea and it works very quickly (within 2-3 days usually). It's virtually tasteless and dissolves easily in water. Psyllium should be added to the diet gradually by beginning with a few teaspoons and slowly increasing the dosage over a week's time. Taken with at least eight glasses of water a day, psyllium can help with the symptoms of constipation or diarrhea. Discontinue use if either condition worsens.
Enteric coated Peppermint Oil reduces intestinal spasm and thus can help reduce pain from Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Other herbs that may help include goldenseal, which may help promote the healing of intestinal mucosa, and slippery elm or marshmallow, which are soothing. Chamomile is known to soothe the digestive tract as an anti-spasmotic. While no human studies have been performed on this supplement in relation to IBS, it has been proven to reduce irritation and cramping in animals. Chamomile can be taken as a tea, or as a capsule. Probiotics are natural supplements that promote the growth of healthy bacteria that aid digestion. Taking probiotics may help IBS sufferers who can pinpoint the start of their problems on a recent case of food poisoning or gastroenteritis.
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