Monday, November 16, 2009

Diarrhea or Constipation? Treat IBS Naturally

By John Weller

IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, is a very common medical problem. Although millions of people suffer from it in the United States, there is no effective medication to treat IBS. This is why many people turn to natural treatments for IBS.

IBS is characterized by chronic gastrointestinal distress, which includes chronic constipation, persistent diarrhea, bloating, gas, pain, and combinations of these symptoms. Unlike inflammatory bowel diseases, IBS does not lead to intestinal ulcers and has not shown to increase the risks of colon cancer.

Although doctors are still unsure about the causes of IBS, diet, stress, genes, and other personal traits could all contribute to the development of this condition. For this reason, IBS is very much a part of one's life, whether the person likes it or not.

Although irritable bowel syndrome is not life-threatening, it is a troublesome condition. People who suffer from IBS often have to coordinate their professional and social lives accordingly. Irregularity in their bowel movements often leads to unpredictable pain, gas, or urges to go to the bathroom during stressful and important situations.

IBS may be incurable, but its symptoms can be treated. While sudden symptoms can be treated with common OTC drugs, chronic use of them should be avoided as they could lead to dependency. The best way to manage the symptoms is through natural treatments.

Natural treatments for IBS usually involve dietary controls and herbs. Some IBS patients are more sensitive to particular food group, such as dairy, fructose, or wheat (gluten). The patient can use trials and errors method to cut certain foods out until the symptoms diminish. Soluble fiber found in bananas, oatmeal, and other produce helps with constipation and diarrhea. However, fiber does not help with bloating and abdominal pain.

Herbal supplements are perhaps the most effective natural remedies for IBS. For instance, herbal tea, garlic, and peppermint oil, all show therapeutic effects for IBS. Supplements derived from aloe vera are even more promising candidates as they eliminate symptoms in majority of the users. - 14130

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