Many doctors believe Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is caused by today's high-paced, stressful lifestyles, however there are things you can do to relieve the cramps, bloating, nausea, and alternating bouts of diarrhoea and constipation that accompany IBS.
Eat plenty of fiber
Foods rich in dietary fiber can help relieve both constipation and diarrhoea.
The kind of fiber you eat can be important so focus on wheat bran which has a better tendency to hold water than, say, apples or carrots.
This makes it very helpful for preventing diarrhoea.
Eat clever
Foods such as beans and cabbage are known to cause gas and may cause problems for IBS sufferers.
Eating fat may also be a problem as it causes strong colonic contractions.
Eat slowly
Eating slowly may help prevent abnormal colon contractions from starting.
Take some exercise
Walking, swimming, biking or other activities can all help get your bowels moving and prevent constipation, a problem associated with IBS.
Avoid Stress
As with most allergic reactions, stress can play a major part in IBS, so ensure you are relaxed when eating and remember to chew!
Avoid food triggers
Avoid the common food triggers of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, such as wheat, dairy, sugar, soya, eggs, citrus fruits, nuts and sesame seeds.
Re-introduce them one at a time, watching for a reaction.
Avoid sugar
Avoid refined carbohydrates and sugar, as these feed pathogenic bacteria.
No Fluids
Don't drink fluids with meals, as these can dilute the digestive juices.
Don't overload
Never overeat - leave the table 75% full.
Fibre, fibre
Eat a high fibre diet and drink plenty of water between meals.