Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that affects the bowels, specifically the large intestine, or colon. According to the Irritable Bowel Syndrome Self Help and Support Group, up to 20 percent of the United States population suffers from IBS, with 70 percent of those being women. So what is IBS? Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that affects the large intestine. It is not progressive, meaning that it will not get worse, does not cause inflammation or damage to tissues, and it does not lead to other diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s Disease or cancer.
Although symptoms vary in severity and between individuals, there are some similar signs to look for with IBS. Symptoms may include pain or cramping in the abdomen, bloating, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, and possibly mucus in the stool. Although both diarrhea and constipation may occur, one generally occurs more frequently than the other. Symptoms may increase with certain foods, stress, or with hormonal changes in the body.
The cause or causes of IBS are not 100% certain. Some believe it might be due to problems with the nerves or colon itself. Serotonin levels may be low or there may not be a proper balance of essential bacteria in the colon, both of which can affect the way the digestive system works. There are no specific tests for IBS, but the condition can be diagnosed by eliminating other medical conditions as causing symptoms.
While there is at present no cure for IBS, there are some effective ways to relieve the symptoms. IBS treatments may include supplements, medication, IBS diet, counseling, exercise, and stress-reduction techniques. Some alternative medicine therapies, such as herbal remedies and acupuncture may be effective in treating IBS symptoms as well.
Your physician may recommend treatment with fiber supplements, probiotics, anti-diarrheal medicines, antidepressants, antibiotics, or other medications that might be helpful to improve IBS symptoms as necessary.
As each individual is different when it comes to IBS, so are dietary recommendations. An appropriate change in diet would address personal needs, such as avoiding foods that trigger IBS flare-ups, avoiding certain carbohydrates, increasing fiber intake, avoiding gluten, and other measures approved by a physician or a dietitian that specializes in helping those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome.
Reducing stress levels has been shown to reduce the effects of pain and cramping for those who suffer with IBS. Reducing stress can be as simple as writing about stressful events, enjoying activities, exercising, or meditating.
In addition to the above treatment options, Medical Meals is proud to offer a food product that is clinically tested and FDA approved for the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.