Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS, also known as spastic colon, mucous colitis, and nervous bowel, affects 15% to 20% of the adult population. It afflicts twice as many women as men, usually developing in late adolescence or early adulthood. The condition is characterized by intermittent periods of constipation or diarrhea, often accompanied by bloating or abdominal pain.
Helpful Supplements
- PEPPERMINT OIL CAPSULES (enteric-coated) are used to calm intestinal spasms and other IBS symptoms; enteric coating ensures that the oil is released in the intestines rather than the stomach. One caution: Peppermint oil is not recommended for anyone with a hiatal hernia, as it may aggravate the condition.
- DIGESTIVE ENZYMES can help with gas and bloating symptoms or feeling over-full after eating. Enzymes support the natural work of the pancreas secretions in processing food.
- PROBIOTICS, or the “beneficial” bacteria that normally inhabits the digestive tract; they help digest food and also fortify the body against digestive disorders by stopping the harmful bacteria that cause disease from growing uncurbed. It’s especially important to take after a round of antibiotics. You can enhance the effect of the probiotics by taking them in combination with FOS (fructo-oligosaccharides) which feeds the friendly bacteria.
- Some people find that a high fiber diet relieves their symptoms, while others discover that it makes things worse. Some people do not tolerate high fiber in beans or react to the natural chemicals in wheat bran. Add high-fiber foods to your diet slowly to minimize bloating and gas. High-fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans.
