Natural remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

One in every 5 Americans suffer with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Luckily, IBS is not fatal to a persons overall health but it can be very incontinent and uncomfortable. Symptoms of IBS are bloating, cramping, constipation, abdominal pain, heartburn and diarrhea. It is difficult for scientists to directly identify exactly how IBS occurs but they do believe that certain people might have slight intolerances towards certain foods that encourage IBS. IBS is a functional disorder not a disorder with a structural underlying problem.

IBS is one of the most commonly seen problems by doctors. The most effective treatment seems to be peppermint oil and fiber according to a research published in the British Medical Journal several years ago.

Peppermint oil is derived from the peppermint plant and can be taken in the form of a tea, oil or a capsule. It is important to talk with a health professional to determine the correct quantities. This is an inexpensive, easy and proven effective treatment for IBS.

Another effective treatment for IBS is fiber. Fiber can be consumed through food or a capsule. There are two types of fiber insoluble and soluble. Soluble fiber is often better for people who are suffering with IBS. Soluble fiber is found in foods such as beans, oats, berries, lentils whereas insoluble fiber is in foods such as wheat bran, prunes and plums. Obviously, each individual is different so you will only know what fibers help through trial and error.

To help reduce IBS symptoms exercise and hydration are always great options to help the body health itself and regulate the bowels. Also, for those experiencing a lot of abdominal pain a hot pack or massage can be very reliving and help reduce the spike of the pain caused by IBS.