Dietary Tips For Irritable Bowel Syndrome Relief

It happens to everyone from time to time, in fact it’s one of the largest diet-related chronic health disorders, but you might not know it, because it happens behind closed doors.

If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, you are probably never far from a bathroom, and can’t remember the last time you could sit through an entire movie. Fortunately, you have more control over your symptoms than you think.

When it comes down to it, your digestive system is one of your most primal ways of interacting with the world. It has evolved with us as organisms not only to make food available for physical energy, but also to guide us through our dangerous worlds. This is where the “follow your gut” idea comes from, and when we fail to listen, we pay the price, both physically and mentally.

Since the major symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are experienced in the large intestine, it is logical to think that the treatment should be focused here as well. However, due to the physical sensitivities of the colon, aggressive remedies such as colon cleanses, laxatives, psyllium, and insoluble fiber supplements can make IBS symptoms worse, not better.

Oftentimes, a gentler approach can be more effective, and feel better in the long run. When we overload our digestive systems with irritants and pile on the stress of emotional burdens, it can be put on high alert. Continued abuse of the delicate internal balance of one of the body’s most instinctual systems can result in chronic dysfunction otherwise known as IBS.

Creating a lifestyle that supports proper nutrition and digestion, is crucial to relieving the symptoms of IBS. Finding a diet that both supports and soothes your system while promoting nurturing eating habits can be the key to staying regular and probably a whole less irritable on all levels.

Experiment with Fiber

Most people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome usually have alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea. This can be extremely frustrating as it seems that you are fighting two different sets of issues. It’s important to know what kinds of fiber can help which symptoms, and give your body what it needs to regain balance.

Constipation Regulators
* Baked potatoes with skin
* Steamed broccoli
* Cooked cabbage
* Raw apples
* Dried plums
* Beans or lentils

Diarrhea Soothers
* Brown rice
* Mashed potatoes,
* Pureed root vegetables
* Stewed pears or apples
* Bananas

If you are suffering from either constipation or diarrhea, adding more fiber can be beneficial, but too much can increase symptoms rather than relieve them. It’s important to introduce small amounts of fiber and listen to what your body needs, increasing or maintaining fiber intake on an as needed basis.

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