Lifestyle Tips to Manage IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that affects the large intestine. It is not life-threatening but can cause discomfort and pain and disrupt your ability to enjoy life. Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome may include diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both. Unfortunately, researchers have not found a cause for it. But, it may result from a combination of factors, including stress, food allergies (such as to milk or gluten), infections, tension in the muscles around the abdomen and problems in how the body processes certain carbohydrates. While there is no one specific treatment for IBS, here are some lifestyle tips for managing the symptoms:

1. Low FODMAP diet

This disorder results from the malabsorption of some carbohydrates found in vegetables and certain foods. The low fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAP) diet promotes a low glycemic diet that reduces the number of carbohydrates consumed while increasing the consumption of dietary fiber. This diet is helpful in improving symptoms and decreasing medical costs associated with irritable bowel syndrome.

2. Take probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria that are necessary for a healthy digestive system. Probiotics can improve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by supporting the gut microbiota. A recent study by The University of Auckland in collaboration with Auckland Hospital showed that good-quality probiotics taken daily for 10 weeks improved symptoms of the condition, including bloating and abdominal pain, without negatively impacting bowel habits.

3. Avoid high-fat meals

Eating high-fat meals can result in discomfort and pain. This is because foods with saturated fats and trans fats increase the number of harmful bile acids secreted into the intestine, which can cause inflammation and food allergies. These two fatty acids can also affect the balance of good and bad bacteria in your intestines. In addition, high-fat foods may increase symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by irritating the intestine.

4. Try an elimination diet

An elimination diet is a test to determine which foods trigger your symptoms. Elimination diets are generally short-term and designed to determine what triggers your irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Often, you will be encouraged to remove a certain type of food from your diet for an extended period and then slowly add it back into your diet. If the food causes a reaction in you, it could be causing a reaction in other foods. You may be instructed to take a probiotic, fiber supplement, and medication to control the reaction. If the food doesn’t cause a reaction, you are then encouraged to add it to your diet.

5. Consume dietary fiber

Dietary fiber is the indigestible part of plants, vegetables, and grains. Fiber helps reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by helping food move through your digestive system. Dietary fiber also improves the symptoms by helping to increase your sense of fullness. When you eat foods high in dietary fiber (such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains), you feel fuller longer because they take longer to digest and absorb. Dietary fiber may also help relieve digestive issues by helping to form a healthy lining of the colon.

Latest stories

Lifestyle Habits for Lower Cholesterol

If you're looking for ways to lower your cholesterol,...

Human Foods That are Safe for Pets

Owning a pet can bring unconditional love and companionship...

Common Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that is marked by significant...

Simple, Easy Lawn Care Tips

A beautiful, healthy lawn can make your home look...