Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is so common amongst people of all ages; many Doctors consider it second to the Common Cold. IBS is your body’s digestive tract reaction to the strains of daily life, as well as the routine activity of processing your food. The classic symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, cramping and diarrhea.
Here are some tips to help you prevent the discomfort of IBS:
1. Tweak your diet
Particular food can worsen IBS related constipation. Some of these foods include dairy products (especially cheese), refined bread and cereals and drinks such as coffee, alcohol and carbonate drinks. In order to prevent discomfort due to IBS, there are multiple strategies. Gradually boosting your fiber intake by eating products such as rice bran, oats and whole-grain bread will help constipation, as well as consuming products higher in sorbitol such as prune juice and dried plums.
2. Deal with stress
Symptoms related to stress such as bloating and abdominal pain like cramps occur more intensely in people with IBS. Managing with stress is important in order to avoid IBS flare-ups. Deep breathing is an effective method- according to the Mayo Clinic (2011); breathing from the diaphragm rather than the chest relaxes the abdominal muscles.
3. Exercise
Your GP can advise you on the type of exercise that is suitable for you. A minimum of 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as cycling is recommended. The exercise should be strenuous enough to increase both your breathing and heart rates.
4. Lactose Intolerant?
Many people diagnosed with IBS also have an intolerance to either/or milk, sugar and lactose. Your GP may ask you to avoid consuming products containing milk. If some, or all of your IBS symptoms disappear it may be beneficial to stay away from these products for good.
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