I.B.S.

a naturopathic prescription for the signs and symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Perhaps due to the western diet, and stressful living conditions, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (I.B.S.) is quite a common problem.
• Learn to recognise trigger foods that can cause the symptoms. Then learn to work out how much you can consume before the trigger occurs (as in any food sensitivity). Some people know that some foods need to be avoided completely. Common trigger foods are: dairy products, grains such as wheat and corn, chocolate, coffee, onions, soy, corn, garlic, eggs, nuts, citrus fruits, etc.
• Avoid these foods: those with high sugar, high fat, and low fiber. See the effect of taking coffee and alcohol out of your diet.
• If you get a lot of gas, reduce your intake of cabbage, beans, apples, grapes, raisins, lentils and legumes. Basil tea helps.
• If you like your beans (a wonderful fiber and protein food), soak them in water overnight, and throw out the water before cooking them in fresh water.
• Peppermint oil capsules taken 15-30 minutes before a meal can help.
• Artifical sweeteners (mannitol, xylitol, sorbitol) are implicated with gas, and bowel problems.
• Select a supplement from the following recommendations for your country (clicking the hyperlink refers you to a suitable supplier). Look for products with the following ingredients: chamomile, cramp bark, valerian, peppermint, dietary fiber (soluble and insoluble), psyllium seed, isphagula, slippery elm powder, dandelion root, glutamine, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, oligosaccharrides, homoeopathic Nux vomica.

If the IBS persists, you need to make an appointment to consult a professional health practitioner.

Naturopaths consider WHY a person has IBS and then treat accordingly.

David Wilson, Naturopath

See also Food intolerance or Constipation

Keep me informed about any news concerning IBS.