Diseases of the digestive tracts are way too common to be ignored as unimportant. One of the most common and annoying problems of the digestive tract is irritable bowel syndrome.
IBS affects the gastrointestinal tract and causes a lot of pain, discomfort, gas, diarrhoea and bloating. It’s a huge relief to know that irritable bowel syndrome does not cause any damage to the colon and other digestive organs. It is only the embarrassment that causes a lot of distress to the patient.
The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can vary greatly. For some there are long gaps when they do not experience any symptom at all and for others there are flare ups that are sudden and without the presence of any stimulant. IBS unfortunately does not have a cure, but a change in diet can facilitate relief and control the symptoms. Certain foods are known to aggravate irritable bowel syndrome.
While mild cases of irritable bowel syndrome almost go unnoticed, major flare ups and severe cases can be very embarrassing as well as very disabling. When you have symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, the only way to confirm that it is IBS is by ruling out other digestive disorders through various tests. If you suffer from IBS, here are some home remedies that can be tried for major relief.
Home Remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
1. Peppermint Oil Supplements Can Control Irritable Bowel Syndrome
For severe case of IBS, anything that offers some control provides a huge relief! Peppermint oil, fortunately can offer great solace. Taking supplements of peppermint oil two times a day between your meals will prevent flatulence and also pain associated with IBS. You may also take peppermint tea after your meals to improve digestion. However, if you suffer from acid reflux, avoid consuming peppermint tea.
2. Importance Of Probiotics In Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Probiotics, as we know can encourage the growth of good bacteria in the stomach, thereby reducing the presence of unhealthy bacteria and facilitating proper digestion of food. For those suffering from IBS, it is a good practice to take yoghurt everyday to prevent indigestion and associated symptoms.
3. Aloe Vera Juice For IBS
Taking a quarter cup of aloe vera juice can be abundantly beneficial for patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. Aloe vera being a healing agent will help in healing the digestive tract and also soothes it to give great relief for IBS sufferers.
4. Take Gentian Root For Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Gentian root must be taken before the meal so that digestion can take place well, preventing attacks of IBS. For getting best results consume 300 mg of gentian root at least 15 minutes before you eat.
5. Increase Fibre To Treat Constipation Due To IBS
Constipation is a common symptom associated with irritable bowel. In order to regulate the free movement of bowels, you must ensure that a daily diet of fruits, whole grains and vegetables are included. However, ensure that fiber is introduced slowly to prevent flare ups of IBS.
6. Drink Water To Prevent IBS
Drinking plenty of water is one way to keep the constipation under control. Water will keep the body well hydrated and ensures that the stools are loose enough to prevent you from exerting pressure and cause pain. Drink at least 2 liters of water to keep the bowels loose and the body hydrated.
7. A Stress Free Life To Prevent IBS
Stress is a major factor that can aggravate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. A stress free life is therefore very essential for treating the problem. For preventing stress and anxiety, you can practice yoga, meditation, exercise or engage in some de stressing activity like listening to music, spending time on some hobbies etc. Herbal medications that can enhance the mood like chamomile teas and peppermint can be used as well for controlling stress.
8. Diet Control Is Important For Irritable Bowel Syndrome
It is very essential to identify the foods that can aggravate irritable bowel syndrome and keep away from them as a rule. Foods that are high in fat content, carbonated and caffeinated drinks, beverages and chocolates belong to the list of foods that can trigger IBS. Dairy products too are known to worsen the symptoms and hence must be avoided as much as possible.
9. Importance of Avoiding Bigger Meals to Prevent IBS
Bigger meals will pose the risk of taking longer time to digest and create symptoms like pain in the abdomen and loose stools. Smaller meals are easier to digest and hence you must break your meals into 5 or six sessions instead of 3 solid meals a day. This will help in controlling the symptoms to a great extent.
10. Garlic For Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Garlic helps in cleaning the digestive system by removing parasites and mucous from the colon. It also prevents the formation of gas. Add garlic in your diet or take 3-4 garlic cloves every day to prevent infections of the stomach and also to control the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
11. Fennel, A Tasty Herb That Can Treat IBS
A great treatment option for kids who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. Fennel is capable of clearing stomach upsets and also helps digestion. Fennel can be given safely to kids and infants for treating indigestion and other stomach ailments.
12. Herbal Teas For Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Herbal teas have wonderful benefits that have a soothing and relaxing effect on the body. Chamomile and Peppermint tea can be had frequently in order to prevent IBS attacks that are related to stress. Take a tablespoon of chamomile or peppermint and steep it in two cups of water for 15 minutes. Make sure to keep the lid covered to prevent the aroma from escaping. Tea can be made by adding both these herbs for a long lasting effect.
For IBS which are related to indigestion, marshmallows are good. One tablespoon of marshmallows has to be boiled with water for about 40 minutes and consumed every day. This will prevent digestive disorders and resultant IBS.
Slippery elm is another herb that can be added into other juices and beverages in order to prevent irritation in the mucous membranes and facilitate relief from irritable bowel syndrome.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.