"GUTTA" LOVE IBS AWARENESS MONTH

In the world of gut health, Irritable Bowel Syndrome sufferers are often looking for help to aid symptom discomforts.  In honor of April being IBS Awareness Month, let’s talk about that “gut” feeling and some possible aids to send your gut some love.

The facts…
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is described as belly discomfort or pain and may include trouble maintaining regular bowel movements.  This condition causes the digestive system to be hypersensitive and to over-react to mild stimulation which may result in either bowel muscle spasms or inconsistent muscle movement.  Currently, it is not clear what causes IBS though there are a few theories involving hormones, stress, other illnesses, or diet.  Irritable Bowel Syndrome affects people of all ages.

Here are some hints for these sufferers --

Foods to avoid…
Chocolate, citrus fruits, spicy foods, sugar-free gum & candy, dairy, and alcohol/caffeine all can adversely affect the digestive system for those suffering from IBS.

Natural Aids…

  • Chamomile Tea is known to calm and relax the digestive system.*
  • Dietary Fiber from a source like Psyllium Husk can help add bulk to your stool to relieve diarrhea.  It will also help maintain regularity for those with occasional constipation.*
  • Ginger Tea has been used to relieve discomfort, to improve digestion and absorption of food and to prevent flatulence.*
  • Peppermint Oil is thought of as an anti-spasmodic which also may help with reducing inflammation and calming an upset stomach.*   
  • Prebiotics are non-digestible carbohydrates that feed the good bacteria in your gut.* Prebiotics can be found in supplement form or in healthy foods such as garlic, onions, bananas, and raw asparagus.
  • Probiotics are living organisms that live naturally in our bodies, but similar microorganisms can be found in supplements or fermented foods like yogurt and kefir.  Probiotics may help regulate bowel function and immune function.*


*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Written By:  HealthPlus Inc. 

​SOURCES:
http://www.aboutibs.org/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3921083/http://www.health.com/ibs/natural-remedies-for-ibs
https://nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics/introduction.htm
http://www.naturalnews.com/031622_IBS_natural_solutions.html
http://www.webmd.com/ibs/guide/digestive-diseases-irritable-bowel-syndrome#1