Irritable Bowel Syndrome Sufferers Can Find Natural Relief

The holidays are a tough time for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) sufferers in Burnsville, MN. The rich foods and stress can cause pain and bloating. Each year in America, IBS patients make more than two million visits to the doctor. The knee-jerk reaction of most physicians is to whip out prescriptions for anti-diarrheal, antispasmodics, and even antidepressants. However, there are a number of safe, natural, and effective chiropractic treatments for this very common condition.

Supplement Solutions

A top supplement recommendations for IBS is a glutamine. The most prevalent amino acid in the body, glutamine is renowned for its healing properties in the gut. Glutamine is an inexpensive and easy way to protect your gastrointestinal (GI) tract and bolster overall digestive health.

Chronic stress and anxiety can also exacerbate symptoms of IBS, and that’s where another amino acid—gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)—comes in.

In addition to these amino acids, probiotics are recommended for IBS. Clinical studies show that probiotic supplements help normalize the bacterial makeup of the intestinal tract, alleviating bloating, constipation, diarrhea and other GI disturbances that often accompany this disorder.

Suggested doses are glutamine, 2–3 g daily; and GABA, 750 mg 1–3 times per day as needed. Because amino acids are best absorbed on an empty stomach, you should take them 30 minutes before or two hours after meals.

Diet Dos and Don’ts

Diet can certainly affect the severity of IBS. Sufferers should try eliminating common trigger foods one at a time to see if your symptoms improve. The usual suspects include caffeine, alcohol, sugar substitutes, dairy products, corn, citrus foods, eggs, and peanuts.

Incorporating more fiber (at least 30 g) into your daily diet by eating more vegetables, legumes, and fruits is a good start, but adding a fiber supplement and/or ¼-cup freshly ground flaxseed may also be prudent. Also, try cutting back on excess sugars and starches. They’re a favorite food of the bacteria that reside in the gut, which is why they cause gas and bloating.

Avoiding Stress

Stress anxiety and depression can amplify symptoms for most IBS sufferers. Finding a way to reduce the stress effects on their symptoms is key.

Many IBS sufferers seek chiropractic care for other conditions. One study showed IBS patients had a 40-to-80-percent higher chance of suffering from migraines, fibromyalgia, and depression.

Spinal manipulation may improve symptoms, and have a positive effect on the nerves connected to the intestinal tract. In addition to treating other conditions, patients report overall stress reduction.

Don’t let the holidays get you down this year. If you are an IBS sufferer, consider taking a natural holistic approach to healthier living.