Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects the digestive system. It belongs to a group of disorders that are marked by issues with communications between the gut and brain. The most common symptoms of IBS include:
- Excess gas.
- Abdominal cramps.
Though this condition can be uncomfortable, painful, and embarrassing, there are strategies to manage it. From taking a cleanse for bloating and gas to changing your diet, here are 5 strategies to manage Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Increase Physical Activity and Alter Diet
Diet and exercise play a huge role in our overall health. Increasing exercise can help to lower stress, which has a direct effect on irritable bowel symptoms. It also has the ability to improve bowel function and reduce bloating. Increasing your level of exercise can be a simple as going for a brisk walk or performing yoga.
What we put into our bodies is imperative when it comes to gastrointestinal disorders, and those who have them are more likely to experience food sensitivities. It is recommended that IBS sufferers make the following dietary alterations to improve symptoms:
- Increase their fiber intake through leafy greens, fruits, and nuts.
- Increase their water intake.
- Limit dairy and caffeine.
- Keep track of foods that may inflame symptoms.
Manage Stress and Anxiety
Mental and physical health are closely intertwined. This is even more evident in those with IBS. Being in an active state of emotional distress can inflame symptoms. Utilizing coping skills, psychotherapies, and prescription medications can help reduce digestive symptoms.
Use a Herbal Detox and OTC Medication
One of the main problems with IBS is that it’s much more difficult for the colon to rid itself of toxins due to irregular bowel movements. Some researchers also suggest that those with IBS have more bacteria in their colons than those without IBS. A buildup of these toxins can worsen symptoms and negatively impact other functions of the body. This is why detoxes are often recommended as a management tool for this disorder. Products like Detoxify Xxtra Clean gently move through the body, pushing out toxins and rejuvenating the digestive system with natural ingredients. Detoxifying your system can improve mental health as well as physical health. They accomplish this by boosting mood, increasing energy, and removing harmful bacteria. Detoxes are typically used to help improve symptoms over time.
For more immediate relief, over-the-counter medications are recommended. Antiacids, Tums, and Pepto Bismol can help ease gas and stomach cramps. The benefit of over-the-counter medications are that they are generally inexpensive and easy to obtain. They also don’t tend to have too many negative effects with prolonged use.
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for irritable bowel syndrome. Those with the disorder are left to deal with the symptoms. When the digestive system is not functioning properly, it can throw the rest of the body into disarray. Through altering lifestyles, managing mental and physical health, and performing mega clean detox, those suffering with IBS can get some control over their digestive symptoms and experience relief.
