Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – also called Spastic Colon– refers to a common bowel disorder characterized by abdominal pain and cramping, intestinal gas and bloating, as well as changes in bowel movements without a known reason. Diarrhoea or constipation are primary symptoms – in some cases, these symptoms alternate, while in others one is more dominant.
The causes of IBS are not well understood but are likely multiple, including biological, social and psychological factors. Stress and Infection are the most common triggers.
Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome can get, well, ‘irritating’. It may get embarrassing and uncomfortable when you struggle for a prolonged time, Consider these natural ways to get some relief:
Eat Yogurt
Diarrhoea drains away the good bacteria that help against harmful bacteria. In the case of IBS, It is recommended to eat plenty of yoghurt with active bacteria on an empty stomach as it will act as a soothing agent to your gut.
Cumin, Fennel & Thyme
Take 1 tablespoon of each- cumin, fennel, and thyme and boil it in a glass of water. Drink this concoction daily and it works wonders.
Drink Tea
Drink a cup or two of peppermint tea. It will relax your intestine, reduce spasms and relieve gas pain. Make sure your tea contains real peppermint and not just then flavouring.
Avoid artificial sweeteners
Gums and candies often contain artificial sweeteners which are laxative in nature and difficult to digest.
Avoid Caffeine
Caffeine in coffee and fizzy drinks irritate your intestine and worsens IBS, therefore, it should be avoided.
Fiber
Eating sufficient amounts of fiber may alleviate constipation, improve diarrhoea, and prevent muscle spasms. Good sources are beans, oatmeal, and some fruits, such as apples, strawberries, and grapefruit.
Ginger
Ginger is helpful for a wide variety of gastrointestinal ailments ranging from simple indigestion to severe IBS-induced severe nausea and cramps. Chew a tiny piece of ginger before and after every meal to encourage relief from nausea and other digestive distress. Unsweetened Ginger Tea is also helpful in some cases.
Eat Small Meals
Changing diet obviously plays an important role in controlling IBS but this habit is worth giving a try. Eating smaller meals helps your stomach handle meal load better, so it ensures better digestion and less chance of overstimulating the digestive system.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile has anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-peptic, antibacterial, antifungal, and sedative properties. Chamomile tea has a calming effect on the muscle tissues and also acts as an effective remedy for gastrointestinal spasms.
Bacterial Infection in Stomach