IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome is common in middle-aged people. But it can also occur at a younger age. Therefore, people need to know about IBS treatment options so that their struggle with the disorder can come to an end.

IBS is responsible for constipation, excess gas, cramps, bloated stomach, and diarrhea. Fortunately, IBS does not permanently damage the intestines. But its cure is essential for improving the quality of your life.

What is IBS?

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that makes the gut sensitive. As a result, the intestines’ muscular contraction is unable to function properly. People suffering from IBS suffer from abdominal aches and cramps leading to bloating and gas, diarrhea or constipation, or in some cases, both.

How to Manage IBS

The cause of IBS is still unknown. To manage IBS, it is important to identify triggers that spike the symptoms. IBS can be treated through diet, medication, and stress management.

Treatment of IBS through Diet

The food that you consume has a major impact on IBS.  The first step is to identify trigger foods and avoid them. Some common trigger foods include caffeine, alcohol, dairy products, chocolate, high-fat food. Also, carbonated drinks, fruit juice, energy drinks have been reported to increase IBS.

Trigger foods may vary in individuals. A low FODMAP diet always helps in managing IBS. According to research, 50% to 86% of people showed signs of improvement in their IBS condition through a low FODMAP diet.

You can also keep a food diary and a chart of your IBS symptoms so that your specific trigger food can be identified and eliminated from your diet.

Treatment of IBS through Stress Management

Stress triggers IBS and intensifies the symptoms. In addition, it also worsens bowel syndrome and makes it last longer. Managing stress can also help in controlling the emotional response to IBS.


These strategies may help you in managing your IBS-related stress.

Meditation

Meditation helps people through relaxation programs and breathing exercises. Meditation induces a relaxed state of mind which is equivalent to physiological rest. This relaxation response improves the IBS condition.

People suffering from IBS are advised to practice Meditation for 15 minutes to 20 minutes every day for a minimum time of two months. Regular Meditation relaxes IBS-related anxiety.

You can also take instructions about beginner meditation from many online platforms. Local yoga studios also provide meditation classes.

Yoga 

Yoga postures are noted to decrease IBS-related anxiety. Yoga comprises gentle exercises and breathing control postures that could reduce IBS symptoms through the reduction in stress levels,

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT increases the awareness of your thoughts and behavior. The goal of creating this awareness is to help control the reactions and their effects on your health. CBT has been found to reduce the severity of IBS symptoms in patients just after four weeks of CBT sessions.

Treatment of IBS through Supplements and Medications 

Doctors recommend many supplements and medicines to treat the symptoms of IBS. Fiber supplements and laxatives are given for the treatment of constipation. Loperamide helps in curing diarrhea. Therefore different medications and supplements help in the treatment of varying IBS symptoms.

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