"Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you-
all of the expectations, all of the beliefs-and becoming who you are." Rachel N. Remen.


Welcome to IBS Management

If you have been diagnosed with IBS or you are a family member of someone that suffers from this condition I am glad you are here. Please take time to peruse this site. The symptoms can be painful and challenging, not only physically, but emotionally as well. It not only affects the sufferer, it affects others also, such as family, friends and co-workers.

Being a recovering IBS sufferer I know first hand how it affects every aspect of one's life including social life, work, and family life. It has been said that there is no cure for IBS. However, many have recovered from it. Through research and learning as much as you can about the condition you will soon be on the road to recovery. Remember, your condition did not happen overnight and it will not disappear overnight. It's going to take time and patience. It is my prayer that you will gain valuable information, insight and motivation for the healing process. Rest assured, you are not alone.


      -What is IBS?
      -Diet and IBS
    -Functional Disorders
      -Do Medications Relieve IBS symptoms?
      -Stress Management
      -IBS and Depression
           -Other Symptoms    

What is IBS?

IBS is a chronic disorder of gastrointestinal functioning. It is usually characterized by cramping, abdominal pain, gas and bloating, diarrhea and constipation. An estimated 20% of adult Americans have symptoms of IBS. IBS stands for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. It is also called spastic colitis, mucous colitis and spastic colon but these are outdated.

Although the cause of IBS has not been determined, it can be worsened by stress and poor diet. It is a disorder of motility, the way the nerves and the muscles are working. Once all other diseases of the gastrointestinal system are ruled out a diagnoses of IBS is determined. It ranges from mild to debilitating. It occurs in women more than men and it usually starts before the age of 35 about 50% of the time. It does not lead to any serious, organic diseases. It does not lead to cancer. Although it is not life threatening, it can become a very serious condition. However, it can be managed by various lifestyle changes such as learning how to effectively manange stress, time management, joining a support group,  and eating a proper diet.


Diet and IBS

Eating a proper well balanced diet can help reduce IBS symptoms. It is recommended that you eat smaller more frequent meals during the day rather than one large meal. High fiber/low fat diets are suggested. The recommended daily dosage of fiber for adults 50 and younger is 38 grams for men and 25 grams for women. For men and women over 50 it is 30 and 21. If this is difficult for you to do then you may want to ask your doctor about fiber supplements. In addition, you may want to see a nutritionist.

Eating lean meats, fruits and vegatables, carbohydrates such as whole grain breads, rice, pastas,cereals should  help. You may want to keep a food journal so that you can pinpoint any trigger foods so that you can avoid them. The most common foods to avoid are the ones that contain caffeine or dairy products. Since chocolate contains caffeine it is not recommened. However, some people enjoy carob which is a chocolate substitute that can be purchased at most health food stores. Also, there is a wide selection of herbal teas that aid digestion, particularly peppermint and fennel. Make sure to read the label to make sure that it does not contain caffeine, though. 

Some people have found that eating organic food is much better. However, this is a personal decision as this can become costly. However, studies have shown that going organic is very beneficial for your health.


Functional Disorders

Functional disorders occur when there is an impairment in functioning. There is no anatomical or biochemical abnormalities found during diagnostic testing. However, in a functional GI disorder the body's normal movement of the intestines (peristalsis), the sensitivity of the nerves, or how the brain controls some of these functions is in some way impaired. These abnormalities are not detected by x-ray, blood tests, or endoscopy. Therefore, a functional disorder is identified by the characteristics of the symptoms.


Do Medications Relieve IBS Symptoms?

Some doctors prescribe antispasmodic drugs, transquilers or a low dosage of an antidepressant medication to help alleviate the symptoms. Probiotic supplements are known to improve digestive health as they help to improve intestinal flora. You do not need a prescription for probiotics because they are sold over the counter. However, you may want to inquire with your health practitioner as to which one may work best for you.


Stress Management

If you have IBS it is important that you learn how to manage your stress. Having the condition itself is a stressor. Relaxation techniques such as visualization and imagery help to reduce stress. Exercise is also a known stress reliever which releases seratonin, the feel good hormone. It is recommended that we exercise at least three times a week. Walking is said to be the best form of exercise.

Studies show that meditation and yoga are important to the healing process as well. Talking to a therapist is another alternative, especially when you feel that you need to get further insight into how to cope with the disorder. Talking about it will prove beneficial in the long run. Other alternative methods are acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and deep breathing exercises. Whatever method you choose to reduce stress, remember to be patient with yourself. Healing takes time.


IBS and Depression

Depression and anxiety are common with those who have IBS. If you have been diagnosed with either of these or if you feel that you have them, please seek professional help. In the meantime, try to surround yourself with positive people. Also, watch your thought life. The thoughts that you think will have an impact on your health as well. Try to eliminate negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones. When you find yourself thinking a negative thought like "I'm never going to get well" or "I can't do this" stop yourself. Replace them with thoughts like "this, too shall pass" and "I am capable."

Do things to improve your mood, whether it's watching a funny video or movie, listening to upbeat music, or finding time for a hobby that you enjoy. Whatever you do, just make the time to do it. It's so easy to be caught up with our busy schedules, but find time to do things that will help you on your healing journey.


Others Symptoms

Other symptoms include excessive mucus, a swollen abdomen and the feeling that you have not finished a bowel movement. Constipation is known to cause bad breath so by all means keep it moving. Also, women with IBS have noticed that their menstrual cycle is worse for about the first three days.