Irritable Bowel Syndrome is relatively common, and not as severe as Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, which include ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease. IBS is a disorder that affects the large intestine (colon). Irritable bowel syndrome commonly causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation. Symptoms can vary from person to person, and symptoms may vary in intensity.
What are some common triggers for an IBS flare-up? One is food. While there is not any one food that can be labeled a trigger, there is speculation that there is a connection between food allergies and IBS. Another trigger is stress. Most people with IBS find that their signs and symptoms are worse or more frequent during periods of increased stress. Hormonal fluctuations are thought to be a trigger for IBS. Sometimes another illness, such as an acute episode of infectious diarrhea (gastroenteritis) or too many bad bacteria in the intestines, can trigger IBS.
There are many different approaches to managing IBS. The first step would be to try a natural approach, since many medications can cause side-effects or other adverse reactions. One of the simplest things is to do is work with your diet. Limiting gas causing or trigger foods is first. Another thing to eliminate is gluten since this can cause inflammation, allergic reactions, and digestive irritation. Some people are reactive to certain carbohydrates called FODMAPS. These include fructose, lactose and others. Working with the diet may be a trial and error approach, but it can be a helpful step in managing IBS.
Another natural approach is to work with non-drug supplements. Many nutrients and herbs support intestinal health. A few of them are aloe vera, fiber, probiotics and ionic silver. Aloe vera juice supports the digestion and absorption of food and nourishes the intestinal system. It may also provide soothing and toning properties to the sensitive tissues lining the gastrointestinal tract. The bowel houses waste and toxins and can easily become irritated, especially in the presence of acidic material. Aloe Vera juice can provide soothing support for these sensitive tissues. Nature’s Sunshine Aloe Vera Juice is certified by the International Aloe Science Council. This non-profit trade organization represents the best of the aloe vera industry world-wide.
Fiber is essential for colon health. The American Dietetic Association recommends that adults get 20–35 grams of fiber per day for optimal intestinal health and elimination. Most Americans only get 5–14 grams per day!
Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel, which slows digestion and provides a feeling of fullness. Psyllium hulls contain as much as eight times the fiber of popular oat bran. When mixed with fluids, these hulls swell and exert pressure on the intestinal walls stimulating them to contract normally. This added bulk may also absorb bowel toxins, helps keep intestinal walls clear of debris, and helps maintain already-normal cholesterol levels. When taken with a meal, psyllium hulls slow digestion and absorption, which can help regulate blood sugar.
Probiotics, or good bacteria, live mainly in the human gastrointestinal tract. Probiotics help the human host in a variety of ways. 1) They help support digestion and can improve nutrient absorption. 2) Probiotics promote immunity. 3) They also greatly support intestinal function. They aid in the elimination of toxins, break down fecal matter and produce certain vitamins as metabolic byproducts.
Supplementing with quality probiotics helps replenish these friendly fighters and is especially recommended after colon cleansing and use of certain medications. NSP Probiotic Eleven contains 11 strains of friendly flora and helps replenish good bacteria colonies in the gut. Bifidophilus®Flora Force supplies 4 billion friendly bacteria per capsule of four beneficial strains of probiotics.
Finally, Silver Shield ionic silver can help fight other illnesses and bad bacteria growth, such as yeast, without disrupting probiotic bacteria. This is unlike antibiotics which kill all bacteria –bad and good!
While IBS is something that needs attention, it is not a hopeless situation. If you suffer from IBS, give some of these suggestions a try. If you need more information on Nature’s Sunshine products, give Dawn a call at 570-673-5813 or click on the Nature’s Sunshine link on the CantonFitnessCenter.com website.
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