Digestion Bowel Health

I have recently been diagnosed with IBS and although I have overhauled my diet (and its been very beneficial thus far) are there any tips anyone can give me for coping comfortably with this disease?

Hi Tania my name is Kim and I am a Blackmores Naturopath.

Here is some general information on IBS for your perusal:

www.blackmoresnz.co.nz/.../irritable-bowel-syndrome It has some useful tips on diet and lifestyle as well as some helpful natural therapies.

If you are not already, I would be inclined to avoid wheat products for a while and increase your intake of fresh fruits, vegetables and rice. Consider fish, eggs, a little dairy and chicken for protein and avoid too much red meat and sugary products.

You may like to consider a probiotic such as Acidophilus Bifidus to support healthy bowel bacteria which may help decrease intestinal gas production.

The herb, slippery elm powder (mixed into water) may help to soothe the intestinal tract – see a health food store for this herb. If there is pain from abdominal muscular cramping then you may like to consider taking some magnesium.

As IBS can be a complex condition it is a good idea to follow up with a naturopath privately for a full dietary assessment and to rule out food sensitivities as they may exacerbate your symptoms. They can also modify your supplements as needed. Consider meditation and other forms of stress reduction as often IBS is linked with stress levels.

I hope that this gives you some help Tania. If you require any further information please phone the Naturopathic Advisory Service on 0508 757 473 to speak to one of our naturopaths. All the best, Kim