Irritable bowel syndrome affects millions of Americans, many of them not even realizing that the symptoms they feel are not normal. Some suffer from severe constipation, while others deal with diarrhea. Other symptoms are gas and bloating. According to the Mayo Clinic, as many as 1 in 5 adults has irritable bowel syndrome.
There are several common causes of IBS, which includes stress, anxiety, certain types of food, depression, hormonal changes in women and using certain types of medications such as antibiotics. Unfortunately, there are no significant cures for IBS, however the disease can be treated naturally by using herbs and supplements. I would like to share several natural, yet effective treatment for IBS sufferers.
The causes are believed to be nuerological in nature. The problem begins when your brain fires signals to your intestine which causes food to be moved too quickly or too slowly. This hurts the normal digestive process that
you have. IBS is often associated with stress, anxiety and sleep disorders. These attacks may be triggered by stress on the job when you cannot meet deadlines or your boss is always finding fault with your work. Stressful events like the death of someone close or losing a job suddenly will cause this illness.
Reducing stress in your life, eating smaller meals, regular exercise such as walking or yoga, and adequate sleep improve this disorder. Increasing fiber in the diet and drinking more water is another way to help the situation. For some patients a natural remedy may be the only medication needed to help. For centuries natural remedies from herbs and plants were used in Asia and Europe to treat nervous stomach and problems in the intestine.
Women are more likely to suffer from IBS than men. Scientific studies show female hormonal changes may play a role in this factor. There may be strong evidence to this since women with IBS tend to report exacerbations during their menstrual cycles, and also feel a stronger need to seek out IBS relief. Even men, though, can experience exacerbations in their IBS symptoms along with women when sick with intestinal illnesses and other sicknesses that bring the immune system down.
Lemon balm can help to reduce indigestion and gas. Camomile helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Fennel seed helps to reduce intestinal spasms. Together with other soothing extracts, these ingredients can form a highly effective weapon against spastic colon/IBS.