Combating irritable bowel syndrome with our diet

Cereals are good for the body

 In this chapter, we will be discussing how we can combat irritable bowel syndrome with our diet.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can certainly make you irritat­ed. This com­mon digestive disorder, which affects the large intestine, can cause abdom­inal cramping, bloating and a change in bowel habits. Some people with IBS have constipa­tion, while some have diarrhea. Others alternate between consti­pation and diar­rhea. Although IBS can cause a great deal of discomfort and disrupt your life, it does not harm the intestines.

The main cause of IBS is not known but it is believed to be associated with stress, mental health problems and tends to affect women more than men.

Most people diagnosed with IBS can control their symptoms with diet, stress management and medication.

Foods to in­clude

• Probiotic bacteria rich foods such as probiotic yogurt and fer­mented milk prod­ucts eg. Kefir.

• Soluble fiber rich foods such as; brown rice, oat­meal and whole-wheat bread.

• Water- helps ease fiber smoothly through digestive tract, andsoothes digestive tract distress.

Foods to avoid

• Processed foods such as ice-creams

• Refined flour

• Corn syrup

• Milk

Lifestyle modification

• Avoid alcohol consumption entirely.

• Adequate stress management and avoidance of stress as much as possible.

• Avoid cigarette smoking.

• Adequate sleep and psychiatric consult.

• Keep a journal of foods you eat and what symptoms may follow, to figure out which are the most dangerous foods for your bowel.

In conclusion, managing irritable bowel syn­drome can be very stressful and uncomfortable, but it’s not impossible; a well-tailored diet and lifestyle can relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome swiftly. By following the recommen­dations above, irritable bowel syndrome will become the least of your worries.

The writer is a nutritionist and Chief Execu­tive Officer (CEO) of Holistic Health Centre

 By Bernice AsareKorkor