MedWatcher Quick Facts
- Irritable bowel syndrome affects many people worldwide
- Stress management and nutrition are key starting points
- Each person reacts individually to certain foods or treatments
Understanding the causes and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as IBS, is a functional bowel disease. This means that although the intestinal mucosa is healthy, the intestine still does not function properly. Those affected often suffer from abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea or constipation. The exact causes are not yet fully understood, but factors such as stress, hormonal fluctuations or certain foods can trigger or exacerbate symptoms.
Stress management as the key
Many sufferers report that their symptoms increase during stressful times. It can be helpful to learn stress management strategies such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing exercises. Regular exercise and sufficient sleep can also have a positive effect on stress levels and therefore on symptoms.
Adapt your diet in a targeted manner
As certain foods can exacerbate irritable bowel symptoms, it is important to find out which foods are problematic for you. A food diary can help you with this. Many people with IBS benefit from a low FODMAP diet, which avoids carbohydrates that are difficult to ferment. Nevertheless, such a dietary change should always be made in consultation with a nutrition expert.
Natural home remedies for relief
Some home remedies can help with irritable bowel symptoms. Peppermint oil, for example in capsule or tea form, can have an antispasmodic effect. Psyllium husks can help with both diarrhea and constipation. It is important to drink enough. Probiotics can also be useful to positively influence the intestinal microbiome.
Living with irritable bowel syndrome can be challenging, but with the right strategies and a little patience, you can significantly improve your quality of life. Always remember to take your body and its signals seriously.
