There is no cure for irritable bowel syndrome. However, certain steps can be taken in order to avoid the factors that trigger the attack of the symptoms and make the symptoms worse.
These steps are mentioned below:
- Consumption of a high fiber diet
It is extremely important to increase the intake of fiber in the diet. The foods that are rich in the soluble fiber are mainly fruits and vegetables. These foods help to cleanse the digestive system. The soluble fiber is easily dissolved and helps to soften the stools and maintain regular bowel movements. This helps to ease the constipation related symptoms such as hard stools, bloating of the abdomen and abdominal pain. Hence a health care professional will always advise a person suffering from constipation predominant type of irritable bowel syndrome to include at least 5 daily servings of vegetables and at least 2 daily servings of fruits in the diet.
Vegetables can be consumed raw, in the form of salads, stir fry or soups. It is advisable to consume fresh fruits, but canned or tinned fruits can also be included in the diet. Fruits should not be replaced with fruit jellies or fruit bars as again they are high in processed foods, gluten and food additives which can trigger the onset of irritable bowel syndrome.
- Regular food habits are necessary in the management of irritable bowel syndrome
Regular food habits will help to reduce other bowel symptoms such as bloating and abdominal discomfort.
- Replace fruit juices and colas with water
It is important to avoid the fruit and vegetable juices or the sugary fizzy fruit cordials that are available in the supermarkets. These fruit drinks are high in the sugar content and may trigger the onset of irritable bowel syndrome.
- Avoiding gluten containing food is important in cases of food intolerance
Many people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome have reported increase in the symptoms after intake of foods containing gluten. Gluten is present in wheat and other grains. Hence it is important to identify such foods and avoid them.
- Avoiding spicy food and junk foods is important
Spicy food and junk food can irritate the bowel and trigger the development of irritable bowel syndrome. Hence it is important to avoid the spicy food and consume moderate food at regular meal times. The junk food must be replaced with freshly cooked homemade meals.
- Diarrhea can be relieved by medications
Sometimes the health care professional can prescribe drugs such as Diarrex in order to provide temporary relief in case of diarrhea.
- Stress management may play a role in controlling the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome
The onset of irritable bowel syndrome is triggered by stressful situations that cause anxiety, nervousness and depression. Hence the health care professional may refer the person suffering from this condition to a psychologist or a professional counselor in order to learn stress management techniques and calm down the anxiety. Often the person complains of diarrhea in case of anxiety and depression.
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