Irritable Bowel Syndrome, also referred to as IBS, occurs when there are changes in intestinal function that lead to stomach, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and gas. It can be hard suffering with IBS because the symptoms can degrade and even cause hemorrhoids which are uncomfortable to live with. Luckily, there are many ways to prevent irritable bowel syndrome, and it is important to remember that prevention is key in remaining IBS free.
1. Move Everyday
Daily exercise is important for keeping not only your muscles strong, but the gastrointestinal system functioning properly, as well. Getting in some exercise, whether it be walking for an hour or swimming, will keep your stomach regular and strong, which means preventing irritable bowel syndrome all the while. Exercise has proven to eliminate stomach pain, constipation, and bloating that are all symptoms of IBS.
2. Avoid Consuming Lots of Raw Foods
Raw and unwashed food, such as vegetables, fruit, and legumes can all trigger IBS symptoms. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly wash your food, and more specifically, wash your hands and any surface you will be putting your foods on prior to preparation. Raw or undercooked food can irritate the stomach and cause gas, diarrhea, or bloating.
3. Eat Probiotics
Consuming probiotics, whether through supplements or food, can prevent irritable bowel syndrome by balancing the intestinal flora. Some great food options to consume daily that provide probiotics are yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha, and soft cheeses.
4. De-stress
Stress can take a toll on anyone’s body, but it can especially hurt your intestines and promote IBS symptoms. It is important to de-stress your life so that you can prevent IBS. Some ways of de-stressing are soaking in a hot bath with a scoop of Epsom salt and a few drops of lavender, reading a good book before going to bed, drinking warm tea with honey, practicing deep breathing, and not letting the little things in life get you down. Stressing out can stress out your digestive tract…so calm down!
5. SIBO
SIBO, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, can share many of the same symptoms as IBS. There are several sibo treatment available for those who suffer from it, such as with antibiotics, probiotics, herbal supplements, and a SIBO specialized diet that focuses on reducing carb and sugar intake. Since SIBO and IBS are closely related with symptoms, it is therefore imperative to have a medical professional determine which one you may have to seek the best treatment.
6. Avoid Junk Food
Eliminating junk food like candy, chocolate, fried and fatty foods, and sugar-laden drinks can help keep IBS at bay. These kinds of food can trigger IBS symptoms and leave you feeling sluggish, sick, and tired. Focus on consuming lots of fresh water, clean fruits and vegetables, and adequate amounts of fibre through whole-grains and beans.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be a frustrating thing to deal with, and it can leave a person feeling unwell. There are, however, many easy ways to prevent IBS development that will keep your intestines healthy and strong so that you can enjoy life.