Nobody wants to have to deal with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) but it is a reality for many from around the world. The good news is that there are many different things that can be done in order to deal with it, especially with the flare-ups that appear. While it is obviously a very good idea to take suitable medication like Iberogast, you also have to make some lifestyle changes, among others. Take into account the tips below and it will be a lot easier to deal with IBS.
Always Manage Stress Levels
When you suffer from IBS there is a much higher possibility that stress-related symptoms are going to appear more often and be more severe. Examples include bloating and abdominal pain. Stress management is very important if you want to avoid the flare-ups. You can do this in various different ways, like yoga and deep breathing. What is very important is to learn diaphragm breathing so that abdominal muscles can relax.
Progressive relaxation also helps deal with stress. You want to alleviate the upset stomach so look for those relaxation methods that are going to help you.
Counseling Helps
This is an option that few people consider. The idea is to never be afraid to get help. Counseling helps since the psychiatrist will offer the aid so that stress would be eliminated, together with becoming better at properly responding to various life events that could negatively influence you.
An alternative that is sometimes used by psychiatrists is biofeedback. This will focus on “mind over matter”. There is a machine that is going to slow the heart rate while muscle tension is reduced. Through practice, you can make such changes yourself.
Increase Fiber Intake
Diet changes are absolutely necessary when dealing with IBS. A really important part of it is to add increased quantities of fiber to the meals you eat on a regular basis. Dietary fiber is going to ease many of the gastrointestinal symptoms, including constipation. Even so, you do want to be a little careful since other symptoms can become worse, including cramping and gas. You want to minimize the potential problems so do be sure that you gradually increase fiber intake as a number of weeks pass. Never do everything at once.
Eliminate Bad Foods
Some foods have been proven to increase the possibility of having a flare up together with making symptoms worse. This can vary from one person to the next so watch your diet. You want to avoid those foods that make the symptoms worse, including cauliflower, chocolate, broccoli, sugar-free sweeteners, cabbage, and beans. There are people that have trouble when referring to dairy. In this case, you want to change yogurt and opt for milk. Alternatively, try to decrease how many dairy products you use every single day.
Drinks Count
The very important thing is to be sure that you drink as many fluids as your body needs. At the same time, you want to avoid the drinks that are known to cause problems like carbonated drinks, tea, coffee and alcoholic drinks.