Natural Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a digestive disorder that may affect up to one in five people in America. The syndrome is slightly more common in women than in men, but affects both sexes. Doctors have been perplexed from time to time on what causes the discomfort and symptoms of IBS; however no real research has found a cause.

Many patients suffering from IBS have a lower blood supply to their digestive tract that those that are not affected by Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Because of this finding, many doctors believe that is the most likely contributor to the disease. It is also a syndrome that is easily accompanied by depression, anxiety and stress. For these reasons, many doctors believe IBS to be a psychological disorder.

Whatever the cause may be all research points to no specific cure for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. There is no known abnormality that has been found to be a contributing factor among those diagnosed with IBS. Some doctors believe the pain receptors may just be a little more sensitive in patients with IBS. The digestive tract is most commonly in perfect form in the patient with IBS.

These findings that show no abnormality, no cause and no cure leave the syndrome rather mysterious. While there are various treatments available, none is proved completely effective. Some patients see results from fiber supplements. Fiber such as Metamucil and Citrucel ease the constipation that affects some patients with IBS.

Other patients with IBS have found some relief from the syndrome by taking anti-diarrhea medicines such as Imodium.

By eliminating foods that are known to cause gas, the digestive tract may be less susceptible to the pain associated with gas. These foods include vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. Salads can sometimes aggravate gas as well. Even carbonated beverages such as soda can trigger gas in the intestinal tract.