Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic disorder affecting the large intestine. Its symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and/or constipation, gas, and bloating. IBS is the most common gastrointestinal disease worldwide, mostly affecting individuals ages 45 and below. Data shows that women are more likely to suffer from IBS. According to health experts, this is probably because of the gut changes that are influences by reproductive hormones. 

 

While medications may come in handy, they aren’t always the best option. Below are some natural effective approaches to treating IBS: 

 

 

Could therapy help resolve your gut problems? Sounds bizarre but it possibly can. After all, the gut is the body’s ‘second brain’. It is lined with serotonin receptors - the same hormones in your brain that are responsible for boosting your mood. Cognitive behavioural therapy works by helping you reframe or replace negative thoughts that affect your lifestyle (such as your eating habits). 

 

 

Research published in The American Journal of Gastroenterology has found that hypnotherapy can help alleviate symptoms of IBS such as abdominal pain and bloating.  

 

 

Yes, you read that right. Exercise also benefits your gut and can reduce symptoms of IBS. Physical activity bolsters your serotonin levels, which then improves the condition of your gut. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous workout per week for better mental and physical health. 

 

 

Studies have shown that yoga is a great tool against IBS. Like exercise, it boosts serotonin too, soothing your GI tract as well as the brain. The corpse, cat and cow, and child’s poses are among those that are known to promote better suggestion. 

 

 

Your gut greatly depends on the food you eat. If you are eating junk food, then it has no way to get the essential nutrients it needs to function properly. Great sources of fibre are beans, oatmeal, and some fruits, such as apples, strawberries and grapefruit. Meanwhile, tea relaxes the intestines, thus reducing spasm and relieve gas pain. Eating foods that are rich in probiotics is also a great way to reduce IBS symptoms and take care of your gut. 

 

 

Research shows that 80% of IBS patients have one thing in common: they are vitamin D deficient. While experts aren’t yet sure how the sunshine vitamin affects gut health, it is important that you have your vitamin D levels checked by your doctor.  

 

 

Being a natural antispasmodic, relaxes smooth muscles in the intestines and thereby relieving IBS symptoms. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that peppermint oil can be a safe and effective short-term treatment, improving IBS symptoms and reducing abdominal pain.