Coping with irritable bowl syndrome (spastic colon), first and foremost takes some understanding of this condition, which in certain respects is still a topic for debate by the experts. Defined as a functional bowel disorder characterized by lower abdominal pain and bloating associated with either diarrhoea, or constipation or alternating between the 2 patterns.

Symptoms are relieved by defecation and the condition sometimes manifests after a spell of food poisoning, gastroenteritis or travellers diarrhoea. In coping with irritable bowl syndrome treatment is directed at controlling symptoms and lifestyle changes. Coping with irritable bowl syndrome may require treatment of medical conditions often found in greater frequency in these patients, such as Headache, Fibromyalgia and Depression.

In coping with irritable bowl syndrome, diet is of central importance. Soluble fibre can reduce most symptoms, like oatmeal, berries, lentils, split peas, brown rice, buckwheat, corn meal, polenta, barley and soba noodles. Be more careful, but slowly increase these foods in your diet if your condition is diarrhoea predominant. Generally accepted advice in coping with irritable bowl syndrome is the avoidance of whole wheat and wheat bran. Eat more root veggies, bananas, peeled apples and pears. It is well known that diary products, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate and carbonated drinks should be avoided in coping with irritable bowl syndrome. Probiotics (there are many different strains of organisms, which are beneficial for the gut) are especially good after a recent bout of food poisoning or severe diarrhoea. Some nutritional support products may include many beneficial ingredients and are recommended in coping with irritable bowl syndrome (Lomentum). In general look out for Chamomile, Glutamine, enteric-coated Peppermint and Caraway oil and partially hydrolysed Guav Gum, for all forms of the disorder, as helpful natural ingredients for coping with irritable bowl syndrome.

Remember that in coping with irritable bowl syndrome, finding a knowledgeable physician who keeps abreast of new developments may be important. Medication may be necessary to control severe exacerbations, including the use of antibiotics, anti-diarrhoea agents, laxatives, antispasmodics and drugs affecting Serotonin. Acupuncture treatment has shown significant benefit in coping with irritable bowl syndrome.      

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