Irritable bowel syndrome is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007). According to an article from the Cleveland clinic (Gastrointestinal Disorders, 2010), IBS can be triggered by consuming certain foods.
It has been known to cause a great deal of discomfort but it does not permanently damage the intestines (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007).
Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
There are no specific causes for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007). Theorists believe that people who suffer from IBS have a large intestine that is sensitive to certain foods (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007). Some people have a strong immune system. This enables them to fight off infections that would otherwise lead to IBS. Another theory suggests that a weak immune system can lead to IBS.
Research has discovered that IBS may be caused by bacterial infections that occur in the gastrointestinal tract (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007). The digestive tract is therefore considered to be vulnerable to such infections.
Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Patients who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome complain after having consumed large meals. Wheat, rye, barley, chocolate, milk and alcohol can increase abdominal discomfort in people who experience IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007).
Women with IBS may experience more symptoms during their menstrual periods (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007). One of the symptoms of IBS is diarrhea. Diarrhea is a condition where stool is in a semisolid state and is often discharged like a spray of projectile refuse. This can be viewed as one of the many inconveniences of IBS. Other symptoms of IBS include abdominal discomfort and constipation.
Treatment
Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common disorders diagnosed (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007). It can be treated by avoiding caffeine, increasing fiber in the diet, avoiding foods triggers, minimizing stress and sometimes taking prescription drugs (Gastrointestinal Disorders, 2010).
Many people who suffer from IBS are unable to identify its causes. Coffee has been identified as one of the common causes of irritable bowel syndrome. Tea is a preferable substitute for patients who suffer from the disorder. It contains minimal amounts of caffeine and should be avoided if the patient continues to suffer from the disorder. Treatment can be in the form of medicine or a change in dietary habits.
According to Van Vorous (2007), patients who are affected by certain foods experience different symptoms. It is therefore important to note down the foods that seem to cause extra discomfort (Van Vorous, 2007).
Diarrhea can be treated by consuming large amounts of plain water on a daily basis (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007). Water is a universal solvent. It has been known to act as a lubricant for foods that are difficult to digest. Carbonated beverages, however, can lead to various forms of abdominal discomfort (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007).
Consumption of foods that are low in fat and high in carbohydrates is also advised (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007). Rice, pasta, whole-grain breads, fruits, and vegetables are some of the foods recommended to counter abdominal discomfort (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007).
Soluble fiber helps to alleviate all symptoms of IBS, including diarrhea, constipation and abdominal cramps (Van Vorous, 2007). Soluble fiber also improves the levels of glucose in the blood by regulating the rate at which food leaves the stomach (Van Vorous, 2007).
In many cases, fiber can be used to treat patients suffering from constipation (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007). Diets rich in fiber have also been known to help with bowel movements (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, 2007). This adjustment is not completely effective. Patients have been known to respond differently to treatment. Some people may be allergic to certain foods. They may not be able to consume foods that contain fiber. It is none-the-less recommended due to its high rate of success among several patients. For many IBS sufferers, diet modification can reduce symptoms (Van Vorous, 2007). A balanced diet can be used to control the frequency of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Foods that have been known to trigger IBS should therefore be avoided (Gastrointestinal Disorders, 2010). Dairy products are an important source of calcium (Gastrointestinal Disorders, 2010). Patients are sometimes advised to avoid dairy products that may cause IBS (Gastrointestinal Disorders, 2010). They are therefore encouraged to supplement their diet with calcium pills. This ensures that the IBS treatment does not led to malnutrition.
Reference List
Gastrointestinal Disorders (2010). In Cleveland clinic. Web.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (2007). In National Digestive Diseases Information Clearing House. What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Web.
Van Vorous, H. (2007). Eating for IBS and the First Year IBS. Diet Treatment for Irritable Bowel. Web.