Irritable Bowel Syndrome (also known as IBS) affects much of our U.S. population, due to our highly-processed western diet.   It is the most common reason for a referral to a gastroenterologist.

The modern-day, fast-food diet is definitely an issue.  Refined, processed and altered foods that are hard to digest contribute to many symptoms of poor digestion.

IBS is characterized by a malfunction in the digestive tract.  Usually, waste material is delivered through the tract to the rectum by rhythmic contractions of the intestines.  In IBS, those contractions become erratic and irregular.  Bowel movements become unpredictable and painful, with attending constipation, diarrhea, or an alternation of both.  The abdomen can become cramped or bloated, certain foods can no longer be tolerated, and other all-too-familiar signs of gastric distress develop.  In some cases, waste matter is pushed through the tract with such force that stool incontinence results.

There are really five main fundamental causes of IBS:

  • The modern-day, fast-food diet is definitely an issue.  Refined, processed and altered foods that are hard to digest contribute to many symptoms of poor digestion.
  • Second, poor stress-coping mechanisms trigger nervous symptom reactions that contribute to IBS.
  • Third, chronic infections of the digestive tract with candida, parasites, and bacteria can be causative factors.
  • Fourth, poorly functioning digestive organs contribute to IBS symptoms.  These include dysbiosis, where there is a deficiency of the good bacteria that are involved with digestion and detoxification.
  • The fifth cause, and the least common, is a structural abnormality of some type.  Spinal misalignments, for example, impair nerve flow to the digestive tract, which contributes to digestive problems.

It is VERY important that you consult with a gastroenterologist in order to properly diagnose IBS, as there are other illnesses that have similar symptoms.  In my opinion, though, it is always best to try a natural route first, with the goal of finding resolution of this condition as they treat the underlying causes.

Symptoms:

  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Alternating constipation and diarrhea
  • Mucus in stools
  • Abdominal pain and cramping, usually either relieved by going to the bathroom or brought on by it
  • Flatulence and abdominal rumblings
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Intolerance to certain foods (food allergies)
  • Fatigue
  • Gurgling and rumbling of the abdomen
  • Burping
  • Heartburn
  • Occasional vomiting
  • Unpleasant taste in mouth
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Feeling full easily
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Mental “fog”
  • Frequent urination
  • Painful sexual intercourse
  • Painful periods
  • Irritation of the rectum
  • Insomnia
If you’re like me, you can’t help but say, “WOW!”   These symptoms are definitely unpleasant.  Personally, I have had a number of these symptoms and realized quite quickly that I must address them.
The most reliable way to calm an irritable bowel is to adhere to a good diet. You may find that the following suggestions advocate a drastic change from your present way of eating, but the difference in the way you feel will be worth it.  Even when eating the most healthful of foods, however, you must be careful not to eat just before going to bed.
A high-fiber diet is a must.  Although fiber may not sound appealing to you if you have diarrhea, it will actually regulate your bowels and soothe your digestive tract.  Your diet should be based on high-fiber foods, especially whole grains (like brown rice), raw or slightly cooked vegetables and legumes.  You should also slowly increase the amount of fiber-rich foods in your diet so that your body can adjust.
Drink a glass of clean water every two hours to ease the transit of waste matter and to keep your whole body functioning smoothly.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome can deplete your intestines of friendly bacteria.  Eat a cultured product such as live yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut every day.
Ok, so you know all that!  Now what?  If you’re like me, the last thing you want to do is go on a prescription medication.  Not only will that not get to the root of the problem, it most usually will cause additional health problems over time.  So what’s the answer?
I came across a product most recently that I think is awesome!!  It is called Herbal Fiberblend.   One tablespoon of HFB contains 5 grams of fiber, both soluble and insoluble fiber.  What exactly is it?

Herbal Fiberblend

Eating high-fiber foods is considered a healthy choice for most people, but few of us consume the necessary fiber to cleanse the digestive system adequately. AIM Herbal Fiberblend® is a unique and powerful combination of cleansing herbs and psyllium to sweep the digestive system clean of toxins and food debris. Available in traditional and raspberry flavors and vegetarian capsules.
  • Helps maintain regular bowel movements
  • Detoxifies—removes toxins from the body
  • Helps maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels
  • Fiber may reduce incidences of diverticulosis,
    colon cancer, and appendicitis
I have been taking it for three months now…and let me just say, “I am full of it!”  (a bit of humor there!)  Seriously, this gentle, natural product is cleaning me out.  No diarrhea.  Just good, gentle  cleaning out and elimination.  And another benefit, my skin is looking more radiant and I feel better intestinally.  I am sold on this product.
For more information – or to order Herbal Fiberblend – click on the “Products” tab on the Home Page!