Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects your gut. Although the gut itself is not damaged and typically looks normal under a microscope, there is a with how the bowel functions, which leads to a variety of symptoms. These symptoms are different for every person, but the most common ones are usually stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea, and constipation.
Over the years, a number of methods have been used to treat IBS. Still, the effectiveness of the treatments varies from person to person, making it challenging to provide those with irritable bowel syndrome relief from their symptoms. IBS treatments may not always stop symptoms, but they are helpful in reducing the severity and improving your quality of life. In our guide, we have compiled fourways to improve your quality of life while living with IBS.
Living With IBS: 4 Ways To Improve Your Quality Of Life
Diet
Eating a balanced diet and ensuring you have a regular meal pattern is the first step in treating irritable bowel syndrome. Avoid having late-night meals and make sure you are mindful when you eat by chewing slowly without distractions, such as the TV, to aid in digestion. Aim to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day and keep a diary of foods you consume as it will help you determine which are triggering your symptoms. There are is also tea for IBS that you can use to help reduce the severity of symptom flare-ups.
If you’re already following a healthy diet plan for IBS and keeping track of your food intake with no change in how often you have an IBS flare up, it may be time to get expert assistance. Goodness Me Nutrition are experts in body recomposition and offer a variety of diet plans for IBS, including a gluten-free diet plan, to help you reduce the frequency of how often you have an IBS flare up.
Exercise
Many people who suffer from IBS find that regular exercise helps to relieve their symptoms and how often they have an IBS flare up. If you want to use exercise as a way to improve the quality of your life, try to include around 150 minutes of exercise into your weekly routine and ensure that you choose activities that increase your heart rate. For help setting up your exercise routine, check out this helpful guide with advice on which exercises benefit those with IBS.
Stress
It is well known that stress and anxiety can contribute to your symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and often bring on flare-ups. Reducing your stress levels is a great way to improve your symptoms; try meditation, yoga or regular exercise to release the endorphins your brain needs to bring down your stress levels. However, if you’re struggling with stress or suffer from long term anxiety, speak to your doctor to arrange therapy or counselling to help you improve your mental health and, as a result, your IBS.
Medication
In addition to lifestyle changes that you can make to improve your IBS symptoms, there are some medications that you can take to ease your flare-ups. However, your doctor will typically only prescribe these for short periods of time, and they are not a long-term solution.
In conclusion, while living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome presents its challenges, there are several strategies you can employ to alleviate symptoms and enhance your overall quality of life. A tailored diet, consistent exercise, effective stress management, and the judicious use of medication—under medical supervision—are fundamental components in managing IBS effectively.
Implementing dietary changes by identifying and avoiding trigger foods, coupled with a structured exercise regimen, can significantly reduce symptom severity and frequency. Additionally, mastering stress-relief techniques such as yoga or meditation can further mitigate the impact of IBS, as stress is a known aggravator of symptoms. Although medications are available to manage flare-ups, they should be used as part of a broader, holistic approach that includes lifestyle modifications.
By adopting these integrated strategies, individuals suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome can lead a more comfortable and fulfilling life despite the challenges posed by this condition. Remember, it’s essential to consult healthcare professionals to tailor a plan that best suits your specific needs and circumstances.
