Start your IBS-relief today
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder that affects your digestive system. IBS symptoms can include diarrhea, constipation or both, as well as abdominal pain or cramping. The cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is not fully understood, but we know that over 70% of people with Irritable Bowel actually have Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth or SIBO. I always recommend a SIBO test if you have a diagnosis of IBS or even suspect you may have it. You can read more about SIBO in my blog Why am I bloated? Is it SIBO? These are some of my favourite natural remedies for IBS and SIBO that you can start today or while you’re waiting for your SIBO test results.
Peppermint and Ginger Tea to soothe Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Fresh cut ginger root and fresh peppermint from a garden steeped in hot water for up to 5 minutes makes a beautiful soothing tea for gastrointestinal upsets. Also look for organic loose leaf teas that have therapeutic properties. Making a pot of peppermint and ginger tea in the morning and sipping on it throughout the day is a lovely way to keep the cramps at bay. Both being carminative herbs they help to soothe muscle cramping or the smooth muscle of the intestine.
Dandelion root tea to soothe constipation
If you suffer from constipation then dandelion root is a natural laxative that can help to relieve constipation, bloating and gas. The dandelion plant has been used for centuries as a treatment for digestive disorders like IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). The root of this plant contains chemicals called glycosides which have been found to reduce bloating and gas by increasing the movement of food through your digestive system.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to relieve constipation. They also contain calcium, potassium and antioxidants. To use chia seeds as a food: Add them to your favorite smoothie recipe or make a chia pudding with coconut milk!
Fibre
A systematic review and meta-analysis found fibre to significantly improve global IBS symptoms and IBS-C. However, fibre supplementation was found to worsen abdominal pain. Sources of soluble fibre were found to be more a therapeutic tool than sources of insoluble fibre in the treatment of IBS-C.eg: ground flaxseed, slippery elm powder, psyllium husks, oat bran and pectin. Another great supplemental fibre is Sunfibre, it promotes healthy digestive balance without the uncomfortable side effects often associated with other fibres. Partially Hydrolysed Guar Gum (PHGG). Start small: 1 teaspoon and work your way up to 1 – 2 tablespoons a day.
Iberogast
This over-the counter herbal remedy is one I do recommend for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. It contains 9 digestive herbs that work synergistically together. Actions such as relaxation of the gastrointestinal tract, anti-inflammatory, prokinetic, antioxidant and support the reduction of flatulence (no more pesky farts!). However this is a symptomatic relief, it’s not resolving the root cause of your irritable bowel syndrome, so it is always better to work with a practitioner.
Mindful eating
Finally it’s not just WHAT we are consuming but HOW we are consuming our food. When you are rushing around your nervous system is in flight or fight mode which is our sympathetic nervous system. When we eat we want to be in our parasympathetic nervous system; our rest and digest. We know there is a strong gut/brain connection with irritable bowel issues.Make sure to eat down to eat, do at least 3 slow deep breaths before you start eating, and try to focus on your food and savor every bite (instead of scrolling!)
Looking for more tips? Check out my blog 7 Tips for Managing IBS Symptoms for a Healthier Gut.
I hope that this has given you some ideas to start supporting your body and your digestive system. Having an Irritable Bowel is no fun, so I encourage you to seek support and guidance for a trained practitioner. If you’d like to have a chat about your gut symptoms and find out the best treatment for you I’d be happy to chat: just book a FREE Discovery Call today.
