Probiotics are live microorganisms which can be therapeutic for gastrointestinal diseases such as IBS. They help the bowel by suppressing the growth of bad bacteria, improves the leaky gut, and helps to alter of the immune system. The use of probiotics may also improve bowel motility.
READ: Understanding The 4 Types Of IBS
You can also repopulate your digestive tract with good bacteria by increasing fiber and decreasing sugar in your diet. Soluble fiber in vegetables and fruit add healthy bulk to the diet. Another beneficial option is taking digestive enzymes with meals to help break down food faster as the gut heals.
Other nutrients that can help heal the lining of the gut include fish oil and the fatty acid Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) commonly found in evening primrose oil, zinc, vitamin A and glutamine.
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Make sure to also drink plenty of water, exercise regularly and decrease your alcohol intake to promote regularity and minimize your IBS symptoms.
If you suspect that you may have IBS, consult with you doctor so they can do a careful physical examination with a complete history and an initial evaluation with lab work. For some patients this may mean a colonoscopy if there is a family history of colon cancer.
Visiting your doctor as well eliminating certain foods to treat the underlying causes of IBS can dramatically improve your health and help you to overcome your digestive problems.
Dr. Jessica Shepherd is a women’s health expert and also the founder of Her Viewpoint, an online women’s health forum that focuses on addressing taboo topics in a comfortable setting. As an OB/GYN, she practices at the University of Illinois at Chicago and also serves as the Director of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. She treats women for obstetrics, pelvic health as well as pelvic and sexual dysfunction. Dr. Shepherd has written in various journals including Women’s Day, Women’s Health, Family Circle, Parents, LifeScript.com, Heart and Soul, Best Health and Essence. Follow her on Twitter @JShepherd_MD.
