One in five Northern Americans has Irritable bowel syndrome, which makes it one of the most common disorders diagnosed by doctors today.

One in five Northern Americans has Irritable bowel syndrome, which makes it one of the most common disorders diagnosed today. Irritable bowel syndrome usually hits the person around age 20 and is more common among women than in men.

Irritable bowel syndrome is actually a disease, although doctors consider it a functional disorder. However, even though the syndrome can cause considerable pain and discomfort, it does not damage the digestive tract as organic diseases do.

Irritable bowel syndrome disturbs the normal functions of colon, particularly how the muscles in the intestines work, causing a lot of embarrassment and pain. It’s important to remember, though, that Irritable bowel syndrome does not harm the intestines as much as serious disease do. Irritable bowel syndrome also does not cause internal bleeding, but may worsen a medical condition if you already have one.

Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by a group of symptoms-cramps and abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

No one really knows why this disease hits certain people. Some doctors link colon sensitivity to weak immune system. Some researchers believe that people with Irritable bowel syndrome have sensitive colon that reacts to aggravating foods and certain emotional conditions, most commonly, to stress, conflict, or upsets. Antidepressants are often used to relieve stress-related Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.

Most people with Irritable bowel syndrome find it impossible to work, go to social events, or travel even short distances. However, many irritable bowel syndrome sufferers can successfully control their symptoms with simple diet changes.

No cure has been found for Irritable bowel syndrome, but making changes to your diet is a very effective way to manage irritable bowel syndrome.

Medications are an important part of relieving Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Your doctor may suggest fiber supplements or occasional laxatives for constipation, as well as medicines to decrease diarrhea, or drugs that calm down abdominal pain.

Careful eating is #1 step in reducing Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Quite often, when you increase fiber intake, Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms are relieved.

Eating more fiber can be easier than you think. Whole grain breads and cereals, fruits, and vegetables are both delicious and healthy in terms of fiber. Fiber-rich diet results in regular bowel movements and better colon cleansing. However, fiber will make you feel worse if you have pain or diarrhea because high-fiber diets may cause some discomfort at first, but do not panic, it means you need a few days to adjust to new diet. Positive changes take time if your colon is more irritated than normally.

When starting fiber-rich diet, stick to plain foods like white rice, plain unflavored oatmeal, rice cereal, pasta, peeled potatoes. Incorporate insoluble fibers carefully by blending fresh fruit with soy or rice milk making delicious and nutritious cocktails. You can always add vegetables into soups or pasta sauces. Grilled - not fried! - fish filet or low-fat chicken breast goes well with your pasta or rice. The aim is to eat as fat-free food as possible! Low-fat fiber-rich meals should become a staple in your diet. To increase fiber intake, drink psyllium or flaxseed dissolved in water, such as Citrucel or Metamucil.

In general, try eating food that is low in fat and high in carbohydrates, such as whole grain pasta, unprocessed (not quick-cooking) rice, whole-grain breads and cereals. Fruits and vegetables should become an integral part of your meals. Avoid food that is high in fat, insoluble fiber, caffeine, coffee, carbonation, or alcohol.

When relieving IBS with diet, you should keep your water intake at maximum. You need water to prevent dehydration, especially if you have diarrhea. Drink plain water without gas. Carbonated beverages, such as sodas, may result in gas and cause discomfort.

Irritable bowel syndrome may lead to changes in the way you eat your food. Big portions of food can cause cramping and diarrhea. To prevent that opt for smaller portions and eat more often. Less food requires less work from your bowels, and with Irritable bowel syndrome that’s what you don’t need at all.

When following these simple Irritable bowel syndrome diet guidelines many people start living a normal, happy, outgoing life instead of spending days stuck in the bathroom battling excruciating pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Diarrhea and pain should resolve in just a few days. Constipation can take several weeks to relieve. Besides, you will look and feel healthier, too!