| Irritable Bowel Syndrome |
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Many people have had the slight stomach upset, a rumble in the tummy before an important high profile meeting. It’s a natural occurrence and we often pass through it without any complaint. Then there are times for some when the abdomen is a tunnel of knots. That relegates you to the position of a ‘u’ like shape, as you double over in agony. Ironing out these knots seems bliss. Impossible to alleviate, but desperately wanted. This is IBS, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which can be extremely unpleasant and a real bother.  In the past IBS was usually designated a hypochondriac symptom and ignored. As we begin to recognise that the body and mind are truly linked and interact we accept that IBS is as real as a headache! IBS is involves the muscles of the intestines or bowel (lower intestines, colon). There is diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal spasms, abdominal bloating and gas or flatulence. These symptoms can be inhibiting social interactions, causing sick leave from work or school. Depriving you of favoured physical pursuits and downright inconvenient! People with IBS tend to have very sensitive natures that affect their intestines. Stress that can set off a headache can just as well set off an IBS attack. Often allergies are complacent. Trying an exclusion diet could be worth while. That means removing major potential and known allergens, including wheat and dairy. Each suspecting culprit is brought back in the screen line by being introduced back to the diet one by one while monitoring the body’s reaction. The body will shout ‘that’s the one’ by letting you know through its symptoms. Remember our symptoms are our body’s way of talking to us. We can ignore them, like couples like to do which leads to poor communication and a probable divorce. Thankfully, we can’t divorce our body; it usually takes decades to reach that threshold. Well, our bodies for years can make life hell for us when we don’t listen! The nagging partner, it just never lets up. Instead of living in a house of discord make life easier for yourself and pay attention. Care and time can make a tremendous difference to your body. A holistic approach may be best, that means addressing the mind and body. Relaxing therapies of yoga, aromatherapy and a relaxing attitude can all help. Then try marjoram or chamomile tea to aid flatulence and spasms. Sipping a tepid fennel infusion is one of a number of teas or infusions to give some relief. The intestines aren’t that tunnel of blocked bubbles and cold taught squashed twisted alleyways! Magnesium has been shown to have a relaxing effect on muscles. To help relax your intestinal muscles there are useful supplements and dietary guidelines to implement. Ultimately it is your lifestyle that can really be the problem. If your body disagrees, don’t worry it’ll tell you. Listen and keep a check up on what it says. Then give constructive feed back to live in peace. We, all sides of the party, want peace, which includes our bodies. Anastacia Sampson D.N. Med |