Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as spastic colon or nervous indigestion, is not actually a disease but a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain or cramping, chronic diarrhea (frequently alternating with constipation), bloating, and flatulence. These uncomfortable symptoms are caused by irregular contractions of the large intestine, which are sometimes excessively forceful, and sometimes too lax. Natural treatments focus on dietary changes, which directly affect the functioning of the large intestine. Because emotional tension often plays a role in irritable bowel syndrome, regular exercise and managing stress can help control symptoms. Chiropractic Care Nutrition and Supplements Herbal Remedies Homeopathic Remedies Essential Oils Chiropractic Care  coming soon BACK TO MENU Nutrition and Supplements A high-fiber diet is essential for helping to restore normal peristalsis. Water-soluble fiber, found in oat bran, vegetables, fruits, beans, and peas, is the most gentle fiber for an irritable colon. Water-soluble fiber supplements include pectin, psyllium seed husks, oat bran, and guar gum. When using a fiber supplement, begin with small amounts to avoid bloating (1/2-1 teaspoon in a glass of water, increasing to I teaspoon three times daily if needed). Avoid caffeine because of its powerful laxative effects, and artificial sweeteners (especially sorbitol), which can cause diarrhea. Also avoid high-fat foods such as fatty meats and full-fat dairy foods because they stimulate bowel contractions. Food allergies are often at the root of irritable bowel syndrome, especially an intolerance for lactose (dairy products) and for gluten-containing grains (wheat, rye, barley, and oats). Use a rotation diet in order to check for the presence of possible food allergies (see Allergies). Supplements that help maintain a healthy intestinal tract include: acidophilus, 1 teaspoon powder three times a day: to reestablish a healthy balance of intestinal flora BACK TO MENU Herbal Remedies peppermint, one to three capsules of enteric-coated peppermint oil three times daily between meals: to relieve intestinal gas and spasms ginger or chamomile, 1 cup of tea or 1/2 teaspoon of tincture three times daily: to relax the digestive tract herbal bitters, 1/2 teaspoon fifteen minutes before meals: to stimulate digestive secretions and promote healthy functioning BACK TO MENU Homeopathic Remedies Homeopathic remedies for irritable bowel syndrome include: Arsenicum album: for profuse, watery diarrhea accompanied by bloating and restlessness or anxiety Nux vomica: for constipation alternating with diarrhea, or sudden spasms with ineffectual urge to move bowels BACK TO MENU Essential Oils To relieve tension and spasms in the intestinal tract, use essential oils in a massage oil applied to the abdomen. Use any one or a combination of the following: chamomile: antispasmodic, sedative marjoram: antispasmodic, laxative, sedative peppermint: antispasmodic, carminative PAGE TOP Powered by ProfessionalPlanets.com™ Copyright 1999 © ProfessionalPlanets.com™ All rights reserved. Terms of Use