Irritable bowel syndrome is the most common digestive disorder seen by doctors. With IBS, the normal rhythmic muscular contractions of the digestive tract become irregular and uncoordinated. This interferes with the normal movement of food and waste material and leads to the accumulation of mucus and toxins in the intestine. This accumulated material sets up a partial obstruction of the digestive tract, trapping gas and stools, which in turn causes bloating, distension, and constipation. IBS may affect the entire gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth through to the colon.
Causes
Lifestyle factors such as stress and diet are the most common causes. The overuse of antibiotics, antacids or laxatives, which disturb the bacterial microflora of the bowel, may also be a factor.
Symptoms
Constipation;
Diarrhoea;
Abdominal Pain;
Mucus in stools;
Nausea;
Flatulence;
Bloating;
Intolerance to certain foods.
Whether a person with IBS eats normally or not, malnutrition may result, as nutrients are often not absorbed properly. As a result, people with this ailment may require up to 30% more protein than normal, as well as an increased intake of minerals and trace ailments, which can quickly be depleted by bouts of diarrhoea.
When dealing with a customer with this ailment, we need to establish the cause of the problem and look at the main symptoms, to be able to offer the best possible supplements, which will be most effective for the customer.
Supplements that me help relieve IBS
Aloe Vera A dried yellow sap taken from the leaf base is used internally. This contains anthraquinones, which have a laxative effect. If the anthraquinones can be removed, it may also be used as a soothing digestive aid
Peppermint reported to be an intestinal anti-spasmodic, our customers tell us peppermint may help to relieve the muscular cramp, spasm or mild pain. It may be particularly useful when these problems are related to the digestive system and may help flatulence, bloating, indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome.
Psyllium Husks is a gentle bulk laxative which may decrease transit time, can reduce internal swelling and may have a demulcent action (calming and soothing).
Slippery elm – anecdotal evidence suggests it may soothe an irritated digestive tract by providing a protective lining;
Ginger some reports suggest that ginger may have a natural anti-spasmodic action that helps relieve nausea and stomach cramps.
Amino acids aid the repair of the mucous membranes
Goldenseal a bitter herb may help to dry the mucous surface and act as a tonic for the liver and stomach
Manuka honey-soothing for the digestive system
Supplements that may help to prevent IBS
Acidophilus to replenish the “friendly” bacteria needed for healthy digestion; Good digestion relies on a healthy gastrointestinal system. Acidophilus is a probiotic bacteria that may provide an additional source of beneficial bacteria naturally found throughout a healthy digestive system. The friendly bacteria that Acidophilus may promote can prevent the build-up of the putrefactive bacteria that tend to produce gases and therefore bloatedness.
Vitamin B Complex contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism. It is reported to be required for the correct absorption and metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins, making it valuable for people whose diets are high in these nutrients. It helps support correct growth and development via the correct use of these nutrients, as it contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism. It also contributes to the normal function of the nervous system. This means it may help where IBS is caused by stressful lifestyle.
Flaxseed oil supplying essential fatty acids needed to protect the intestinal lining may be helpful according to some anecdotal evidence
Complementary
Chamomile or Peppermint tea both may have an anti-spasmodic action to help relieve stomach cramps;
Multivitamin And Mineral to maintain intake of nutrients required by the body for health and vitality;
Linseed provides bulking agents to help with bowel movement, and may also provide essential fatty acids needed to protect the intestinal lining;
Settled Watermay be required to flush out toxins from the body.
Recommended lifestyle changes
Eat a high fibre diet
Avoid animal fats, coffee and other products containing caffeine (coffee may induce a desire to defecate), dairy products, citrus fruits, spicy foods, chewing gum and wheat products. These foods encourage the secretion of mucus by the membranes and prevent the uptake of nutrients;
Avoid alcohol and tobacco; these irritate the lining of the stomach and colon.
