Can Irritable Bowel Syndrome be treated naturally?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects the large intestine. It's a lifelong issue without a cure. It can be controlled by diet, lifestyle, and medication.

Symptoms include abdominal cramps, bloating, farting, and bowel changes. Others only have diarrhoea or constipation. Many have both. It comes and goes over time.

A family history of IBS increases the risk. Certain foods and stress trigger IBS. The doctor confirms the diagnosis by excluding other diseases. The treatment of IBS differs widely.

A food diary can help track what one eats and how it makes one feel. If a portion of food is aggravating the condition, avoid it. Try to avoid skipping meals, eating frequently, and eating fatty, spicy, or processed food. Instead, fresh homemade meals have been helpful.

Caffeine should be avoided. Regular exercise, limiting smoking, and stress-reduction techniques are good lifestyle changes.

Your doctor may prescribe antidepressants, probiotics, or drugs. Living with IBS is difficult. Although there's no cure, diet and lifestyle changes can help.

The writer works as a Research and Policy Assistant in Centre for Research, Innovation and Development Action (CRIDA). E-mail: trisitasahabiswas132@gmail.com