Anyone have advice on how to help IBS symptoms?!

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I've had IBS for years and have it well under control. Make sure you are taking adequate fiber in your diet. My physician recommended I take a couple of teaspoons of straight bran. I used to take this as is and drink a hot beverage with it like tea or even with a cup of plain hot water. I don't need to do that anymore. Other good sources of fiber include whole grain bread and cereals, beans, fruits, and vegetables.

Triggers for me are: excess coffee, foods that are too spicy, and foods too rich in fat content. For example I must stay away from certain restaurants that use a lot of spices. If I eat foods rich in fat content like too many potato chips, especially nuts I will pay a heavy price. Refined breads and cereals can trigger bouts of constipation. 100% whole wheat bread is easier to digest than white bread. Broccoli, onions, and cabbage have been problematic for me but if taken in moderation I'm okay. Everyone is different so you may react to other foods that I don't have a problem with.

Severe abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, flatulence and diarrhea were [are?] common. When I speak of abdominal pain I'm talking about pain so excruciating that your stomach feels like it is being ripped out from inside.

Hormonal fluctuations seem to play a significant role in women when it comes to IBS issues. Regular exercise, abdominal hot packs, and herbal teas with smooth muscle relaxant properties (particularly medicinal strength peppermint or high volatle oil fennel, but chamomile and raspberry leaf as well) are all healthy approaches to take for reducing or preventing menstrual cramps and resultant IBS symptoms according to research.

Gas and bloating are common IBS symptoms in women, Well, they are too in men. Upper GI symptoms are not a typical part of the syndrome, though women with IBS are statistically more prone to GERD and acid reflux.

Drink six to eight glasses of plain water a day, but drink the water an hour before or after meals, not with meals.

As I mentioned earlier I was diagnosed with IBS years ago. As I learned more about the condition I was able to control it. I do not take any natural supplements. I would say that now I no longer suffer from IBS but I'm susceptible if I'm not careful.

While stress is not a cause of IBS it can, as you suspect exacerbate IBS symptoms so have your doctor recommend ways to alleviate the stress in your life.

It is good that you are seeing your GI as he will want to rule out any other possible causes. Good luck to you.