Need relief from cramping as soon as humanly possible? Are your symptoms debilitating and you’re searching for ways to get them under control? Or, do you want to build up your system so that you stay pain-free and out of the bathroom?

There are several over-the-counter IBS remedies you can try. See your doctor or dietitian for their recommendations for how the take them and which brand to choose. But remember, only you are familiar enough with your body to know which work best. While it is best to experiment with formulas, routines, and brands under a doctor’s supervision, keep a journal and log how your symptoms change.

 

 

 

 

Fiber supplements can initiate bowel movements. It is generally a good idea to consume 20 to 35 grams of fiber each day through food. But when that isn’t enough, or you are having trouble eating enough, taking a capsule or powder supplement may be a good idea.

 

*** When beginning use of a fiber supplement, be sure to add it to your regimen slowly and drink plenty of water. Otherwise, it could exacerbate symptoms.

 

There are many types of soluble fiber to choose from. The most common type is psyllium, but there is also calcium polycarbophil, methylcellulose, and guar gum. Each person will respond differently to various fibers, so if one doesn’t work, try another type. Some leading brands include Metamucil (psyllium), Equalactin (calcium polycarbophil), and Benefiber (guar gum).

 

When mixed with water, these fibers form a thick liquid that moves food through the intestines.

 

 

Antidiarreal remedies can bind your stool.

 

There are two types of antidiarrheal remedies: loperamide and bismuth subsalicylate. Loperamide slows down the speed of fluids moving through your bowels. Bismuth subsalicylate decreases the flow of fluids in the bowel, and because it works as a mild antibiotic it can bind toxins like bacteria.

 

Some leading brands of antidiarrheal remedies include: Imodium and Maalox (loperamide) and Kaopectate and Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate).

 

 

Keeping calm can do more than ease your mind. It can provide treatment for Irritable Bowel symptoms. Stress can over stimulate the brain and the nerves in your bowel, creating painful bowel activity.

 

Everyone has stressors in their lives, but if you can manage your life to minimize them, your comfort and overall quality of life can improve. Treat this by making a list of stressors, and find ways to make changes in your life to reduce their influence over you. Meditation, yoga, and self-hypnosis can be a tremendous benefit, as they relax your internal response to stress and can keep you from reacting to stimulus in ways that can exacerbate your IBS.

 

Make time in your day to relax. Choose a time when you can be alone, and will not be disturbed. Draw yourself a bath, read books that make you feel good, or better yet -- practice the stress-management techniques found in meditation, yoga, or self-hypnosis. These include breathing exercises that can calm you down, and even make you feel good. Make this time of relaxation as important as eating, because as you learn to manage your emotions, your Irritable Bowel symptoms can ease up.