Bloat? Pain? You May Have Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Have you ever wondered why some foods just don't seem to go down well? Are your bowel movements few and far between, or frequent and uncontrollable?

If you've answered yes, there may be a chance that you suffer from have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). And, If you do, you're not alone.

Approximately 20% of all men and women in North America struggle with the symptoms of this condition. 

IBS occurs in people when their intestinal muscles have unusual or unbalanced levels of strength, causing their bowels to contract differently. As a result, their bodies are unable to push food through the digestive system normally. For some people, their muscles are abnormally strong, squeezing too hard and fast, causing uncontrollable bowel movements and diarrhea. For others, the muscles are so weak that that the person experiences constant constipation. Even though these muscles aren't working properly, they will still usually look normal under a microscope. Often, IBS can be seen in patients who are under abnormal amounts of stress.

Statistics show that it's primarily women who struggle with IBS, although men may have it as well.

So, how do you know if you have IBS?

These are common Symptoms of IBS:
- abdominal cramps or pain
- abdominal gas
- alternating constipation and diarrhea
- bloating
- constipation
- diarrhea
- mucus in your stool

If you suspect that you do, in fact, suffer from IBS, there is good news, and there is bad news. The good news is that IBS is not a life threatening condition, and many people who have been diagnosed with it have gone on to lead normal, active, and healthy lives. The bad news is that there are no proven cures for IBS.

Simply watching what you eat and learning what works for you is often the best way to go. If you suffer from constipation, eat fibre rich foods. If it's a looser bowel that troubles you, go for foods that are rich in starches and potassium.

Image from MorgueFile

Sandra (6) Paque
		About the author:
		I am an avid aerobiciser, thigh masterer, kegel clentcher and core ball balancer. I am just like you: a curious and (mostly) motivated woman who thinks she can (and will!) lose a few before my next family wedding or beach party. I am your sister, your mother, your aunt and your daughter. I will scour the fitness and diet landscape (so you don't have to) and keep you up to date on the latest and greatest bum and thigh disappearing potions. I hope you find my articles insightful and more than anything, motivating! NOW DROP AND GIVE ME TEN!!
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