It is a hot night. No matter how hard you try, you cannot sleep. The already uncomfortable sleeping conditions are made worse because of the Have IBS? Here’s What You Can Do. While you may not be able to make the heat go away, there may be things you can do to minimize the symptoms of IBS.
Find Ways to Relax
IBS is a disorder that has been called a brain gut disorder. There is a link between the mind and the way the body responds, which can lead to IBS. Many people find that their IBS symptoms diminish and their sense of well-being improves if they can incorporate relaxation techniques into their lives.
Stress is an inevitable reality of life. However, it can be managed in a way that promotes good emotional and physical health. A regular practice of intense relaxation can produce benefits, such as minimizing anxiety, increasing productivity and energy levels, improving sleep, minimizing fatigue, and reducing muscle tension.
Whether you dedicate just a few minutes each day or one hour to relaxation, you will be able to get control of your IBS symptoms. Relaxation promotes self-care. Practices like abdominal breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualizing positive imagery may help with IBS symptoms.
Get Exercise
Some see exercise as the secret weapon for IBS. Exercise reduces stress and increases the release of endorphins. Exercise increases cardiovascular strength and overall physical fitness. This may make your body more capable of handling IBS flare ups. Several studies have shown that exercise may improve the severity of IBS symptoms. A study done in 2011 showed that a group of IBS patients who upped their exercise levels also had a significant decrease in IBS symptoms.
Try Probiotics
Probiotics can be taken in capsule or powder form. They are also available in some fruit products. Some have tried probiotics for IBS and have experienced help with intestinal problems. Probiotics restore the bacterial balance in the gut and may affect the immune system.
The reason some have used probiotics is because they may inhibit the growth of disease-causing bacteria and may enhance the immune system’s barrier function. Probiotics have been shown to slow down bowel movements, fight inflammation, and balance gut flora. However, not all probiotics are created equal. There are a variety of strains of probiotics, so it’s good to do research before selecting a probiotic add to your diet.
Cook Homemade Meals
For those struggling with IBS, going out to eat is a mixed bag. It is fun to be with friends and family. However, you don’t have control over the food being prepared. There is no way to know for sure if what you eat will make your symptoms worse. Cooking from home allows you to identify the foods that improve your symptoms and those that make it worse.
There is no 100 percent cure for IBS. For many, it is a matter of trial and error. However, if you include relaxation techniques, cook meals from home, try probiotics, and get exercise, you may experience a reduction in symptoms and an improved quality of life.