12. Skip the Laxatives
According to the Mayo Clinic, it’s best to stay away from over-the-counter laxatives and anti-diarrheal medication is you have IBS. These medications temporarily alter digestive function, which worsens the confusion going on in your bowels (18). They also leave your body dependent on these medications to stay regular.
Instead, ride out each phase of your IBS and stay hydrated throughout. Also, make sure to get plenty of sleep and stay calm.
13. Consider Your Emotions
Like stress, strong emotions can affect digestion, inflammation, and overall health. As you’ve probably experienced, emotions can lead to a lack of hunger, cramping, nausea, vomiting, excessive gas, and diarrhea. If you’re going through a family death, betrayal, trauma, or other anxiety, fear or anger-based event, take the time to grieve and let go.
You might even want to consider taking a few days off work or speaking to a shrink. Emotions are a big part of what makes us human, so it’s vital to address them and go through your challenges. Whatever you do, don’t bury your emotions: they’ll always come back in one way or another.
14. Eat Probiotic-Rich Foods
This tip doesn’t work for everyone. If your IBS is caused by an imbalance between your good and bad bacteria, taking in more beneficial bacteria can help restore order. However, if your condition is caused by SIBO, which is the cause of roughly 85% of IBS cases, then it’s best to keep away from probiotics until your condition improves.
Here is a short list of probiotic foods to take or avoid, depending on your condition:
- Sauerkraut
- Kefir
- Yogurt
- Kimchi
- Kombucha
15. Hot Bath
Taking a hot bath will help you feel relaxed, but that’s not all! A hot bath is a great way to ease sore abdominal muscles and prevent cramping (19). To get the most out of your bath, add some Epsom salts: they’re high in magnesium, an anti-inflammatory mineral easily absorbed through your skin.
Remember, the more you invest in your gut health, the better your body will absorb nutrients. The more nutrients you absorb, the more energy you’ll feel. Hence, give these remedies a try and stay patient as you get to know your body and your triggers.
A healthy gut also leads to a healthy mind, so you should feel a mood boost by working through your condition. Stay positive and your relationship with your gut will be too!