Irritable bowel syndrome causes symptoms like constipation, cramping, and diarrhea. This condition most often affects women, and there is no clear cause or cure. However, there may be some holistic treatments to help you get your IBS symptoms under control. If you are living with IBS, talk to your naturopathic doctor about these methods. 

Which Holistic Treatments Can Help With IBS?

1. Nutritional Changes

Your naturopathic doctor may recommend eating a special diet to reduce your IBS symptoms, such as a low-FODMAP diet. Foods that contain high levels of FODMAPs, or fermentable carbohydrates, may increase symptoms like bloating and stomach pain. Avoiding foods like milk, soft cheese, wheat, beans, and some fruits and vegetables can be beneficial for some patients. However, be sure to talk to your doctor about which foods trigger your IBS symptoms. 

2. Probiotics

Probiotic supplements increase the amount of “good” bacteria in your digestive system, which may improve IBS symptoms in some patients. Your naturopathic doctor can recommend a supplement that is best for your needs. However, they may also advise that you include natural probiotics in your diet by eating foods like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut. 

3. Fiber Supplement 

Your doctor may recommend increasing the amount of fiber in your diet if you deal with frequent constipation. Soluble fiber supplements dissolve in water, offering an easy way to get more of this nutrient. However, too much fiber can worsen your IBS symptoms. Be sure to carefully follow your doctor’s dosage recommendations. 

4. Stress Management

Stress hormones can speed up or slow down the digestive tract, often causing IBS symptoms like bloating. Your doctor can work with you on stress management techniques to ease your digestion. This could include meditation, mindful breathing, activities like painting, and exercise. Keep in mind that stress may be only one contributor to your IBS symptoms, so you might need to use a combination of holistic treatments. 

If you’re living with IBS, the team at Center For The Healing Arts PC in Westport, CT, can recommend holistic treatments to manage your symptoms. Holistic doctor Robban A. Sica, MD, and her team treat each patient as an individual. From your first appointment, Dr. Sica will assess your body’s natural makeup to get to the root of your ailments. From IV therapy to nutritional supplements, their treatments are aimed at your personal health and wellness. You can visit them online to view a full list of their services, or call (203) 799-7733 to make an appointment.