10 Natural Remedies for IBS to manage IBS Symptoms

Table of Content

• IBS Symptoms to Know

• 10 Natural Remedies for IBS

• Lifestyle changes to manage IBS symptoms

• Take-Home Points

• FAQ on Best Natural Remedies for IBS

Introduction

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common and often uncomfortable disorder of the digestive system. The cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome has yet to be definitively determined. However, the most common treatments doctors recommend often include a combination of lifestyle modifications and medication. Fortunately, IBS home remedies, such as dietary adjustments and supplements, can relieve symptoms and help manage this condition. Implementing home remedies for IBS is one of the best way to manage IBS and can give sufferers much-needed relief from their discomfort. Here are 10 natural remedies for IBS to manage IBS symptoms.

IBS Symptoms to Know

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common and often uncomfortable disorder of the digestive system. IBS can cause various physical and emotional symptoms, including 

• abdominal pain

• bloating

• gas

• diarrhea

• constipation

• fatigue

• anxiety

• depression

Knowing the signs and symptoms of IBS is important for managing this condition and seeking appropriate care. Common IBS symptoms to be aware of include 

• abdominal pain or discomfort, 

• changes in bowel habits (such as chronic constipation or diarrhea), 

• mucus in the stool, 

• bloating and gas,

• feeling overly full after eating. 

• Anxiety or depression may also accompany symptoms of IBS. 

It is important to seek medical help if you experience severe abdominal pain that persists, as it can be a sign of a more serious medical condition. Early diagnosis and treatment of IBS can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve a patient’s quality of life.

10 Natural Remedies for IBS

There is no cure for Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A few treatments are available, but many people instead test with natural ways to find comfort from the symptoms of IBS and IBS pain relief. 

The following IBS home remedies and supplements may help.

1. Avoid trigger foods

Eating foods that trigger irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can worsen symptoms. While there is no single list of trigger foods, common offenders include dairy products such as milk and cheese, fatty or fried foods, processed snacks, alcohol, caffeine, and spices. Avoiding these trigger foods as a natural remedy for IBS is best. Those with IBS should also keep a food diary to find other foods causing symptoms or consider working with a dietitian. Together you can identify a diet plan, such as the low FODMAP diet, to help you identify your food triggers to avoid. A dietitian can also recommend the correct ways to incorporate the right nutrients into your diet to help relieve symptoms of IBS. 

2. Chinese herbs

TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) may relieve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. Herbal remedies like peony powder, citrus, and licorice have been used for centuries to treat medical conditions in Chinese Medicine. 

In a study that looked into treating IBS symptoms with Chinese herbal preparations such as Dang Shen, bupleurum, and magnolia bark, participants experienced significant improvements compared to control groups.

Certain herbs such as peppermint oil, chamomile and turmeric can also be helpful, as they can reduce abdominal cramping and improve digestion.

3. Fiber

Incorporating more soluble fiber into your diet may be beneficial in relieving constipation associated with IBS. Great sources of soluble fiber include barley, lentils, nuts, oats, and flaxseed. Alternatively, soluble fiber supplements, such as psyllium, can be used. 

However, when increasing your fiber intake, it's important to gradually ensure you drink plenty of water. A sudden increase may lead to gas and bloating, and not consuming enough liquid can worsen constipation. However, too much fiber consumption would worsen the situation in IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant). 

4. Ginger

Ginger is often used to ease digestive discomfort associated with IBS. 

5. Magnesium

Incorporating more magnesium into your diet may offer relief from constipation-related IBS symptoms. Magnesium is found in foods like legumes, nuts, seeds, spinach, and whole grains and is known to draw water into the intestines to soften stool and make it easier to pass. 

However, taking too much magnesium can lead to diarrhea, so consult with your doctor or dietitian about how much magnesium may be safe for you. Generally, adults have a maximum recommended dosage of up to 350 milligrams (mg) per day.

6. Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone produced in the pineal gland that helps regulate sleep and digestion. Melatonin can help regulate intestinal motility (muscular movement in the intestines) for those with IBS. 

According to one research review, most clinical studies demonstrate an improvement of IBS symptoms when taking melatonin supplements, usually 3 mg in the evening. Melatonin is widely available online and in drugstores, often marketed for its use as a sleep aid for insomnia.

7. Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil has been established as a safe, effective option for IBS relief. One research review found that peppermint oil had about a 58 percent success rate for IBS relief, double that of placebos.

Side effects of peppermint oil were found to be mild and temporary, including heartburn and discomfort. Compared to other solutions, the researchers said that peppermint oil could be the first go-to natural treatment for IBS symptoms.

Just look for therapeutic-grade options, which are pretty easy to find.

8. Probiotics

Probiotics, or “good bacteria,” are present in our digestive system and can be consumed through both supplements and food. It is one of the best natural treatments for IBS. In people with IBS, probiotics play a role in restoring balance to the otherwise troubled intestines. Studies have demonstrated that probiotic use may help address bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, inflammation, motility, and hypersensitivity. Further research is ongoing to determine which probiotics are most effective for treating IBS symptoms.

9. Slippery elm

Slippery elm is known for its potential to aid digestion and treat diarrhea, constipation, and digestive discomfort related to IBS. A study found that supplements containing slippery elm might help with symptoms such as gas, bloating, stool consistency and frequency, and abdominal pain.

Slippery elm can be consumed as tea, powders, capsules, or stirred into food and purchased online or in drugstores.

10. Tea

Drinking tea may also be beneficial for people with IBS. Types of tea that are considered to be IBS-friendly include green tea, herbal tea, and peppermint tea. 

However, starting with a weak tea is important to avoid worsening one's IBS symptoms, as stronger teas, such as black tea, contain caffeine which may aggravate IBS.

Lifestyle changes to manage IBS symptoms

• Managing IBS symptoms naturally can require lifestyle changes. First and foremost, it is important to track your triggers to adjust your diet accordingly. 

• Stress reduction is also important; regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and participating in enjoyable activities can help reduce stress. 

• Eat a high-fiber diet, as fiber helps move food through the digestive system and can help reduce digestive issues in IBS-C (constipation-predominant). However, too much fiber consumption would worsen the situation in IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant). 

By taking the time to make these changes, you may be able to manage your IBS symptoms naturally and more effectively.

Take-Home Points

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common and often uncomfortable disorder of the digestive system. The cause of IBS has yet to be definitively determined. However, the most common treatments doctors recommend often include a combination of lifestyle modifications and medication. 

• Natural remedies can be an effective option for managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. Probiotics are one of the most popular home remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), as they can help to reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and balance gut bacteria levels. Dietary changes, such as reducing the consumption of dairy, processed carbs, or other trigger foods, can also help to alleviate IBS symptoms. 

• Certain herbs such as peppermint oil, chamomile, and turmeric can also be helpful, as they can reduce abdominal cramping and improve digestion. With the right IBS home remedies, it is possible to reduce uncomfortable IBS symptoms and lead a healthier and more comfortable life.