SPEAKER: Irritable Bowel
Syndrome.
It might have a funny name,
but IBS is no laughing matter.
For some people with IBS,
one of the problems is diarrhea.
The sudden urge to go
can be painful and embarrassing.
Lots of things
can affect your IBS-D,
but there's a lot to about it
too, from changing what you eat
to controlling your stress.
Keeping a food diary
is a great way to find out what
trigger foods you should avoid.
Some of the worst offenders
are dairy products, veggies
like broccoli and cauliflower,
and spicy foods.
Too much fiber can cause trouble
too, but it's important.
So figure out what fruits,
veggies, and whole grains
work best for you.
Your digestive system may do
better by eating smaller meals
more often throughout the day.
And don't let anxiety and stress
your IBS-D worse.
Make sure you exercise,
get a good night's sleep,
and take some time to relax
with deep breathing, massage,
or meditation.
If lifestyle and diet changes
aren't enough,
there are medications that can
help.
Just ask your doctor which one
might be right for you.
While there's no known cure
for IBS-D, it doesn't have
to define your life.
Just know it may take some time
to find the right balance
and keep things under control.