Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)is a chronic condition which flares up causing great discomfort with a number of symptoms.

The most common symptoms include: constipation, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, excess gas, urgency, bloating and passing mucus. Symptoms may be worse after eating or you may experience a flare up lasting for a few days before symptoms ease or go completely.

Certain food and drinks such as milk, alcohol, chocolate, spices can aggravate symptoms.

Foods and supplements such as increased fibre and probiotics such as live natural yoghurt can help. It is worth keeping a food diary to see if there is a pattern to symptoms following certain foods.
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IBS is often triggered by stress. Whilst reflexology can help with metabolism and improving gut movements, it also has a helpful effect on stress reduction.