Irritable Colon - Can it be Alleviated with Fiber? - By: Annieson Turner

Disorders in the stomach can be most uncomfortable and disturbing. Most of our body’s malfunctions result from an improper diet like an irritable colon. This disorder can bring a great deal of distress and discomfort.

An irritable colon is also regarded as a spastic colon. Other names associated to this disorder include Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), spastic bowel and functional bowel syndrome. The condition is not a disease. It is a common problem in the intestines. An irritable colon can just be a result of insufficient fiber intake. The disorder is more of the colon’s functions, wherein, bowel movement doesn’t work properly.

Though doctors still have yet to prove the real causes of an irritable colon, studies have shown that people experiencing it have intestines squeezing either too hard or not so hard. At this rate, food tends to move either too quickly or too slowly through the intestines. As a result, cramping, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating or constipation is felt. An irritable colon can be disabling. It can make the patient unable to work, travel or even attend small parties and social events. Aside from feeling pain, this can make a person seclude himself in his home and possibly ruin normal day-to-day activities.

Fortunately, this disorder can be corrected with medications. Doctors highly recommend fiber supplements and laxatives (for constipation) or even medicine to lessen diarrhea. With dietary fiber, it can lessen the symptoms of irritable colon, especially constipation. Sources of high-fiber are whole grain breads, fruits, cereals and vegetables. These foods keep the colon mildly inflated and thus, preventing spasms. Fiber can also keep water in the stool, thereby preventing constipation. Increasing the intake of fiber by 2 to 3 grams per day also helps reduce bloating and increased gas conditions. Most of all, it greatly helps in painless and soft bowel movements.

Another way to avoid experiencing an irritable colon is by refraining from drinking carbonated beverages. This is since carbonated drinks can produce gas in the stomach - causing pain and discomfort. Drinking six to eight glasses of plain water a day is very helpful, especially when you have diarrhea. Eating too quickly or chewing gum can make you swallow air, which also leads to gas.

Eat smaller meals or smaller portions instead of large meals. Foods that are high in carbohydrates but low in fat also help. Good examples include rice, pasta, whole-grain cereals and breads. Fruits and vegetables are also most helpful in avoiding the discomforts of an irritable colon. This includes apples, beans and citrus foods.

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