Having Cerebral Palsy means we're more susceptible to Irritable Bowel Syndrome. There isn’t a test for IBS, but if we have around four or five of the symptoms, we probably have it.
Irritable Bowel ("IBS")
IBS needs to be managed better around our diets. By eating the right foods we automatically cut down some of the symptoms. Because certain foods are known to trigger the symptoms of IBS, caution should be taken. Foods such as chocolate, alcohol, caffeinated coffee, soda drinks, dairy and wheat products, are all known allergens, as are cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and beans.
Managing Irritable Bowel
Foods containing fat, may also be a problem for some IBS sufferers. If anyone is lactose intolerant, it's important they cut out yoghurts from their diet and instead substitute it for lactose free milk. Eating small amounts of products containing milk, or combining them with other foods may help, although for some of us, taking foods out that contain dairy, may work better.
Probiotics that helps by breaking down lactose is a good supplement to take. It's important for all Irritable Bowel sufferers that we eat foods that we know are right that don’t give us the abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, or flatulence.
Cutting down on stress
Stress can also be a trigger for IBS, something we cannot always avoid, so it's equally important we reduce stress and stressful situations. Probiotics are also found in yoghurts and drinks that contain ‘live cultures,’ but caution is asked for, as these contain sugar. Sugar unfortunately is known to make Irritable Bowel Syndrome worse. Digestive Enzymes are also used to help combat IBS.
Fibre may help Irritable Bowel, although for some fibre can make their Irritable Bowel worse. It's always good to experiment to see what works. If introducing fibre into the diet, it should be introduced slowly. Examples of food containing fibre include beans, vegetables, wholegrain and fruit.
If you’re not sure about your symptoms or your symptoms change, it’s always best to consult a doctor. A doctor can help rule out other more serious condition such as Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative Colitis, which are both forms of Colon Cancer and Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
I totally agree with the theory of diet being the core and the cure to this ailment depending on the severity. I am always finding another food or item that I just can't tolerate, I put it on the list and leave it alone. Maria gets a little frustrated at times, she says "Brian what can you eat". It's just a life change or condition and a small one for me at this point in life. It's simple, eat it feel the toilet, don't eat it and feel okay.
Brian your analogy is brilliant, very true. At best we manage it with remedies to help us. That's all we can do.
Im lucky not to have to deal with IBS on a personal level but Im sorry for my friends and loved ones that do. And from all I've studied, you are absolutly on track with the diet and stress thing. Both of those can get you in trouble if you don't watch out.
Yes they can! Thanks for your comment.