IBS, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is a common disorder that as many as one in five adults suffer from. Characteristics of IBS include: abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea and sometimes constipation.
If you have had several of these symptoms for at least 12 weeks within the past year, chances are pretty good that you have IBS in some form. Are there natural remedies for IBS? The answer is “Yes “– and one of the remedies involves l-glutamine.
Natural remedy for IBS: Probiotics
Drinking a probiotic drink first thing in the morning can help to relieve IBS. Probiotic drinks have live microbial organisms that occur naturally in the digestive tract and vagina. They are often referred to as “friendly” bacteria. If you don’t prefer the taste of texture of probiotic liquids or yogurts, there are numerous powder and capsule supplements that contain billions of probiotic bacteria strains.
Probiotics promote better intestinal health by suppressing the growth of harmful bacteria, improving the immune system, enhancing a protective barrier in the digestive tract, and aiding in the production of vitamin K.
Natural Remedy for IBS: L-glutamine
L-glutamine supplementation is a natural remedy for diarrhea symptoms that accompany IBS. Though it may not work for everyone, the effect may be seen within 2-3 days.
Start with 1/4 teaspoon and mix it in cold water. Drink it on an empty stomach. (see also L-glutamine and aloe supplement for IBS) (It is virtually tasteless and suspends well in water or juice)
Then, gradually increase the 1/4 teaspoon from once a day to 2-3 times per day. You may increase the dosage up to 1 full teaspoon 2-3 times per day if desired.
L-Glutamine nurtures and heals the mucosal lining of the intestines, causing the bowel to reabsorb water from stool, which in turn reduces the number and frequency of bowel movements. IMPORTANT: do not use L-Glutamine if you have liver or kidney disease.
Natural IBS Remedy: Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is one of the most common natural remedies for IBS. It is believed to aid in abdominal pain reduction and bloating.
Peppermint oil blocks the movement of calcium into muscle cells within the intestines. This eases excessive muscle contractions. Pepper is also used to eliminate excess gas within the intestines.
It is important to note that peppermint oil should not be used by children or pregnant or nursing women. (editor’s note: Excessive does of peppermint oil can cause heartburn. Only use enteric-coated capsules.)
Natural Remedies for IBS: Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum
PHGG, partially hydrolyzed guar gum, is a water soluble fiber. It is one of the natural remedies for IBS because it can help reduce constipation. It appears that PHGG increases the amount of good bacteria in the intestines.
Changes to diet can also be natural remedies for IBS. Common food intolerances are dairy and grains. It is our opinion that an alternative medicine doctor, such as a naturopath or chiropractor, is best qualified to help you determine a course of treatment for IBS, using supplements and enhanced nutrition.
