Diet Tips For Bowel

Can you suggest a few diet tips for easy bowel movements?
(October 11, 2010)

Top  10 Diet Tips For  Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is characterized by the primary symptoms of constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain or cramps, bloating or gas. An irritable bowel syndrome diet basically involves eating several small meals frequently during the day rather than just three large meals. This ensures that the stomach is not left empty for long periods of time which may otherwise result in the excessive production of stomach acids resulting in acidity. One should also drink plenty of water throughout the day  as part of an irritable bowel syndrome diet as water  helps in keeping the body hydrated and also promotes good bowel movement. Additionally a short bowel syndrome diet should not include or minimize the intake of alcohol, caffeine, fatty food, and sorbitol as they tend to aggravate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.


On the other hand a diet that is low in fat is also helpful in minimizing the contractions of the intestines which usually occurs right after a meal. Similarly an irritable bowel syndrome diet should also not include foods such as cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli that are known to be as-producing foods.

Those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome should gradually include fiber rich foods in their diet such as kidney beans and lima beans, fresh vegetables and fruits as well as whole grain breads and cereals. The inflammatory bowel disease diet should also be supplemented with some relaxation and stress management techniques as stress sis known to be one of the major contributors of a flare up of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. In some cases the doctor may also advise the person to visit a psychologist or a doctor in order to receive some help in reducing stress. Similarly one should also practice some form of exercises on a daily basis such as walking or jogging as its helps to relive stress and most importantly improves the functioning of one’s bowel movements. The irritable bowel syndrome diet should be designed in such a way so as to avoid foods that are known to trigger the onset of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and these would be coconut milk, fried or oily foods, red meat, egg yolks, and dairy products.

An irritable bowel syndrome diet should be low in fat but should not be completely fat free as some amount of fat is required for the healthy functioning of the body. One of the key principles of the irritable bowel syndrome diet is to always consume soluble fiber first whenever ones stomach is empty and to also try and make soluble fiber the biggest component of any snack or meal as far as possible. Those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome should always eat small portions of food in a calm and peaceful environment. Those who are keen on knowing how to improve bowel movement should remember to always visit the toilet regularly and to also increase the intake of water ad well as foods that are rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber. One can also have good bowel movements by following an active lifestyle and consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables.

• A regular visit to the toilet, preferably at the same time, on a daily basis is of great help.
• A complete insight into 'bathroom habits' is necessary for all, from a child to those in senescence.
• The color of the food in a meal determines the ease of bowel passage. Lack of color, indicates poor nutrients, especially fiber. Some of these foods are white rice, potatoes, white bread, pasta, white sugar and white flour.
• Water is an important part of the meal pattern, which contributes to better stools. About eight glasses of water and other liquids, in the form of barley water, soups, coconut water and fresh juices proves beneficial. Avoid tea, as the tannins constipate and restrict bowel movement. Coffee and tea are diuretics, which deplete the system of water. This in turn causes constipation. High fiber foods in the diet are always accompanied by increase in the liquids intake.
• A basic knowledge about fiber is important. Based on their solubility, fiber is classified as insoluble and soluble fiber. Fruits, whole grains, seeds and raw veggies are examples of the former. They provide relief from constipation. Soluble fiber is seen to occur in oat meal, quinoa, psyllium, sweet potatoes and brown rice. These aids in the elimination of toxins from the system.
• Detoxifying the system is an effective way to ease the bowel movements. Occasionally, a fruit and vegetable diet with adequate water supply is helpful.
• Know the signs of constipation. The urge to visit the toilet is mostly postponed or not noticed by many individuals, which in turn results in poor bowel movement.
• The use of supplements, such as Psyllium husk, is helpful. These commercial supplements are taken under the guidance of a physician.
• A healthy lifestyle is of primary concern. Lack of activity, increase in sophistication, sedentary lifestyle and lack of movement results in constipation.
• Relaxation of the anal sphincter muscle helps in peristalsis of the colon, which in turn propels the stools. Regular workouts, half an hour a day, about five times a week are useful. This, not only helps improve bowel movement, but also keeps the system healthy, in a wholesome manner.