In addition, IBS pain may feel like abdominal cramping or aching.

Your healthcare provider may suggest home remedies in addition to medication to help manage your symptoms.

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1.

woman sleeping with a hot water bottle on stomach

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Tea

Herbal teas have long been used to easedigestive symptoms.

Probiotic Foods

Research suggests that probiotics (beneficial microorganisms found in some foods) may improve IBS symptoms.

Foods rich in probiotics include:

4.

small salad being tossed in a clear bowl

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This in turn causes digestive issues in some people who eat them.

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Fiber

Many people with IBS are afraid of fiber because they fear it will worsen their symptoms.

two women in therapy session

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However,dietary fiberis essential to keeping the digestive system working at its best.

People with IBS should increase their fiber intake very slowly to give their digestive system time to adjust.

Physical Activity

Physical activityhas many health benefits and can help improve IBS symptoms like fatigue.

Regular practice of relaxation exercises helps to lower your baseline anxiety level.

Try out different types of relaxation exercises to figure out which one works best for you.

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9.

Support

Dealing with IBS is stressful and talking about it can help relieve some of that anxiety.

A mental health therapist is another option.

Therapy targets the connections between outside stressors, your brain, and your gut.

Massage

Massaging your abdomen may help when you need immediate IBS symptom relief.

A gentle belly massage can help relieve bloating and constipation, and reduce abdominal discomfort.

The best OTC medicine for IBS varies depending on your symptoms.

For constipation, a laxative can help increase bowel function.

For diarrhea, an antidiarrheal like Imodium (loperamide) is often used to slow down gut transit time.

Peppermint oil can help relieve other IBS symptoms and pain.

If you have concerns about IBS symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider.

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