Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea, now affects 30 percent of the population, Reuters reports in a mid-March story.

The disorder has many potential causes, including diet, stress, trapped gas, medications, hormonal changes and genetics, according to WebMD.

Other causes might include the following:

• Gallbladder removal
  

• Anxiety and depression

• An overactive immune response

• Faulty brain-intestinal tract communication

(Sources: NE Mississippi Daily Journal and WebMD)

IBS symptoms range from stomach upset to rectal bleeding. The condition also reveals itself in muscle aches, insomnia, irritability, dizziness and trembling. In addition to bleeding, serious IBS warning signs include anemia and a family history of colon cancer.

Acupuncture, aloe among several possible remedies for IBS

Many IBS sufferers find relief by avoiding dietary triggers, while others resort to alternative therapies and supplements. Probiotic supplements, in particular, have gained some attention lately for improving IBS symptoms.

In fact, the Reuters report focuses on the potential that probiotics could help IBS sufferers. A University of Oxford analysis looked at several probiotic studies and found the "friendly bacteria" provided modest to significant improvement in symptoms, including abdominal pain, flatulence, bloating and quality of life.

One of the first lines of defense against IBS is exercise, sleep and a good diet, according to WebMD. Behavioral therapies, such as biofeedback, hypnosis, self-help groups and psychotherapy might also be viable options.

People with IBS might also benefit from these alternative therapies and supplements:

• Acupuncture and Chinese herbs for pain relief

• Peppermint oil for cramps and spasms

• Aloe for constipation

• Ginger for nausea

Avoid these foods

It also might be important to avoid these foods and beverages:

• Insoluble fiber in raw fruits, raw vegetables, seeds and nuts

• Fats, which can lead to steatorrhea

• Red meat because it's difficult to digest

• Dairy in lactose-intolerant individuals, who should consider a digestive enzyme with lactase

• Caffeine, which has a diuretic effect and can cause increased bowel movements

• Alcohol, a gastrointestinal irritant

• Carbonated beverages because they can cause gas

(Source: Everyday Health)

Digestive enzymes from WellZymes^TM and Genuine N·Zimes^TM might provide support for IBS.