The American College of Gastroenterology estimates that between 10% and 15% of American adults suffer from irritable bowel syndrome but that only about 7% have received a diagnosis for it.
The cause of IBS isn’t exactly known and there can be many possible contributing factors.
The symptoms can include diarrhea, constipation, cramps, bloating and mucus in the stool. But because the root cause of IBS can be difficult to pin down, it’s usually the symptoms that doctors aim to treat. However, there are many quality treatments you don’t need a prescription for, such as JLM Nutritionals IBSolution, which can help alleviate your IBS symptoms.
What to know before you buy an IBS treatment
Different treatments address different symptoms
Not every IBS treatment is right for every person who suffers from IBS. The syndrome manifests itself slightly differently in each individual. Pay attention to what your most frequently occurring or most problematic symptoms are. For some, diarrhea is the major issue, but for others, it’s constipation, severe bloating and gas. While there are some IBS treatments that aim to address all symptoms, most only target one or two symptoms. So consider which symptoms affect you the most and find an IBS treatment that targets that issue.
Long-term vs. temporary treatments
Some IBS treatments are designed to be taken long-term, much like a daily multivitamin or similar supplement. These aim to promote overall better bowel health and restore your intestines to a state of normal functioning. However, some IBS treatments are only meant to be taken short-term to address extreme symptoms. If you find that you need to take a short-term supplement longer than the prescribed time period, speak to your doctor about finding a more sustainable option.
Try to determine the underlying cause
While determining the underlying cause of IBS can require some trial and error and some individuals never find the cause, it is worth trying. For some sufferers, an unknown food allergy can be the culprit. Many individuals consume foods to which they are allergic without realizing it, which can cause symptoms of IBS. Sometimes stress can be the cause of IBS. In some cases, a certain medication could cause symptoms of IBS. Keeping a journal in which you track diet, supplements, medications and when symptoms occur could help you determine the underlying cause.
IBS treatment features
Easily digestible formula
If your IBS treatment comes in a formula that you’ll be resistant to use, then it won’t be of much help. Think of how you like to take medications and supplements. Some like a powder that can be mixed into smoothies and juice. Others prefer a capsule, but will only remember to take it once a day and won’t stick to a regiment that requires taking several pills a day. Some individuals need their IBS treatment in the form of gummies. Be realistic about the formula you’ll be most likely to commit to.
Probiotic blends
For some, a good probiotic blend is all that is needed to address irritable bowel syndrome. Not having the proper healthy bacteria in your gut can throw off the entire digestive system and cause issues like bloat, constipation, diarrhea and cramping. If you do not get enough probiotics from your diet, a complex probiotic blend might be in order. Some IBS treatments contain a probiotic blend within a more complex formula.
Limited to no side effects
An IBS treatment that causes side effects worse than the original issue won’t be of much use. For example, some might find that a treatment made to alleviate constipation causes diarrhea. The best way to minimize the chances of side effects is to find an IBS treatment with all-natural ingredients. Some individuals have to try several IBS treatments before finding the one that most agrees with their bodies and does not cause adverse side effects.
IBS treatment cost
IBS treatment costs vary greatly. Because of the many formula types from powder to capsules to gummies, the variety of strengths and the vast disparity in ingredients from one formula to the other, the price range is wide. One can expect to pay as little as $20 for a treatment or as much as $100.
IBS treatment FAQ
Can IBS be cured permanently?
A. There is not currently a cure for IBS. The best course of action is to treat the symptoms and try to find the underlying cause. Along with supplements and medication, a change in diet might be advisable.
Is IBS life-threatening?
A. IBS is not life-threatening. However, it can greatly affect your quality of life and, for that reason, should be treated.
Which IBS treatment should I get?
Best of the best IBS treatment
JLM Nutritionals IBSolution: Available at Amazon
Our take: This formula is made of all-natural ingredients known to support digestive health.
What we like: This formula is safe to take long-term and comes in a capsule form that users take twice a day. It contains ingredients known to alleviate constipation like papaya powder and psyllium along with those that can soothe an upset stomach like ginger root.
What we dislike: It can have a slight laxative effect for some.
Best bang for your buck IBS treatment
Schiff Digestive Advantage Daily Probiotics + Intensive Bowel Support: Available at iHerb
Our take: This daily probiotic is designed to rebalance the gut bacteria and promote better digestion over time.
What we like: With three types of enzymes and a unique probiotic blend that survives stomach acid effectively, this daily supplement can reduce issues like bloating and constipation over time.
What we dislike: It is not gluten-free.
Honorable mention IBS treatment
Medtrition Banatrol Plus: Available at Amazon
Our take: This IBS treatment can help those who suffer from diarrhea and loose stools.
What we like: This IBS treatment contains a special formula containing banana flakes that can relieve diarrhea and loose stools. It’s not made for long-term use and should be used with the supervision of a doctor.
What we dislike: It can be clumpy when mixed into beverages.
Julia Austin is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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