Introducing Gastrodoxs to you as your preferred choice in terms of digestive health in Houston. You are in the right place, and you are looking to find easy ideas to alleviate the symptoms of the IBS. This post presents three simple, home based suggestions on how to cope with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). You will also hear some wisdom of one of the top Houston gastroenterologists, Dr. Bharat Pothuri.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a long-term backache of the large intestine that may result in:
Though IBS is a common condition with an estimated 10-15% prevalence in adults it is different in individuals. Stress and local food preferences can cause an exacerbation in the hot, wet climate of Houston. And you are not alone, and you can do so by studying at home IBS self-care strategies to help you in managing the symptoms.
According to Dr. Bharat Pothuri, Houston Digestive Health, IBS is not a life-threatening disease, but it may be a life-altering one. Basic changes in lifestyle tend to be a big relief.According to Dr. Bharat Pothuri, Houston Digestive Health, IBS is not a life-threatening disease, but it may be a life-altering one. Basic changes in lifestyle tend to be a big relief.
To learn more about the basics of IBS, visit the IBS overview of Mayo Clinic.
Food is an enormous factor in the list of tips on how to cope with IBS flare-up. You can lessen gas, bloating and unpredictable bowel movements by making minor adjustments. The following are three of the basic dietary tips to manage IBS symptoms:
Dr. Pothuri also contributes that many patients of IBS can ease the digestive system by switching to smaller, more frequent meals which can decrease the bloating effect.
| Trigger Foods | Relief Foods | Why It Helps |
| Wheat bread | Rice cakes | Less gas in FODMAPs |
| Garlic/onions | Chives, garlic-infused oil | Flavor without the fructans |
| Whole fat dairy | Almond milk, lactose-free milk | Easier to digest |
| Beans, legumes | Firm tofu, lentil pasta | Lower gas production |
IBS and stress are usually associated. The feeling of stress in your body may alter gut motility and sensitivity. The following are some self-care strategies at home in order to help you relax:
Dr. Pothuri stated that 10 minutes of relaxation a day can reduce the stress cues to the gut and lessen the flare-ups.
Working out assists in controlling the digestion process, stress reduction, and wellness. To people who are saying, how to get relief of irritable bowel syndrome, a routine of regular and gentle exercise may prove to be a game changer:
Dr. Pothuri is reminding us that regular moderate exercise sends all clear signals to the brain and gut, which help in smoothing irregular bowel movements.
| Characteristic | Low-FODMAP Diet | Normal Diet |
| Gas/Bloating | Frequently improved in 2-4 weeks | Can still persist, with trigger foods ingested |
| Fiber Intake | Adaptable (target soluble fiber) | Combined soluble and insoluble fiber |
| Meal Planning | Needs monitoring of permitible foods | Flexible and risk of triggers |
| Social ease of eating | Prep/outland preferences are required to be made in advance | Easy when at restaurants and events |
| Long-Term Sustainability | Can be personalized once eliminated | No formal structure |
Monash University has more detailed advice on low-FODMAP diets.
Here is to warmer weather and easier digesting here in Houston!
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic digestive disorder of the large bowel (colon). It's responsible for symptoms such as: Abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation. IBS is globally common with an estimated global prevalence of 10-15% in adults, which often involve diet and stress as a contributing factor.
Common triggers are high FODMAP foods (e.g. garlic, onions, beans, wheat), dairy foods containing lactose, sugar alcohols (e.g. sorbitrol), spicy or fried foods, stress, hormonal changes and lack of sleep.
A warm cup of peppermint tea, a brief walk and mindful breathing are all strategies to promote quick relief. Treatment includes lifelong changes in nutrition and stress reduction techniques and mild exercise.
Yes. Supplements that can be ordered without a prescription include fiber supplements, anti-diarrheal medicines, and gas relieving tablets. Always consult your doctor or Houston gastroenterologist before taking on any new medication.
Some people get relief using probiotics. Look for live culture yogurts or supplements with strains such as Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 that have been studied in improving IBS symptoms.
Some of the most important self-care at home things to do are keeping a food and symptom diary, stress-management methods (deep breathing, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation), drinking plenty of fluids, getting plenty of sleep, and moderate exercise.
A low-FODMAP diet can have a great effect in gas and bloating. It is usually preceded by a 2 to 6 week elimination period, during which time the diet can be gradually expanded in order to determine individual triggers.
With some preparation, take care to bring safe snacks, like rice cakes or nuts, which you can take to the bathroom to help deal with panic or stress-provoking situations that come up while you're out, and use breathing techniques or brief walks to calm yourself down and prevent a flare-up.
Yes. Consult a healthcare professional before adjusting your usual dietary habits to promote easier digestion, no constipation, and healthy overall gut performance with 8-10 cups (64-80 oz) of water or herbal tea on a daily basis.
Check with your healthcare provider or GI specialist if you develop severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss or extending to the night. Diagnosis and treatment should be done as soon as possible.
