Wellbeing Nutrition

Stress can be both a cause and an effect of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Constant pain, bloating and unpredictable bowel habits can cause significant disruption to lifestyle and increase any existing stress and anxiety.

The demands of the 21st century often result in relaxation and leisure being relegated to the very bottom of our list of priorities. We all dream about having time off, but even that time, if it ever materialises can end up being filled with a whole host of activities.

People with IBS tend to set very high expectations for themselves and can feel that legitimate time off to relax is just being lazy! If this is you, then give these ideas a try.

• Take a 5 minute break during your working day. This may be trickier than it sounds. Start by taking a few deep breaths and just focussing on them. Even 1 minute spent doing this is a helpful start.

• Take up a hobby, sport or pursuit, ideally away from work and home. Swimming, golf, bingo, football, walking all help to give the mind something to focus on.

• If IBS symptoms mean staying close to home, you can still choose an interest that you can lose yourself in, depending on your tastes. This could be gardening, painting, knitting, writing or DIY. Pursuits that mean that YOU have to get involved and do or create something are best.

• Invest in a relaxation CD or tape. The art of true relaxation takes time to learn, but the investment is worth it.

None of these ideas are intended as a quick fix for IBS, but rather as useful tools for the management and alleviation of symptoms.