IBS Medications

There are currently many possible treatment choices for patients with IBS to try, and research is continually being done to find new effective medications. Nonetheless, many of the commonly used drugs to treat IBS have not been definitively proven to be superior to placebo. An extensive review by Klein of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials performed between 1966 and 1988 found that none of the studies provided sound statistical evidence to suggest that any of the medications used were beneficial in treating IBS, chiefly because of poor trial design and statistical analyses in the published studies. More recent improvements in the design of trials has yielded evidence to support the use of smooth muscle relaxants and antidepressants in pain-predominant IBS, use of the antidiarrheal loperamide for diarrhea, and the use of fiber for constipation. The emergence of combination medications, as well as the increased use of neurotransmitter regulators, will most likely enhance the efficacy of future IBS treatments.

Bowtrol is the only natural remedy that is clinically proven effective for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. If you are suffering from constipation, diarrhea, or both in alteration, abdominal pain, bloating, and heartburn more than once a month, you are not alone. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (also called IBS) affects about 25 million to 50 million people in US alone.

For more information visit: www.bowtrol.com

Cause of irritable bowel syndrome

As discussed previously, irritable bowel syndrome is believed to be due to the abnormal function (dysfunction) of the muscles of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract or the nerves controlling the organs. The nervous control of the gastrointestinal tract, however, is complex. A system of nerves runs the entire length of the gastrointestinal tract from the esophagus to the anus in the muscular walls of the organs. These nerves communicate with other nerves that travel to and from the spinal cord. Nerves within the spinal cord, in turn, travel to and from the brain. (The gastrointestinal tract is exceeded in the numbers of nerves it contains only by the spinal cord and brain.) Thus, the abnormal function of the nervous system in IBS may occur in a gastrointestinal muscular organ, the spinal cord, or the brain.

The nervous system that controls the gastrointestinal organs, as with most other organs, contains both sensory and motor nerves. The sensory nerves continuously sense what is happening within the organ and relay this information to nerves in the organ's wall. From there, information can be relayed to the spinal cord and brain. The information is received and processed in the organ's wall, the spinal cord, or the brain. Then, based on this sensory input and the way the input is processed, commands (responses) are sent to the organ over the motor nerves. Two of the most common motor responses in the intestine are contraction or relaxation of the muscle of the organ and secretion of fluid and/or mucus into the organ.

As already mentioned, abnormal function of the nerves of the gastrointestinal organs, at least theoretically, might occur in the organ, spinal cord, or brain. Moreover, the abnormalities might occur in the sensory nerves, the motor nerves, or at processing centers in the intestine, spinal cord, or brain. Some researchers argue that the cause of functional diseases is abnormalities in the function of the sensory nerves. For example, normal activities, such as stretching of the small intestine by food, may give rise to abnormal sensory signals that are sent to the spinal cord and brain, where they are perceived as pain.

Other researchers argue that the cause of functional diseases is abnormalities in the function of the motor nerves. For example, abnormal commands through the motor nerves might produce a painful spasm (contraction) of the muscles. Still others argue that abnormally functioning processing centers are responsible for functional diseases because they misinterpret normal sensations or send abnormal commands to the organ. In fact, some functional diseases may be due to sensory dysfunction, motor dysfunction, or both sensory and motor dysfunction. Still others may be due to abnormalities within the processing centers One area that is receiving a great deal of scientific attention is the potential role of gas produced by intestinal bacteria in patients with IBS. Studies have demonstrated that patients with IBS produce larger amounts of gas than individuals without IBS, and the gas may be retained longer in the small intestine. Among patients with IBS, abdominal size increases over the day, reaching a maximum in the evening and returning to baseline by the following morning. In individuals without IBS, there is no increase in abdominal size during the day.

There has been a great deal of controversy over the role that poor digestion and/or absorption of dietary sugars may play in aggravating the symptoms of IBS. Poor digestion of lactose, the sugar in milk, is very common as is poor absorption of fructose, a sweetener found in many processed foods. Poor digestion or absorption of these sugars could aggravate the symptoms of IBS since unabsorbed sugars often cause increased formation of gas.

Although these abnormalities in production and transport of gas could give rise to some of the symptoms of IBS, much more work will need to be done before the role of intestinal gas in IBS is clear.

Dietary fat in healthy individuals causes food as well as gas to move more slowly through the stomach and small intestine. Some patients with IBS may even respond to dietary fat in an exaggerated fashion with greater slowing. Thus, dietary fat could--and probably does--aggravate the symptoms of IBS.

For more information visit: www.bowtrol.com

Benefits of a Colon Cleanser

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Cassie_Miller]Cassie Miller

A colon cleanse may seem like an ideal way to improve your health, particularly if you have been experiencing digestive problems such as constipation, diarrhea, or bloating. Many people seem to view a colon cleanse as a negative experience with many uncomfortable side effects. But with today's products on the market, you can experience all of the benefits of a colon cleanser safely and gently. If you are having signs of a bad digestive system, a colon cleanse may be very beneficial to you.

One of the benefits of a colon cleanser is that it can assist in removing very harmful toxins from your body. Built up waste and fecal matter can sit in your colon for years. This build up can release toxins into your body through the walls of the colon. Toxins released into your body can cause a nimbler of problems, such as chronic fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and allergies to name a few. By performing a colon cleanse, you can help to dislodge this build up and along with it, harmful toxins and chemicals.

Another benefit is that many people experience weight loss after a colon cleanse. The average weight loss after a colon cleanse is approximately four pounds. But many people have experienced much more drastic results, such as ten pounds or more of weight loss. Imagine carrying around that much unnecessary waste in your colon! It’s actually not that hard to imagine when you consider the fact that the human colon is approximately 5 feet long.

After removing all of the extra waste and toxins, it’s no surprise that most people have the added benefit of more energy. Those who previously felt persistent fatigue during the day and restless sleep during the night, may find it replaced with energetic days and more restful sleep at night. With less fatigue, you may be able to focus more on your day to day tasks with better concentration. Getting more accomplished during the day, and better sleep at night is a huge benefit of a colon cleanse.

Clearer skin is another benefit. Many have reported acne, eczema, or skin rashes diminishing after a colon cleanse.

Better absorption of vitamins and minerals from your food is an added benefit as well. With your colon clean, you can digest your food more efficiently and absorb the good and not the bad.

If you are suffering from digestive problems such as constipation or diarrhea, a colon cleanse may help to alleviate this. By unclogging the undigested waste and build up from the colon, you are allowing waste to pass more efficiently through your system, which prevents constipation and other digestive issues. Also, after a colon cleanse stomach bloat is usually improved.

Many people also report their allergies or food sensitivities improving after a colon cleanse. Those who experience chronic headaches, backaches, or muscle and joint pain may also find improvement after a colon cleanse.

As you can see, there are many positive benefits of a colon cleanser. Overall, you will feel healthier and your body will thank you for it.

Cassie Miller is the owner of [http://www.topcoloncleansers.com]
TopColonCleansers.com, a website that reviews the top colon cleansers on the
market. Learn more about the benefits of a colon cleanser, and get two
free bottles of a top-rated colon cleanser at [http://www.topcoloncleansers.com]www.topcoloncleansers.com.

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Natural Remedies For Athlete's Foot

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dr._Rita_Louise]Dr. Rita Louise

Are your feet itching and burning? Maybe you have Athlete’s Foot. Athlete’s foot is an infection of the upper layers of the skin and is predominantly found on the foot. It is often seen as an dry, itching, burning, scaling redness of the feet especially in the webbing of the toes. When left unchecked, sufferers may notice that their skin peels frequently and in extreme cases there may be cracking, pain and bleeding of the skin.

While commonly associated with the foot, athlete’s foot can also give rise to skin disorders such as jock-itch. It is caused by the overgrowth of certain types of fungus, including trichophyton, the ringworm fungus or the tinea pedis fungus, each of which can be easily transmitted from one person to the other upon contact. This contagious condition thrives in warm, moist environments and without the proper growing conditions; it will not survive at all.

Athlete’s foot is often transmitted when we walk around barefoot at public pools or in public showers, in locker or changing rooms, in home bathrooms, especially in the shower. It can also thrive in individuals who’s feet sweat excessively, who wear the same shoes without allowing them to fully dry out or when the feet are not dried thoroughly before covering them. Interestingly, this disorder is seen more often in teenagers and adult males.

In health circles, it is generally believed that prevention is the best course of action to take. If however, you do end up with a case of athlete’s foot, there are a number of natural and alternative health remedies you can employ.

Recommendations For Wellness

Avoid all yeast containing foods: yeast breads, fermented beverages (beer, wine, brandy, scotch, etc.) moldy cheeses, fermented vinegars, salad dressing, peanuts, biscuits, canned citrus fruit juices, cake mix, ice cream, all dried fruit, oranges, pickles, tomato sauce, sugars, yeast powder, processed and smoked meats, malt products, barbecue sauce, olives, mayonnaise, and chili peppers.

Avoid sugar (especially hidden sugars such as those found in soft drinks, pastries, canned fruits and vegetables), artificial sweeteners, and all refined carbohydrates.

Supplementation with a probiotic such as acidophilus can help to restore the good bacteria in the body and help protect you from infection.

If you are at the gym or at a public pool, wear sandals in the locker room, in the shower and in the pool area.

Wear cotton socks and if your feet tend to sweat, change them often, making sure you dry your feet well before putting on a fresh pair.

Sprinkle baking soda on your feet before putting your socks on to help absorb moisture.

When the weather is hot and humid, go barefoot or in sandals whenever possible.

Be sure to air your shoes out at night to allow any moisture in them to evaporate. If possible don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day.

A tincture of black walnut can be applied directly to the affected areas of the feet and toes to help kill the fungus.

Lemon balm, rosemary or a mixture of lavender oil and tea tree oil can be used externally to help eradicate the infection.

Herbs such as goldenseal, pau d’ arco, olive leaf extract or garlic can be taken internally to help heal the infection. They can also be applied externally the affected areas or by soaking the feet in a herbal bath made from these substances.

Some experts recommend adding grapefruit seed extract to your wash, especially when you are cleaning your socks, gym clothes, bath mat or towels.

© Copyright Body, Mind & SoulHealer – www.soulhealer.com 2007. All rights reserved.

Dr. Rita Louise, Ph D is a Naturopathic Physician, founder of the [http://www.appliedenergeticsinstitute.com]Institute Of Applied Energetics and the host of Just Energy Radio. Author of the books “Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4” and “The Power Within”, it is her unique gift as a medical intuitive and professional clairvoyant that enlivens her work. Let Dr. Rita assist you bringing health, healing and wholeness back into your life. Visit http://www.soulhealer.com or listen live online to Dr. Rita on [http://www.soulhealer.com/Just_Energy/just_energy_radio.htm]http://www.JustEnergyRadio.com.

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Alternative Health Treatments That Work

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Steve_Hill]Steve Hill

Alternative health treatments are becoming ever more popular and acceptable in our modern day world. I have to admit that until recently I was one of the many sceptics of anything to do with alternative health therapy but have since seen the light. This is because a good friend of mine persuaded me to give reflexology a try and since this positive experience I have experimented with hypnotherapy, aromatherapy, reiki, tai chi and meditation. In this article I will write about my experiences and findings.

The friend in question is in fact my best friend called Ian. He has always been a bit different, he was the first person in the class to dye his hair, get an ear ring, go to a night club, I think you maybe getting the message now. For many years he would tell me about how superb reflexology was and how great and relaxed it made him feel. You should have a go, he would often say to me.

Despite the fact that we are best friends, I am actually quite different to Ian. Where as he is quite daring and open to new ideas, I am quite shy and reserved. I like things as they are and see no reason as to why they should change.

A couple of years ago however I was in a bit of a bad way, I do not want to go into too much detail but lets just say that I was rather depressed and could not seem to drag myself out of the rut that I was in.

Ian tried to help me as best as he could and eventually managed to convince me to phone his reflexologist to book a session. I reluctantly went to see this chap and have to now admit that Ian was right, I could not believe how great I felt afterwards.

I then went a bit mad and tried other forms of alternative health therapy as mentioned in the opening paragraph of this article. My favourite has to be meditation as it helps me to think in a more rounded, logical and positive manner.

Stephen Hill runs The How To Stop Stammering Centre, he has a number of websites including: [http://www.stammering-stuttering.co.uk]stuttering information [http://www.dementia-symptom.co.uk]symptoms of dementia [http://www.alternative-therapy.co.uk]alternative therapy treatments in the UK

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Herbal and Natural Remedies for Colon Problems

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Burns-Millyard]Kathy Burns-Millyard

Finding natural solutions to maintaining colon health is obviously a great approach. Introducing chemical-based prescription medications into the body can have adverse affects. Many people believe that the benefits of taking laxatives or over the counter enemas far outweighs any harm they may experience as a result of the chemicals that compromise these solutions. A much better and healthier approach is to seek out a natural solution. Some effective herbal remedies for colon health include:

Garlic. This has become something of a wonder herbal remedy in recent years as more and more people are recognizing the positive benefits of adding garlic to their diet. Garlic has been shown to help reduce the chances of developing pre-cancerous polyps in the colon. It is also believed that people who eat garlic on a regular basis or those who take garlic supplements are less likely to develop colon cancer.

Green tea. Another herb that has become a focal point for those looking for a natural alternative to traditional medicine. In terms of colon health, green tea is believed to help reduce a person's risk of developing cancer in their colon.

Grape seed extract. Recent studies have shown that consuming grape seed extract can actually slow the progression of cancer cells in the colon. For someone with a history of colon cancer in their family, adding this natural substance to their daily diet can be worthwhile.

Turmeric. A fundamental ingredient in curry, this herb is proving to be an ally in the fight against colon cancer. Taking a supplement that contains turmeric can help to reduce the risk of polyps adhering to the wall of the colon.

Ginger. Another spice that is an integral part of many dishes, this substance has proven to be effective in continued health in the colon. Adding ginger to the diet as a spice can help prevent the development of cancer cells within the colon. Although it can be taken as a supplement in capsule form, it's much better tasting and easier to absorb when added as an ingredient during cooking.

One natural remedy for continued colon health is Vitamin D. In its most natural form, Vitamin D is derived from direct sunlight. Many people believe this is the best way for the body to absorb it. If this is the approach that the individual takes, they should be aware of the damaging effects of the sun on skin cells and therefore using a sunscreen is recommended. Vitamin D can also be taken in the form of a daily supplement. It is also found in many foods and is often added to orange juice as well.

Calcium should also be taken in a supplement form in an effort to improve colon health in general. Many people find it difficult to drink milk products because of intolerance to lactose. If the person has irritable bowel syndrome it becomes even more difficult to comfortably eat or drink dairy products. In addition to being a natural remedy for colon problems, calcium is also essential for strong bones, which helps to prevent osteoporosis later in life.

Note: Statements in this article may not be approved by the FDA, and should not be considered as professional medical advice.

© 2007, Kathy Burns-Millyard. Would you like to know more about natural colon cleansing? Our free, in-depth special report explains much more about how important colon cleansing is to your health, plus it provides easy techniques for using foods, water, and specific herbal supplements too. Visit http://www.amoh.org/Colon-Health/ to read the report now!

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