One in five Northern Americans has irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which makes it one of the most common disorders diagnosed today. Irritable bowel syndrome usually hits the person around age 20 and is more common among women than in men.

Irritable bowel syndrome is actually a disease, although doctors consider it a functional disorder. However, even though the syndrome can cause considerable pain and discomfort, it does not actually damage the digestive system.

Irritable bowel syndrome disturbs the normal functions of the colon, particularly how the muscles in the intestines work, causing a lot of embarrassment and pain. Irritable bowel syndrome does not cause internal bleeding, but may worsen a medical condition if you already have one.

No one really knows why certain people develop IBS. Researchers believe that people with Irritable bowel syndrome have sensitive colons that react to aggravating foods and certain emotional conditions, most commonly, to stress, conflict, or upsets. Antidepressants are often used to relieve stress-related irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Some doctors link colon sensitivity to weak immune systems.

No cure has been found yet for irritable bowel syndrome. Your doctor might prescribe fiber supplements or occasional laxatives to ease constipation, as well as medicines to help with diarrhea, or drugs that calm down abdominal pain, but careful eating is the most important step in reducing irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Many irritable bowel syndrome sufferers can successfully control their symptoms with simple diet changes. Quite often, when you increase your fiber intake, Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms are relieved.

Eating more fiber can be easier than you think. Whole grain breads and cereals, fruits, and vegetables are both delicious and rich in healthy fiber. Fiber-rich diet results in regular bowel movements and better colon cleansing. However, fiber will make you feel worse if you have pain or diarrhea because high-fiber diets may cause some discomfort at first, but do not panic. You simply need a few days to adjust to the new diet. Positive changes take time if your colon is more irritated than normally.

When starting fiber-rich diet, stick to plain foods like white rice, plain unflavored oatmeal, rice cereal, pasta, peeled potatoes. Incorporate insoluble fibers carefully by blending fresh fruit with soy or rice milk making delicious and nutritious cocktails. You can always add vegetables into soups or pasta sauces. Grilled, not fried, fish filet or low-fat chicken breast goes well with your pasta or rice. Eat fruits and vegetables as much as possible. To increase fiber intake, drink psyllium or flaxseed dissolved in water, such as Citrucel or Metamucil.

In general, try eating foods that are low in fat and high in carbohydrates, such as whole grain pasta and breads, unprocessed (not quick-cooking) rice and cereals. Avoid food that is high in fat, insoluble fiber, caffeine, coffee, carbonation, or alcohol.

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