IMPORTANT
Unless otherwise stated on the package, most supplements and herbal remedies aren’t suitable for children under 12.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

What you need to know:

This painful condition can be particularly stressful to teenagers, who should be embarking on the most challenging and exciting part of their lives rather than worrying about what’s happening to their bowels. IBS seems to have grown to almost epidemic proportions in recent years - but it’s another condition for which research at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge has shown that naturopathic nutrition is a more effective treatment than conventional medication.

Dietary changes that may be beneficial:

Although foods such as wheat and dairy can cause digestive problems, it is wise before eliminating any major food groups, to seek advice from a registered naturopath, state registered dietician or degree-qualified nutritionist to make sure you’re replacing the nutrients from other sources. This is so important, especially in growing children and teenagers.

The most useful Herbs:

There are herbs, supplements and other therapies which help. These include:

Homoeopathy

The homoeopathic remedies Lycopodium, Nux vom and Pulsatilla have been beneficial for many people.

Aromatherapy

The Aromatherapy essential oils Neroli, Roman chamomile and Rose - use them, properly diluted, as a massage oil or put them in the bath.

Other useful advice:

If you suspect that stress is causing your child’s IBS, Acupuncture, Yoga, or any exercise which they find relaxing could help.

IBS frequently begins after a severe bout of food poisoning, or diarrhoea following a course of antibiotics. In both instances, replacing the natural gut bacteria by eating bio yoghurt and taking a combined pre- and probiotic preparation is your best chance of preventing the onset of IBS.

But although soluble fibre, as in oats, is essential during a constipated phase of IBS, never add spoonfuls of bran to your food or use bran-enriched products - wheat bran can be extremely irritant if taken in large quantities.

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This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk).
The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.