subject: Overactive Bowel Explained – Don't Consider It As At Of Aging [print this page] If you are suffering from irregularity, and it's persistent, then you may have a condition known as overactive bowel. This form of incontinence, like all forms of incontinence is not an illness of and unto itself but a symptom of an underlying condition, one that could be quite serious. Any number of diseases or conditions can cause overactive bowel including diverticulosis, diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, colitis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Crohn's disease is a very serious condition and can strike at any age. While medication has been successful in some cases, a colostomy may be the only way to cure the condition.
So just what are the symptoms of overactive bowel? If you notice a frequent need to pass stools, runny stools, blood in the stool or persistent diarrhea or constipation then you need to see your health care provider for a diagnosis.
Assuming that you condition is not caused by a disease, then your diet becomes a major factor. Every expert in digestive medicine will agree that fiber plays a huge role in the health of the digestive tract and that most people simply do not get enough fiber, or the right kind of fiber, to have the digestive system work at optimal performance.
There are two types of fiber, soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber forms a gel when mixed with water and slows down the digestive process. It tends to harden loose stools. In addition, soluble fiber binds to fats found in the digestive tract and plays an important role in having the fats pass out of the body. Natural sources of this fiber include peas, citrus fruit, apples and strawberries.
Insoluble fiber retains water and makes the stool softer preventing constipation. Sources of this type of fiber include whole grains, seeds, popcorn and most vegetables. Obviously it is important to strike a balance between the two types of fiber to insure regularity.
Your doctor is the best source to develop a therapy or a prescribed diet to manage or cure your overactive bowel condition.
Overactive Bowel Explained Don't Consider It As At Of Aging
