Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Weight Gain

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is categorized as a disorder of the colon that is not functioning properly. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a very common condition, one that is most primarily characterized by certain symptoms, such as cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, whitish mucous in the blood, and fatigue.

In addition to these symptoms, weight gain is one of the most common symptoms associated with the condition.

How to lose weight associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

As with any need for change in ones life the first step is to recognize a problem exists and to be willing to confront it.

We cannot change what we are unwilling to admit to or confront. Keep in mind that although this weight gain is due to a bonafide medical condition (thus easily justified), and not a consequence of merely a lack of discipline, overeating, and overindulging oneself, being overweight still poses medical risks.

It is important to maintain a normal weight for good health and longevity. That being said, there are a few things an individual can do that has gained weight from Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Diet is a major contributing factor in irritable bowel syndrome. Because diet plays such a major role in the symptoms of IBS, it plays as large a role in controlling and relieving its symptoms.

In order to control and find relief from the debilitating symptoms associated with this malady, and the weight gain that is commonly connected with it, it will be necessary to make changes in the diet.

It will be necessary to remove certain types of food from the daily diet. For instance fatty and sugary food, in addition to those that have a high caffeine content, should be eliminated. Foods that are high in yeast content, dairy products, spicy foods, grains, corn, and rice should also be removed from the diet.

On the other hand, there are foods that are not only permissible but advisable. Feel free to consume plenty of vegetables. Fresh fruits are also nutritious and are a pleasant addition to any diet.

At the same time it is necessary to increase the intake of fiber in the diet, it is equally as necessary when doing so to be careful to drink a minimum of six to eight glasses of water a day (to avoid constipation.)

Physical exercise is another must in losing weight (whether or not it is associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome.)

Cardiovascular exercise is highly effective and strongly recommended. Cardiovascular exercise stimulates the metabolism (naturally), burns calories and excess body fat, and contributes to overall goodheart health. It reduces the risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

For individuals that do not feel comfortable with exactly how and what to change in their diets, there are any number of licensed dieticians and nutritionists that are educated in this field and able to create and customize diet plans on an individual basis.

For those that are motivated and willing to make changes and put forth the effort needed, losing weight asociated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome does not have to be difficult.

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