I meet a broad range of people seeking help with an equally wide range of disorders. Not surprisingly, many of them are suffering from what are termed common disorders. These are conditions which seem particularly prevalent within the population, and are frequently chronic in nature. High on the list are Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), migraine, eczema and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). By the time I see a client for the first time they have usually been told that nothing can be done to help them. Nutritional therapy offers an alternative approach. Let us take IBS as an example. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is the official name given to inflammation within the colon, when all other serious colon conditions have been ruled out. Patients may feel reassured, but debilitating discomfort can still seriously impede their lives. Symptoms can include severe diarrhoea, constipation, cramps, bloating or all of these IBS symptoms can include severe diarrhoea, constipation, cramps, bloating or all of these. An inflamed colon often manifests in other ways too, such as fatigue and skin problems. Of course, every client must be treated individually, but a typical treatment would begin with drinking plenty of pure water every day, to help re-hydrate the colon. Golden linseeds, soaked in water overnight could be taken each morning to help soothe inflammation of the Gastrointestinal Tract as well as adding bulk and aiding peristalsis. This is the term used to describe the natural rippling, wave-like movement of the colon. Irregular movements may be felt as abdominal cramps, a common feature of IBS. Aloe Vera juice is an excellent internal anti-inflammatory and can be taken daily in water or juice. Herbal teas such as peppermint, camomile and Irish Moss can also be very soothing. Whilst diets are prepared in consultation with each client, I would normally recommend avoiding high concentrations of meat, dairy and wheat products, and any food or drink which noticeably worsens the symptoms. |
