One of the top ten complaints that primary care providers deal with is symptoms associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). These conditions affect up to 20% of the population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. IBS can cause a wide range of symptoms, though the main ones include:

• Abdominal discomfort/pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation

No cure is currently available for IBS, but there are ways to alleviate the symptoms and feel better.

Many people find that probiotics help to improve their IBS symptoms. Probiotics are microorganisms we eat that may provide health benefits. These active cultures, such as some strains of lactic acid bacteria, help reintroduce or change bacteria in the intestines. This functional component may boost immunity and overall health, especially of the digestive tract.

Although the effects of probiotics can vary widely from one person to the next, other benefits of probiotics may include:

• Helping to prevent specific allergy symptoms
• Shortening the duration of diarrhea
• Reducing symptoms of lactose intolerance
• Decreasing the risk of some cancers

So where can you find probiotics?  Dairy products such as yogurt, kefir products and aged cheeses as well as non-dairy foods including sauerkraut, miso, tempeh and soy beverages are readily available at the super market.  Dietitians recommend food sources of probiotics, which offer other nutrients.  For example, yogurt also contains protein, Vitamins A and D, and calcium. Probiotic tablets, capsules and powders that provide the bacteria in a freeze-dried form can also be found at local health stores.

-sl, rb