WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT... IBS symptoms?

Around one in five people in the UK suffers from

IBS, according to BUPA. But there are ways to minimise painful symptoms, says nutritional therapist Marilia Chamon (gutfulnessnutrition.com).

“It’s important to get diagnosed and rule out other medical conditions, so first see your GP,” she says. “Keep a food diary and pay attention to how you feel after each meal. Monitor your stress levels and see how that affects your symptoms.

“If you do strenuous exercise consider slowing down for a few days and check if symptoms improve.”

Ginger or peppermint tea can help – ginger reduces gas and peppermint releases muscle tension. “Try some deep breathing, as this activates the parasympathetic nervous system [rest, digest, relax mode] and calms everything down,” says Marilia. “I always advise people to embrace the bloat. Don’t hold your tummy in as that will create more muscle tension and worsen things.”

Walking and meditation can also be beneficial.