Question : MY 16-year-old son has been suffering from irritable bowel syndrome for the past four years. He has stomach cramps all the time, sometimes very painful. Due to this he has missed many days of school. He has seen many doctors and specialists and gone for the usual tests. Medication has not helped. He took a food intolerance test, which indicates he has intolerance for milk and potatoes.

Answer : YOU can try probiotics capsules that are lactose free, suitable for people suffering from milk intolerance. Other products that may help ease the symptoms include double strength fish oil containing marine fish oil derived from sardines and anchovies. Smaller fish such as these contain oils lower in environmental toxins than large predatory fish such as tuna and cod. Milk thistle and dandelion are good for constipation, besides being liver tonics.

Diet and lifestyle modifications can also help. Stick to a gluten-free diet. Avoid all foods made from wheat, rye, barley and oats except rice, millet and corn. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and fish. Set aside time after breakfast or dinner for undisturbed visits to the toilet.

His diet should be high in complex carbohydrates and fibre that includes beans, bran and whole grains. Avoid oranges as these are known to trigger diarrhoea. Sugar and refined carbohydrates (white rice, white bread, and noodles) must not be taken as they contribute to increased inflammatory action for IBS sufferers. Learn to relax as stress can worsen the condition. Try to exercise regularly.