From Publishers Weekly
Because IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome (symptoms include chronic gas, stomach pain, and diarrhea alternating with constipation), is not life-threatening, doctors tend to give IBS patients short shrift. But Shimberg, a medical writer, does what we wish more physicians would: she discusses the problem fully and in an accessible manner. After establishing reader rapport by proclaiming herself a fellow IBS sufferer, she shares what she has learned from interviewing doctors and consulting medical literature. Shimberg discusses the physical abnormality that accounts for IBS, and reports that though the problem is incurable, symptoms can be curbed. Since the key to relief lies in controlling diet and stress, the book gives instructions for detecting "trigger" foods (e.g., wheat) and offers advice, of the pop-psychological sort, for making lifestyle changes and reducing stress ("It's important to learn to become assertive because it makes us feel better"). The author's saving graces are a chatty style and willingness to speak frankly on an indelicate subject. Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.


Book Description
"Excellent."
WILLIAM A. WHITEHEAD, Ph.D.
THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
"If you're bright, working hard, pushing fast -- and feeling a debilitating ache in your gut that comes and goes -- you may be one of the more than 22 million Americans, most of them women, suffering symptoms that are NOT life-threatening and CAN be relieved."
-- from RELIEF FROM IBS
At last, here is a practical, straightforward guide that will help you gain mastery over the frustrations of IBS and simplify your life. Inside you'll find all the information you need, including: The various causes of IBS and how you can minimize their effects; how to identify harmful stresses in your life and significantly reduce their impact; how to design a diet that is both healthful AND pleasurable, and much more.



From the Inside Flap
"Excellent."
WILLIAM A. WHITEHEAD, Ph.D.
THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
"If you're bright, working hard, pushing fast -- and feeling a debilitating ache in your gut that comes and goes -- you may be one of the more than 22 million Americans, most of them women, suffering symptoms that are NOT life-threatening and CAN be relieved."
-- from RELIEF FROM IBS
At last, here is a practical, straightforward guide that will help you gain mastery over the frustrations of IBS and simplify your life. Inside you'll find all the information you need, including: The various causes of IBS and how you can minimize their effects; how to identify harmful stresses in your life and significantly reduce their impact; how to design a diet that is both healthful AND pleasurable, and much more.

FROM THE PUBLISHER