Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

-- I had the same problem. I'm a D. You didn't say, but I assume you're a D?

Every morning I'd wake up with cramps -- sometimes the cramps would actually wake me up. Very annoying. Like you, they went away after I went to the pot (although sometimes it took several visits, if you know what I mean), and usually I was okay for the rest of the day.

Things changed for me when my IBS got better. Now I have only normal poop cramps, and only just before I go to the pot, and disappear after I "perform."

What worked for me was patience. I stopped worrying about it so much (thanks to Michael's hypnotherapy program), followed the program (and stopped cheating!), switched fiber supplement from Citrucel to acacia, and began taking probiotics. Also, Michael was right -- my regular morning cramps had everything to do with fear about it, worrying that I'd be cramped up all day.

It sounds like you're not taking a soluble fiber supplement since you doctor recommended Metamucil -- is that right? If so, you should re-read the portion of Heather's book about supplements, because it's very important. And whichever kind you choose, make sure you're taking enough of it (I was taking WAAAAY too little), and if you're not taking enough, increase it VERRRRRY gradually.

While I can understand your food fear, I do not think it is a good idea to eat the same thing day after day. You need variety and nutrients from different foods. You're also missing out -- it's fun to try different recipes. And you must know there are a lot of "safe ones," as you put it.

You're doing the right thing by reading as much as you can and staying here on the boards where people can help you.

Bev

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<img src="http://home.comcast.net/~letsrow/smily3481.gif">Bevvy

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