The book follows a systematic, team approach to the management of 'Irritable Bowel' (they drop the word 'syndrome' for it's negative connotations and confusing terminology). I found the language clear and easy to follow. The writing conveyed a non patronising approach whilst encouraging the reader to take responsibility. Dietry advice is given for specific symptoms and I feel this may help the reader to pinpoint symptoms and develop their own management plan. There is LOTS of useful information in this book and I feel it represents very good value for money.

I initially struggled to get started and felt a little overwhelmed by the amount of detail. I would like there to be chapter summaries and action plans in subsequent editions to help guide ones own management strategy and this is why I have given the book 4 stars instead of 5.


Ease of use   March 30, 2005
 26 out of 26 found this review helpful

I've suffered from IBS for about 3.5 years now, and went through a lot of exams (some of them painfull and unpleasant) to finally have no real answers to my questions. I didn't know what IBS was and unfortunately didn't find the proper doctor to explain it to me, and more importantly what I had to do to get rid of my problems. By reading some of the reviews on this book I relized this is what I needed.

This is a very comprehensive guide and easy to use. There is no secret magical treatment described in it, but commun sense and logical healthy food and diet recommendations. I'm still going through the exrcices and follow the diets, and it's already going better. Patience is the key to this disorder, however, this book will make it easier.

By reading this, I actualy realized I was eating wrong since more than 2 years and that might be the cause of the problem.

I strongly advise you to purchase this book if you suffer from bloating, abdominal pains, gas, etc and you don't know what to do anymore. A great discovery, thx...


If you only buy one IBS book make it this one   June 30, 2002
 48 out of 48 found this review helpful

IBS is a very difficult subject as symptoms and causes vary so much. This is by far the best book I have read on the subject.

I disagree with the reader from Missouri, that this covers nothing above the belly button. My most obvious and troublesome symptoms are nausea, wind and reflux: this is the first book I have found which gives specific dietary guidelines for different symptoms, including prevention of gas and reflux. Because the dietary advice is specific to the symptoms it gives added confidence to resist people who try to insist you eat / drink inappropriate things, reducing the stress involved.

The advice is sensible, practical and covers the different aspects of the problem expertly. If you only buy one IBS book make it this one. If I had bought this first I'd have saved a lot of time and money.


A life changing book for IBS sufferers!   June 22, 2001
 44 out of 44 found this review helpful

Since I have followed up the, very clear and concise, tips in this book, my life has changed beyond recognition! I used to suffer so much every day, even though I stuck to a healthy, low fat diet. This book made me realize what I was doing wrong (e.g. eating lots of salads). I avoid most trigger foods now, eat a high fibre, healthy diet with lots of fruit and (cooked!) vegetables, drink lots of water and excercise most days. I sometimes listen to my relaxing tape, when I feel a little stressed. Since using this book, I feel a new, happy person, who does not need any medication to cope with my day. Get this book now, if you are serious about doing something to relieve your IBS!!


Excellent Original guide to IBS   June 15, 1999
 16 out of 16 found this review helpful

This book is one of the best books to come along in years on IBS. It is written by a team of specialist which address the complexity of IBS. It brings together a gastroenterologist, a registered dietician, and a psychologist. The most original contributions are written by the psychologist, showing how mind-body approaches and awareness can go a long way to helping those with IBS. The book also helps you diagnose your unique pattern of symptoms and develop a treatment plan to address them.