Digestive upset

[uknlv]

I frequently suffer from diarrhea as a result of my scleroderma, about once a week, and can not take any normal medications for it as this will make me constipated for about a week! Does anyone else have this problem? And does anyone know of any natural and not so severe ways to cure the problem?

I suppose I should of put this in the questions but it seemed better as a blog!

[Ruth462]

Have you tried avoiding wheat?

It has made such a difference to me

I've been tested and I'm not coeliac but just giving up bread and pasta helped, really helped.

[Steph]

Hi,

I often swing between diarrhea and constipation. I too find cutting out wheat helps and also I add benefibre powder to my tea each morning, which helps stop me getting constipated

[Rach18]

There are a number of herbal supplements which could help, but as with most things it's a case of what works for one person doesn't necessarily work for another. Aloe Vera, probiotics, B vitamins and certain herbs are all said to be helpful, I'd recommend asking in a good health food shop, but it may be a case of trial and error. I've found that cutting down on wheat definitely helps me but dairy products are also common irritants of the digestive system, and for me so is stress which I try my best to limit but I'm not very good at that one!

[uknlv]

Thanks for all the suggestions everyone, I will give them a go! With my new diet I do not eat much wheat or dairy products. But I find I also have trouble with large amounts of ruffage veg and some fruits

[HelenL]

I am now gluten and lactose free and am feeling much better- still not sure if the problem is ibs or related to my Scleroderma.

I avoid large meals as I find I get uncomfortably full very quickly. Haven't lost any weight tho- shame!

Hope you are ok uknlv.