Advertisement

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Self Help and Support Group
a trusted community for IBS sufferers

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Book Reviews

Advertisement

 
The IBS Self Help and Support Group has not endorsed and makes no warranty as to the accuracy of the information contained within the listed books and assumes no liability related to their use. Books are listed from newest to oldest in each category.

Authors and Publishers: We would be pleased to consider your publication for our book list. Please send an evaluation copy to us using our Canadian address.

 

General IBS Information



An Essential guide to IBS Relief

Written for sufferers by the
founder and members of the
IBS Self Help and Support Group

IBS Chat - Publisher's Choice IBS Chat - Reader's Choice IBS Chat - Publisher's Choice
 

IBS Chat: Real Life Stories and Solutions
Barbara Bradley Bolen, PhD and Jeffrey D. Roberts, MSEd, iUniverse Inc., 2007
ISBN 0595398278
View: Table of Contents, Introduction, Chapter 1
Purchase:
Also available on-line from: Barnes and Noble
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - What a lifesaver!
I wish I had found this book 15 years ago. My husband has suffered from IBS and it has had a very negative impact on our social life. He is also the type who would never read a book to get help. IBS Chat has been a lifesaver! The chapters are broken up in such a way that I could easily point to the sections that would be most helpful to him. The easy-to-read style and the fact that these were real people offering advice made him open up to try new ways of dealing with his IBS. He and I have been struggling with this on our own for so long, it is great to feel that we can finally make some progress.

"Jeffrey Roberts and Dr. Barbara Bolen have done a remarkable job of compiling key comments, from all over the world, about IBS and the functional GI disorders. The information is well-organized, readable, and informative. I believe this book also helps to provide emotional support: the reader learns that he or she is "not alone" during those times when the symptoms are distressing or difficult to manage," Dr. Douglas Drossman, Medical Director, UNC Center for Functional GI and Motility Disorders.
Read more reviews....



Probiotics and Digestive Health: A Gastroenterologist's Perspective
Eamonn M. Quigley, MD, Health Point Press, 2008
ISBN 0977435660
Purchase:
Website: http://www.probioticsanddigestivehealth.com
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - A clear language book which explains how you can naturally rebalance your digestive system with probiotics to help control IBS.
Dr. Quigley, a world-renowned Gastroenterologist, explains in easy-to-read language how probiotics (good bacteria) interacts with our body's immune system through our gut, to help regulate our digestive health. Dr. Quigley explains how his research and studies with a particular strain of bacteria, Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 (Bifantis), have shown strong evidence to ease the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome as well as Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. This is a unique book which helps to demystify the complex interaction that each of our bodies share with the billions of good and bad bacteria that roam our guts. I highly recommend this book.
 



Why Doesn't My Doctor Know This?: Conquering Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Crohn's Disease and Colitis
David Dahlman, Morgan James Publishing, 2008
ISBN 160037316X
Purchase:
Website: http://www.drdahlman.com
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - Good pointers for identifying diet and intolerances which may be bothering you.
I believe David Dahlman has a genuine interest in helping individuals who suffer from digestive illnesses. Dahlman's own clinic and his popular website are frequented by those looking for solutions to their illnesses. Those that he has helped are very supportive of his techniques. His book is a culmination of the material that he shares with his patients. I found his book to be well written and a pretty easy read. Although Dahlman is a chiropractor physician, rather than a medical doctor, he writes about many traditional suggestions in his important Step-by-Step Thought Process chapter which you may in fact also learn from a good traditional physician who cares like Dahlman does. Many of his steps center on diet and intolerances that sufferers may not be aware of and also of bacteria levels in your gut that become out of whack. Bacteria levels are a popular mainstream target of investigation right now. He has good pointers for identifying and avoiding intolerances. One major area that he stays away from, in the traditional sense, is the prescribing of medicines and his apparent negative view of the pharmaceutical industry. He believes that the pharmaceutical industry is guessing at ways to mask the symptoms of IBS, without getting to the cause. A true statement, since right now nobody has identified the cause of IBS; however, the pharmaceutical industry in my opinion is just as interested in helping individuals who suffer from digestive illnesses just like Dahlman. Dahlman writes two very useful chapters, Alternative Medicine Techniques to Avoid and Laboratory Tests, both chapters which many IBS sufferers should read so that they may understand the reasons that these techniques and tests may not have provided the results that they were looking for. In summary, I recommend this book and hope that it provides some relief for your symptoms.
 



Controlling IBS the Drug-Free Way: A 10-Step Plan for Symptom Relief
Dr. Jeffrey M. Lackner, STC Healthy Living, 2007
ISBN 1584795751
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - The best self managed approach to coping with IBS symptoms that I have ever read.
Written by an expert who has taken 20 years of IBS treatment research and condensed it into a book, Dr. Jeffrey Lackner has written a very different type of book for IBS sufferers. The core of the book is a 10-step plan for symptom relief; however, Dr. Lackner's approach is not ordinary. He combines proven techniques for you to develop an understanding of who you are and how your thoughts and behavior attribute to your well being. This isn't a book about psychology and IBS. Dr. Lackner skillfully takes the reader through an understanding of how the digestive system works, how you may be diagnosed with a digestive disease, and then how the physical torture of daily IBS symptoms can be coped with by changes in how you think and act. For over 25 years I have fostered a self-help/control approach for individuals and this is the first book in a long time that provides the ingredients to do just that. I highly recommend this book for every IBS sufferer.
 



Living with IBD&IBS: A Personal Journey of Success
Elizabeth Roberts, iUniverse Inc., 2006
ISBN 0595402933
Purchase:
Website: http://www.ibdandibs.com

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - A gripping emotional roller-coaster ride
Elizabeth Roberts' skill as a journalist and public relations writer are matched perfectly with this personal emotional story of Elizabeth initially being diagnosed with IBD and then IBS followed by her own techniques for coping. I was mesmerized by her story because Elizabeth eloquently describes how a strong healthy career woman suddenly learns and then understands what it is like to have to cope with these troubling chronic conditions. Her style is approachable as if she is talking directly to you. She shares with us her fears and her triumphs. Doing so provides an honest account of how one's quality of life is altered. Elizabeth provides helpful Tips and Information at the end of each chapter which do a nice job at capturing the key messages of each chapter. I highly recommend this book.
 



Conquering Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Guide To Liberating Those Suffering With Chronic Stomach or Bowel Problems
Nicholas J. Talley MD, B.C. Decker, 2005
ISBN 1896998224
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - The new gold standard for guiding an IBS sufferer
Dr. Talley, a leader in IBS research, has woven together a reference guide for IBS sufferers that will become the new gold standard for understanding and guiding sufferers. His balance of medical jargon along with passages from actual sufferers neatly addresses all areas of the disorder. Dr. Talley's years of dedication to his research and to the patient shines through in this easy to read and informative book.
 



Romance, Riches and Restrooms
Tim Phelan, iUniverse Inc., 2006
ISBN 0595385443
Purchase:
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - The first memoir to date about IBS that allows a user to see the painful, and at times, embarrassing truth about living with IBS.
Tim's true to life recount of learning what ails his bowel is so easily identifiable for many IBS sufferers; however, Tim didn't write his memoir for just IBS sufferers. His aim was to inform everyone that there are quality of life issues that IBS sufferers face each and everyday. He engagingly plastered his very personal story on the pages of his book to raise awareness about this illness. For this, I am grateful because not many people would have the courage to do this.
 



A New IBS Solution
Mark Pimentel, MD, Health Point Press, January 2006
ISBN 0977435601
Purchase:
WWW: http://www.anewibssolution.com
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - This book merits your attention. It could likely explain the cause for your symptoms
Dr. Mark Pimentel is the Director of the Gastrointestinal Motility Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California. The purpose for writing this book was to declare a unifying hypothesis for the cause of IBS. Numerous research studies peformed by Dr. Pimentel, and duplicated by many centers world-wide, point to an overgrowth of bacteria as being the missing link which explains the symptoms felt by 10-20% of the population. He does an admirable job at explaining the background for this new theory, along with treatment options. After reading this book you are more than likely going to want to discuss its findings with your own physician.
 



The Irritable Bowel Syndrome Solution
Stephen Wangen, ND, Innate Health Publishing, January 2006
ISBN 0976853787
Purchase:
WWW: http://www.ibstreatmentcenter.com
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars - It's a solution for some, but not likely for a real IBS sufferer
Stephen Wangen is a Doctor of Naturopathic medicine who provides an informative book that some will find helpful for understanding their IBS-like symptoms. There is no magic here. A great deal of attention is given to allergies and intolerance which may explain symptoms in a great deal of individuals. In the classic sense they unlikely could be diagnosed as suffering from IBS based on the widely supported Rome II criteria, of which there is no mention in the book. Also left out of discussion is the brain-gut axis which has gained so much attention in recent press. The solution is focused on the solution of the IBS Treatment Center, for which he is the founder.
 



IBS For Dummies
Carolyn Dean, L. Christine Wheeler, John Wiley&Sons, 2005
ISBN 0764598147
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - A well researched encyclopedia about Irritable Bowel Syndrome
IBS For Dummies is likely the most complete and current book about IBS that has been written to date for the non-medical reader. It covers pretty well every topic and aspect about the illness and it does it very well. The book reads easily from cover-to-cover or as a reference from chapter to chapter. This book is for sufferers or for anyone who wants to learn more about this chronic illness. Certainly well worth the read and as an addition to your personal IBS book library.
 



IBS - Take Control : Insights into Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Christine Dancey, Claire Rutter, PhD, TFM Publishing Ltd, April 2005
ISBN 190337829X
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Refreshing and empowering
Take Control : Insights into Irritable Bowel Syndrome is written by two well known experts who have been involved with helping IBS sufferers for years. Christine Dancey is the co-founder of the UK-based IBS Network and Dr. Claire Rutter first worked for Dancey as a research assistant for IBS before completing her PhD to further her research about IBS. The book they have written oozes with respect for the IBS sufferer and the determination that any sufferer can help themselves control much of their symptoms by using cognitive behavioral techniques to dismiss much of the negative beliefs and attitudes about themselves suffering from IBS. Both writers are very skilled at teaching you how you can control your own psychological profile. I highly recommend this book as a great start to taking back your life from IBS.
 



Gastrointestinal Health: A Self-Help Nutritional Program to Prevent, Cure, or Alleviate Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Ulcers, Heartburn, Gas, Constipation
Steven Peiken, M.D., Harper Collins Pub., 2005 (3rd edition)
ISBN 0060585323
Purchase:
Digital editions: Available for download now
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Informative; not bogged down with technical language
If you could purchase one book on GI issues, this should be it. My copy is filled with notes and highights and I have recommended it to many of my friends. I found the technical jargon to be quite easy to comprehend (yes, I know I am also a Dr., but trust me -- we appreciate the simplified lanauge as well). The author also integrates a nutritional aspect, although some of the info can be quite contradictory (check out the cooking section...). Overall, I LOVE this book and I have brought it on ... Read More



The Doctor's Guide to Gastrointestinal Health : Preventing and Treating Acid Reflux, Ulcers, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Diverticulitis, Celiac Disease, ... Pancreatitis, Cirrhosis, Hernias and more
Paul Miskovitz, Marian Betancourt, Wiley, March 2005
ISBN 0471462373
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Gastrointestinal Health by Miskovitz
This is an excellent medicinal reference on the workings of the
gastrointestinal system. The book is written from the perspective
of conventional medicine. It discusses classic gastrointestinal
issues; such as, difficulty in swallowing, gas, non-cardiac
discomfort, chest pain, nausea, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss and constipation. Abdominal pain on the left side is associated with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Pain on the right
side of the abdomen may be ... Read More
 




The Guaifenesin Guide: For Treating Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Gregory K. Penniston, Patrice Press, February 2005
ISBN 1880397552
Purchase:
 



Digestive Wellness
Elizabeth Lipski, PhD, CCN, McGraw-Hill, 2004 (3rd edition)
ISBN 0071441964
Purchase:
WWW: http://www.innovativehealing.com
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - A must buy!
Digestive Wellness is a must read for anyone
who has suffered with digestive difficulties --
like I have. Liz explains what's going on inside
our guts so that anyone can understand it.
And her suggestions for change are practical
and effective. Get this book now.
Judith Sherven, Ph.D.
co-author
The Smart Couple's Guide to the Wedding of Your Dreams

 



What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About(TM) IBS: : Eliminate Your Symptoms and Live a Pain-free, Drug-free Life
Winifred Conkling, Richard N. Ash, Warner Books, June 2004
ISBN 0446690910
Purchase:
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - Excellent, highly readable orientation for new patients
This book is excellent for orienting new patients on their way toward empowerment, striking a good balance between clarity and detail. It is down to earth, easily readable, and presents the vital Partin Tables in a sentence format, easy to comprehend for readers who are not used to tables full of numerical research data. The authors convey both realism and optimism - like expert friends talking to you, and Dr. Bubley, as a medical oncologist, gives a balanced view of various therapies. Three ... Read More
 




IBS Learn to Take Charge Of It
Debra Gordon, Barnes&Noble, 2004
ISBN 0760756112
Purchase:
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars - Solid, very easy read with current information.
This was a good find at Barnes&Noble. It is part of their Health Basics Series. The book is well laid out with helpful resources, web links and an Ask the Expert question and answer page for each section. Well worth the purchase.
 



A Victim No More: Overcoming Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Jonathan M. Berkowitz, M.D., Basic Health Publications, November 2003
ISBN 1591200784
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - A great book on IBS!
A very helpful book for those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It covers, diet, exercise, supplements, psychological factors, and medications for relief of IBS. Highly recommended.
 



Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Simon Darnley, Barbara Millar, John Wiley&Sons, Ltd, June 2003
ISBN 0470844965
Purchase:
Rating: 1 out of 5 stars - CBT doesn't change organic disease
Like many other people, the author is confused about this organic gaestrointestinal disorder.

Although the "psychosocial" idea that the mind and the body cannot be separated is trendy, and accurate in some areas, organic medical diseases for which biomedical research shows why patients have the symptoms they do is completely unrelated. Symptoms aren't medically unexplained just because some psychiatrists and doctors don't like "reductionist" or traditional medicine explanations.
Read More
 



The Good Gut Guide: Help for Ibs, Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis, Food Allergies, Other Gut Problems
Stephanie Zinser, R. John Nicholls, Thorsons Publishing, June 2003
ISBN 0007138059
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - An excellent home resource for digestive disorders
This book clearly lays out disorders of the digestive tract, and even addresses personal issues with embarrassment, intimacy, and other non-medical impacts of these disorders. I liked the anatomy section in the beginning which laid a foundation for understanding and imparted new respect for digestion. I actually found myself wanting to eat better and somewhat dismayed at the stress bad food&drink habits have on my body! I also liked that it offered medical, wholistic, herbal, and even aromatherapy ... Read More
 




Contemporary Diagnosis and Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Douglas A. Drossman, M.D., Anthony J. Lembo, M.D, Handbooks in Health Care Company, May 2003
ISBN 188406597X
Purchase:
 



Stop Belly-aching: Banish Indigestion&Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Peter Mansfield, MD., Souvenir Pr Ltd, April 2002
ISBN 0285636189
Purchase:
 



Irritable Bowel Syndrome and the MindBodySpirit Connection: 7 Steps for Living a Healthy Life With a Functional Bowel Disorder, Crohn's Disease or Colitis
William B. Salt II, MD., Neil F. Neimark, MD., Parkview Publishing, 2002 (2nd edition)
ISBN 0965703851
Website: http://www.parkviewpub.com
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - The Best Available
This is the most comprehensive yet systematic, accessible, and intelligent book I've read on IBS (I had read 7-8 others before finding this one). You can waste much time and money on all sorts of herbal and medicinal products as well as alternative therapies with absolutely no gain--in fact, in many cases you may decide you feel worse.

Salt and Neimark provide a complete analysis of the mind/body/spirit connection, taking you from the causes of your problem to the resolution of it that ... Read More



How to Cope Successfully With The Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Richard Emerson, Alastair Forbes, Wellhouse Publishing Ltd, April 2002
ISBN 1903784069
Purchase:
 



The Sensitive Gut
Michael Lasalandra, Harvard Medical School (Editor), Lawrence Friedman, Simon&Schuster, December 2001
ISBN 0743215044
Purchase:
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars - Nicely done but not very useful.
This book gives a great overview of the various digestive maladies (and how there is no cure for most of them). But I cannot imagine anyone who has a reason to buy this book not knowing (1) they should avoid coffee&greasy/spicy food, (2) try to relax and (3) get plenty of excercise.

As W.C. Fields opined, "There's only one cure for insomnia; get plenty of sleep!"

 



IBS Breakthrough: Healing Irritable Bowel Syndrome for Good With Chinese Medicine
Leigh Fortson, Bing Lee, Fair Winds Press, December 2001
ISBN 1931412626
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Easy to read and so interesting!
I loved this book. I've been searching for ways to beat the problems I've had with IBS for years. After reading this book, I found a practitioner that has gone beyond the textbook remedies, and together we've found out what causes my symptoms. I've had an irritated bowel for good reason--I'm allergic to my deoderant! This is a MUST READ for anyone who is tired of the same old same old, and is open minded enough to get to the real problem. It's great to feel good!
 



The First Year--IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed
Heather Van Vorous, Marlowe&Company, October 2001
ISBN 1569245479
Website: http://www.helpforibs.com/
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - BUY THIS BOOK - HELP YOURSELF HANDLE IBS
EASY TO READ, VERY HELPFUL, 10 STARS! I have IBS and this and the author's other book "EATING FOR IBS" has saved my life in more ways than one! GREAT ADVICE from a fellow sufferer! A must-have for the patient(s) and doctors who help them! I believe that Heather Van Vorous has 'walked the walk' and, therefore, can 'talk the talk' about Irritable Bowel Syndrome!
I would like to say 'thank you' to her for writing this new book!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - All Dr's should read this and give one to their IBS patients
For the people downing this book, they obviously don't have IBS.
This works! I hate giving up my dairy and cheese burgers, but since I have started Heather's diet. I have not had to take a rx and been symptom free for 4 days!!!! (I tried her diet when I was on the rx but since i can eat almost anything when I am on it and have very little symptoms, I decided to get off of it to see if her diet really works..) This has been the longest I have ever gone with out an attack! Learning how to eat ... Read More

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - critics should read this and her other work (including website) more carefully
This book (and Van Vorous' other work) has helped me tremendously. My symptoms were debilitating. When I was diagnosed, I asked my gastrenterologist if there were any diets in particular that might have an impact. He said "It's different for everyone." And while that is true to some extent, he didn't even mention that caffeine and alcohol were triggers, let alone fats and insoluble fibers. When I discovered this book and started following the guidelines, my condition improved dramatically.
... Read More

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars - A guide for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
People with IBS will benefit heavily from this book. This could be their bible for IBS. Especially the section where the author tells you what you can eat when you cannot eat anything. If you have severe pain and diarrhea then a diet consisting refined starch and pureed vegetables may work wonders for you. Eating fibre rich food will help you if you have constipation. This book will give a lot of information for the normal person also.

By giving up my coffee habit I realized having ... Read More

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Highly Informative Work
I truly benefited from this book. I have been having problems digesting since high school probably due in part to the stress of a hard childhood and now young adulthood. Anyway, I bookmarked the pages listing safe foods (soluble fibers) versus the unsafe foods (INsoluble fibers, red/dark meats, fats, dairy, etc). This book has changed my life. I have the knowledge to be able to choose my meals wisely. Amazingly, my acne breakouts have come to a screeching halt with the start of the IBS diet. It turns ... Read More
 




The Irritable Bowel Syndrome Sourcebook
Laura O'Hare, McGraw Hill - NTC, August 2001
ISBN 0737305533
Purchase:
 



IBS: A Doctor's Plan for Chronic Digestive Troubles: The Definitive Guide to Prevention and Relief
Gerard Guillory, M.D., O'Neill, Jr. Barrett, Hartley&Marks, May 2001 (3rd edition)
ISBN 0881791792
Website: http://www.ibsinformation.com
Purchase:
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars - Not enough Facts too many quick qonclusions
When a Dr. writes a book, we all assume that all the conculsion will be based in fact as opposed to annecdotal fiction. While Dr.Gerard provides a good explanation of what IBS is and a high level guide to reducing IBS symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes...he fails to provide enough details on the diet that is needed. Also, he does not do a very through job of analyzing and discussing dietary fiber supplements, such as metamucil which have proven useful for many IBS sufferers. For example, ... Read More

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - A good starting book on learning about IBS and treatment.
To answer your main questions about Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Gerard Guillory's _IBS: A doctor's plan_ is an excellent place to start. It is filled with useful tips and has a reassuring tone. I highly recommend this book, along with Dawn Burstall et al.'s _IBS relief: A Doctor, a Dietitian and a Psychologist Provide a Team Approach to Managing IBS_. Both books complement each other well and provide useful information. (see my review of Burstall et al. at amazon.com)

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - What I thought.
I thougth the book was very interesting and helpful.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Good one Volume Guide to IBS
Dr. Guillory offers a revised and newly updated edition of his definitive guide for the one in five people suffering from spastic colon, cramping pains or nausea after eating, constipation, gas, and diarrhea--the variety of uncomfortable digestive symptoms known as IBS--Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Revealing questionnaires and special temporary diets are featured, as well as detailed information about testing and medications. Included are special stress reduction techniques along with corrective exercises ... Read More

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - Good one Volume Guide to IBS
Dr. Guillory offers a revised and newly updated edition of his definitive guide for the one in five people suffering from spastic colon, cramping pains or nausea after eating, constipation, gas, and diarrhea--the variety of uncomfortable digestive symptoms known as IBS--Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Revealing questionnaires and special temporary diets are featured, as well as detailed information about testing and medications. Included are special stress reduction techniques along with corrective exercises ... Read More
 




Mayo Clinic on Digestive Health
John E. King (Editor), Mayo Clinic, Kensington Pub Corp, October 2000
ISBN 1893005046
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - VERY USEFLUL
I FIND THIS BOOK USEFUL IN THE SENSE IT ADDRESSES COMMON QUESTIONS MOST OF US TEND TO HAVE ABOUT FOOD, EATING, DIGESTIVE HAZARDS AND RELATED ILLNESS.
 



What You Really Need to Know About Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Robert Buckman, Nigel Howard, John Cleese (Intro), Lebhar-Friedman Books, 2000
ISBN 0867308273 (ISBN 0771576919 - CDG Books, Canada)
Purchase:
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - I've never been so excited about iritable bowel syndrome!
Not since the phlegm-horking "Afrikaaner for beginners" audio book have I been so impressed by an author's knowledge of a subject.

The only caveat is that it is not nearly as visual as you may want if you are a fetishist, hence the 4/5 score. Otherwise, spellbinding!
 



25 Natural Ways to Relieve Irritable Bowel Syndrome : A Mind-Body Approach to Well-Being
James Scala, Keats Publishing, 2000
ISBN 0658007017
Purchase:
Rating: 1 out of 5 stars - 25 Natural Ways to Relieve Irritable Bowel Syndrome
I would not recommend this book at all. The diet is terrible and if I followed it, it would have caused my husband great pain! James Scala has no idea, as clearly he doesn't suffer from IBS. I would not recommend this at all, it is the worst book I have ever bought! I want my money back and I will be writing to him tell him this aswell.
 



Freedom from Digestive Distress: Medicine-Free Relief from Heartburn, Gas, Bloating, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Karen Cooksey, Gary L. Gitnick, M.D., Three Rivers Press, 2000
ISBN 0812932625
Purchase:
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - information to help you solve your digestive problems
I found the book very helpful. I don't think there are easy answers to digestive problems because there are so many factors affecting each person at once. The author shows you how to keep a food journal (which my doctor has been telling me to do for years) which not only has columns for what you ate or drank, but also what else you were doing, who was with you, where you were and how you were feeling, because your digestive problems can be a combination of what you eat, how stressed out you are, ... Read More

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars - A decent self-help book
It is great to find a book by a practicing gastroenterologist who promotes a medicine-free healing plan! Gitnick's book reminds us all of the importance of a complete healing program, including exercise, stress reduction, positive attitude, eating those foods which don't bother us, and seeking support from others. The author discusses scenarios when it may be necessary to combine medicine with these success factors and how they can work together to promote healing. This book contains many case studies ... Read More

Rating: 1 out of 5 stars - It's Just a Lot of Hot Air!
Well intentioned but regrettably lacking in any real practical advise for those of us who suffer from this very dibilatating syndrome, "Freedom from Digestive Distress : Medicine-Free Relief from Heartburn, Gas, Bloating, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome" was a disappointing read. There is virtually no information on dealing with the embarrassing and often painful situations that are a part of our daily lives. I was looking for answers and got very few: What is the best approach for avoiding problems ... Read More



Listen To Your Gut
Jini Patel Thompson, Caramal Publishing Inc., May 2000
Purchase:
You can access everything you need to manage and heal your IBD or IBS. This book can show you how. You Will Learn: Which foods are safe for you to eat. Which foods you should avoid and will trigger bloating, bleeding or diarrhea. Which herbal supplements will help you manage your symptoms day-to-day and effect long-term healing. How to manage and treat the cycle of your disease, including flare-ups, using natural methods. How to become and remain drug and surgery-free. How to transform pain and control your bowels - no more embarrassing accidents. How to get in touch with your body's unique needs and take control of your healing process, resulting in greater peace and confidence.
Article from the Author Jini Patel Thompson



Breaking the Bonds of Irritable Bowel Syndrome : A Psychological Approach to Regaining Control of Your Life
Barbara Bradley Bolen, Ph.D., W. Grant Thompson M.D., New Harbinger Pubns April 2000
ISBN 1572241888
Website: http://www.irritablebowel.net/
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Easy to Understand. Worth Having!
I really enjoyed this book because she makes everything very understandable. She also discusses the possible links between IBS and childhood abuse, stress, foods that irritate, etc. She states that studies have shown a link between depression (or stress related disorders) and IBS. She also gives practical advice on how to cope both mentally and physically. Some suggestions may be things you have heard before, but she puts it in such a way so you can really see the benefit of doing these, that outwieghs ... Read More

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - The Last IBS Book You Need!
After buying, reading and giving away many, many books on Irritable Bowel Syndrome, I was blessed to have found this one. No recipes in this one, this book makes clear the powerful correlation between IBS and anxiety, IBS and stress, IBS and depression, IBS and fear. After spending a week of increasingly severe pain accompanied by increased anxiety about the pain (or was it increasing pain about the anxiety?)and winding up in the local ER, I realized that I needed to help myself by calming myself. This ... Read More

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - A book that helps you regain control
IBS can be a horrible thing to suffer with and unfortunately a lot of books written on the subject can even be worse. In my search for books on IBS I found a lot of them written by doctors to be unsympathetic and confusing. That was until I found Barbara Bradley Bolen's book on IBS. Her book was written in a clear and friendly manner and it was a pleasure to read. Also, Bolen writing was very sympathetic to the disease of IBS.

One of the things I liked so much about this book was the case ... Read More

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - A must for IBS sufferers&those who treat IBS patients.
As a clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience, I highly recommend Dr. Bolen's book. Dr. Bolen collates a great deal of research and general information about IBS, and then goes on to provide a number of effective, excellent techniques for managing the disorder, explained in a clear and straightforward manner. I am already using this book with several of my IBS patients and have found it to be of immense help.
 



UK Register of IBS Therapists - Audio 100 IBS Tapes
Michael Mahoney, Time Line Services, 1999
Purchase:
The IBS Audio Program 100 home course in Hypnotherapy is clinically designed to alleviate your Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms.



Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Natural Approach
Rosemary Nicol, Ulysses Press, 1999 (2nd edition)
ISBN 1569751889
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Outstanding; the ideal treatment of a sensitive subject
No need to feel embarrassed: everybody suffers from IBS from time to time. I was looking for a book that would offer more than a study guide to the digestive system combined with an encyclopedia on dietary measures, and I wound up more pleased than ever! Author Rosemary Nicol's diverse handling of everything from symptoms (both physical and emotional) of IBS and similar ailments, to stress management, antidotes and diet is absolutely impressive.

I'm not sure what her background is, ... Read More

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - So thankful for this book
This book has given me hope that there is relief from my IBS. It explains this condition in a way anyone can understand. I discovered things that might be contributing to my symptoms that I had no idea were even remotely related to IBS. It gives a comprehensive overview of the many treatments available, focusing on the natural and homeopathic. I have begun implementing many of the dietary and lifestyle changes covered in this book and look forward to feeling better. I am already feeling better, ... Read More
 




Irritable Bowel Syndrome&Diverticulosis: A Self-Help Plan
Shirley Trickett, Thorsons Publishing, 1999 (Revised)
ISBN 0722538618
Purchase:
Rating: 1 out of 5 stars - Irritable Bowel Syndrome&Dverticulosis
Got Diverticulosis and want help? Dont buy this book. These are two different ailments and the author treats them as one.

Very dissapointed, save your money.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars - Misleading Title
Except for the title, you cannot find any reference to Diverticulosis in this book. Otherwise, it is a useful book.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - This information has really helped me.
I have found that the information in this book has helped me more than anything I have tried in the past 12 years... My experience with MD's has been futile. Anyone suffering with IBS or diverticulosis would be well served reading the exceptionally well written book.
 



The Second Brain
Michael D. Gershon, M.D., HarperCollins Publishers, 1999 (reissued)
ISBN 0060930721
Purchase:
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - peristaltic reflex or peristaltic cognition?
This has been a challenging book to read, but well worth the effort. It is a peculiar mix of memoir and introductory textbook on the enteric (gut) system. I found myself woefully unprepared to consume the text. Gershon has tried to write for the lay reader, but that lay reader had better be comfortable with organic chemistry. Despite the jargon, Gershon's enthusiasm is infectious. This would be a great gift for any pre-med student in need of inspiration.

The title is somewhat misleading. ... Read More

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - A thought-provoking book
I thought it was an interesting premise that the gut was a 'second brain gone south'. I would add too that the author responded to a question I emailed him and thanked me for reading his book. A courtesy that you don't always receive these days.

Rating: 1 out of 5 stars - Bowel megalomaniac doesn't help the little people
I bought this book with the hope that it would convey real information about the physiology of the digestive system, so that I could understand my own digestive problems - I didn't want to read just another wacky diet plan. This book is indeed advertised as being somehow helpful to those who suffer bowel problems, but all he ends up saying about those problems is that, if his great discoveries are taken seriously by pharmaceutical companies, us little people will someday be able to buy new drugs for our problems. ... Read More

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - Not just my gut feeling!
A compelling informative guide to the concept of "Big brain and little brain". This book is super And its not just my gut feeling. Readers may also look up "Natural Stomach Care", and "Your Gut Feelings".

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Readable Science, not New Age twaddle!
This is a serious enteric neurology text (the first!) and an entertaining memoir rolled into one. Dr. Gershon is passionate about the brain in the bowel and he (and his editor) have done a superlative job of explaining some very complicated neurochemistry. I haven't even read through to the practical advice section and I think it's superb already! Highly recommended not only for those with unhappy guts, but for anyone who's ever been curious about the digestive system, how it works and how it evolved to have such a ... Read More
 




The Self-Help Way to Treat Colitis and Other IBS Disorders
De LaMar Gibbons, M.D., Lendon H. Smith, Keats Pub., 1991
ISBN 087983546X
Purchase:
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - First Doctor who made sense
My son has suffered with IBS all of his life. This was the first book or doctor who was able to help with his condition. Imagine my suprise to find that not only does Dr. Gibbons have a book but also a web site where you can send Dr. Gibbons questions. What a big help that has been in my sons life...

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Someone finally understood!!
I had been to 3 separate doctors, had numerous tests, and tried a lengthy list of medications. I found out about this book in a chat room and the reviews were so glowing that I thought it must be a marketing scheme. I bought it anyway because I had nothing to lose at that point in my life. As I read the book, I felt vindicated and thought he was describing my life. This book changed my life. For anyone that has ever suffered from fructose intolerance this will make sense to you....my husband ... Read More

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - Change your life overnight!!
For over half of my life (20+ years) I suffered from IBS. I had become almost completely homebound because of this. My life changed overnight when I bought this book. I started following the diet and I noticed a huge difference the first day. With in a few weeks I was a different person. I know this sounds corny but it's true. Dr. Gibbons saved my life. I have been pretty much symptom free now for several years. IBS no longer controls my life and IBS never even crosses my mind unless I'm bragging ... Read More

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - The best help I have ever found
Dr. Gibbons lays out the causes and effects of I.B.S. He gives his own medical history that has effected him and how it lead him to find answer on how to best help himself. I have read the book and now follow his diet that he has explained what one needs to do to get immediate relief. I feel so much better now I can not believe the difference. Anyone who suffers with crohn's disease, celiac sprue, colitis, diverticulosis, galactosemia, infant colic, post-colostomy colitis, ulcerative colitis will benefit ... Read More

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars - If you have bowel problems please read this book
When I first browsed this book I said "Yes I know that", "Yes I know that","Yes I know that". I put the book back on the self. After a couple of weeks I decided maybe their was something in the book I didn't know. I went back and bought it. It was nice to find comformation of what I had found over the years to be helpful. My Doctor always looked at me like I was crazy when I told him these things. This book is a must read for anyone with bowel problems.
 


The Care and Feeding of the Irritable Bowel
De LaMar Gibbons, M.D., 1988
Academy of Health, Box 497, Lava Hot Springs Idaho 83246



IBS Relief: A Doctor, a Dietitian, and a Psychologist Provide a Team Approach
Geoffrey Turnbull, Dawn Burstall, John Wiley&Sons, 1998
ISBN 0471347418
Purchase:
Rating: 1 out of 5 stars - SORRY THAT I PURCHASED THIS BOOK
I have bought Heather Van Vorous' books regarding IBS -- They are fantastic and I thought that buying THIS book would give additional help! The book is virtually useless. . . The biggest negative about this book was the advice on loading up on wheat fiber -- which can cause horrible reactions in IBS patients! In addition, this team could not have researched the reaction of people with IBS to dairy products -- including yogurt -- Be smart and buy Heather Van Vorous' books -- they are simply wonderful ... Read More

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - Excellent Guide
This is an excellent guide, giving many details of symptoms, causes, diet change needs,trigger foods, and stress reduction. I refer to it frequently. It has no gender bias that women are the major sufferers of IBS.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - INTERESTING TOPIC
I certainly do agree on some of the topics mentioned in this book. My understanding as reading this book and also attending at the time a Psycologist, is I think it narrows down yes with some foods you eat, I feel everyone is sensitive to certain foods than others, but what I found very interesting and had a hard time dealing with is to accept the fact that I had IBS. That's the first thing you have to accept. The second is STRESS, what major role that plays on the digestive system. You may not agree, ...