Irritable Bowel Syndrome Self Help and Support Group

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.

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Rating: - 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....

Rating: - 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.

Rating: - 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.

Rating: - 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.

Rating: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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


Rating: - Good, clear info
Lipski focuses on digestive problems and solutions, just as you would expect. Lots of good & clear information. When the topic strays from digestion, (eg cancer, heart disease) the coverage is light. Concerning the digestive system, its problems and faults, coverage is excellent.

Rating: - A practical and easy-to-follow digestive solution for all!
Digestive Wellness is one of the most useful books I've ever read. Elizabeth Lipski have helped me understand my body's language in terms of what others think of as a normal body response to food, from bloating to gas to acid reflex, and what she explains it as what should not happen after consuming food.

After I've read her book my digestion improved a lot, I no longer experience the annoying symptoms after food, and even if I do, I know why am I having those symptoms.

Ever ... Read More

Rating: - The Most Stolen Book From Doctors` Offices


"Hello! This is your GI (Gastrointestinal Tract) speaking! Listen to
me! You'll be glad you did!"

The authoritative voice of Elizabeth Lipski, author of the updated
edition of Digestive Wellness, comes across clear and strong in
communicating to her readers' important facts about how to strengthen
your immune system and prevent disease through healthy digestion.

From the very onset of the book, Lipski informs her audience that she
is ... Read More

Rating: - Great for IBS sufferers
I suffer IBS-Alternating and this book gave me a helpful understanding of my long list of digestive symptoms as well as types of testing that I could do that my doctor never told me about. For example, I recently got an ELISA blood allergy test and discovered that I am intolerant to eggs and dairy --but the extensive scratch test that was done by an allergy specialist showed that I had no food allergies. I have since eliminated eggs and dairy and my symptoms improved. Also, it talks about the CDSA test, ... Read More

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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

Rating: - Invaluable resource for everyday folks
About a year ago I had very uncomfortable gastro-intestinal issues. Specialists performed a series of horrifying tests and and after four months had no diagnosis. Taking matters into my own hands, I picked up and read "The good gut guide" and begrudgingly changed my diet and lifestyle. I am pleased to report that my guts are good. Thank you for the well written and user friendly guide book.

Rating: - A LAYMAN'S GUIDE TO STOMACH DISORDERS
An incredible collection of what can go wrong with your gut. The Good Gut Guide provides answers and direction for the unknowing parent, friend or neighbor that has been battling just about any type of intestinal problem you can imagine. Zinser uses humor to break through the embarrassment we all generally feel when talking about constipation, gas or other sensitive issues like these. The book is reader friendly, educational and still amazingly detailed. My nine-year-old daughter suffers from chronic constipation. ... Read More

Rating: - A LAYMAN'S GUIDE TO STOMACH DISORDERS
An incredible collection of what can go wrong with your gut. The Good Gut Guide provides answers and direction for the unknowing parent, friend or neighbor that has been battling just about any type of intestinal problem you can imagine. Zinser uses humor to break through the embarrassment we all generally feel when talking about constipation, gas or other sensitive issues like these. The book is reader friendly, educational and still amazingly detailed. My nine-year-old daughter suffers from chronic constipation. ... Read More

Rating: - A LAYMAN'S GUIDE TO STOMACH DISORDERS
An incredible collection of what can go wrong with your gut. The Good Gut Guide provides answers and direction for the unknowing parent, friend or neighbor that has been battling just about any type of intestinal problem you can imagine. Zinser uses humor to break through the embarrassment we all generally feel when talking about constipation, gas or other sensitive issues like these. The book is reader friendly, educational and still amazingly detailed. My nine-year-old daughter suffers from chronic constipation. ... Read More

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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

Rating: - Collaboratively written by digestive disorder specialists
Collaboratively written by digestive disorder specialists Dr. William Salt and Dr. Neil Neimark, and now available in a fully revised and updated new edition, Irritable Bowel Syndrome And The MindBodySpirit Connection is an invaluable, hope-giving, practical, non-specialist general reader friendly guide offering seven specific steps to improving one's quality of life and health when living with a functional bowel disorder, Crohn's Disease or colitis. Individual chapters focus on using the power of ... Read More

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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!"

Rating: - Good Information, very well written
This book covers most typical digestive disorders. It provides plenty of information about the underlying physiological basis for these ailments as well as details on diagnostic procedures and treatment. The author uses a sensible approach and does not try to solve the problems with miracle cures. Rather he talks about the benefits of and concerns with the various treatments. I think there is valuable information in this book for anyone with digestive maladies. I have read half a dozen books on this ... Read More

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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!

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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: - 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: - 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: - 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: - 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

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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: - 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: - What I thought.
I thougth the book was very interesting and helpful.

Rating: - 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: - 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

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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!

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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: - 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: - 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

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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: - 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: - 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: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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: - 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

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

Rating: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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: - 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: - 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: - 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: - 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

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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: - 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: - 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: - 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: - 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.

Average Rating:
Rating: - 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: - 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: - 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, ... Read More

Rating: - 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, ... Read More

Rating: - Be careful on published medical advice
This is one of many books being published that explain and propose cures for IBS. All the books I have read prior to this one were heavy on dietary precautions but not as concerned with the so-called psychological aspects of IBS. As a psychologist myself, I have noted the growing tendency, when physicians don't know what causes a disease, to quickly dismiss it as psychological. As a sufferer of IBS (started after I took an antibiotic), I wasn't content with being told that it was entirely or partly in ... Read More

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Rating: - The Irritable Bowel and Gastrointestinal Solutions Handbook
Hi,
I just read this book and was favorably surprised. The negative reviews in here do not seem to be accurate. For example, one review says that only 15% of the book dealt with IBS. This is NOT true. 2/3 of the book discusses IBS directly and the rest helps distinguish between other diseases and IBS. This is exactly what is in the title.
I called the company with a question. They were very helpful and knowledgeable. Their web site is www.urpublishers.com and the phone number is ... Read More

Rating: - The Irritable Bowel Synfrome Handbook
This book is a life saver if you have IBS. It covers the condition in every way and gives great suggestions about foods and exercise. The author makes it easy to read, just like he is talking to you.
Check out the section on fiber, it will surprise you.

Rating: - Junk
What a waste of money. This books gives information that is very basic. The book is more basic then any magazine article on the subject of IBS.

Rating: - For Nan Curtis - contacting the publisher
Hi Nan - The book publisher has a website where you can email them, though they do not list a phone number. The site is ...unitedresearchpubs.com and there is a "contact us" page.

I am really sorry they took advantage of you that way.

Rating: - The Irritable Bowel Syndrome & Gastrointestinal Solutions Ha
I need some help. I ordered the above Handbook out of the February 2002 AARP Bulletin on February 2002. I mailed them a check. I have not received my handbook. There was no telephone number to call to find out the status of the order. The mailing address is United Research Publishers Dept. AAS-7 PMB T; 132 North El Camino Real; Encinitas CA 92024. If anyone knows a telephone number that I could call, please give it to me.
Thanks
Nan Curtis

Average Rating:
Rating: - Wonderful book
Very helpful for those who suffer IBS.

Average Rating:
Rating: - better help elsewhere
I tried for years to control IBS with diet, exercise, medications, etc. I never got anywhere with that. I recently tried an 'assist' from the 'Assist Processing Handbook' from L Ron Hubbard, and I was feeling much better within a couple of hours. If you have already ruled out food allergies (and any structural problems), and can't seem to control IBS with books such as this one, please do yourself a favor and get the assist book.

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