I have had IBS since I was 13 years old. It's a part of my life now. For years I was embarrased because of the "D" and "C", and I didn't talk to anybody about it, except my mum. No I'm 28, and I have a new attitude to my IBS. I tell my friends, and they have benn pretty okay about it. That's been great. I try to eat healthy, but some days you just can't help yourself, and you've got to eat that bit of chocolate. (I'm a self confessed choc-aholic). I usually cop the cramps and wind once a week. I find that when things get tough, I just have a few small pieces of licorice, and I'm fine. Too much licorice and then guess what? Any way, I just thought that maybe this might, (might) help some of you out there. I feel that IBS can be managed, but it does get you down.I got onto this website because it's great that people can help each other with advice, support, etc. We don't seem to have anything like this in Australia. This is a good website. Keep it up everyone.CiaoKerry