What Every Woman Needs to Know About Digestive Health

With all we know about modern diets and levels of exercise, is it any wonder how many Americans suffer digestive problems? Still, the numbers are stark.

Roughly one in five Americans is affected by constipation, which is the most common gastrointestinal ailment. Between 25 and 55 million Americans—the majority of whom are women—suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. And IBS most often occurs in people in their late teens to early 40s. If you have trouble staying regular, read on.

Author/Compiled by: Debra Fulghum Bruce, PhD
Medical Reviewer: Brunilda Nazario, MD

Natural Constipation Cures
Before you self-medicate with an over-the-counter laxative, try increasing eating more fiber and drinking more water. These are the simplest and safest natural cures.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome FAQs
It isn't life-threatening, but this common condition—especially among young women—can significantly impair the quality of life of those who have it. What every woman needs to know about IBS.

Internal Affairs
Get your digestive health back on track. Find relief with Dr. Oz and Dr. Michael Roizen's live younger action plan for your liver and pancreas.

Find more on digestive health at WebMD.