I suffer with IBS. For the past 10 days I have had a very bloated tummy. I have taken merbyntol daily. My diet is good - I drink lots of water and green tea, avoid bread etc when it is bad, as I know it can make my tummy worse. Could it be I need to change my medication? I have been on the same medication for years. I am going to the toilet regularly and it is normal.... What can you suggest?

Have you started your menopause yet? This often affects women’s digestion and adds to any problems they already had.

It might be worth adding Molkosan Vitality to your regime, as it helps establish a good environment for friendly gut flora, and that reduces bloating.

It is always worth discussing your medication with your doctor. It is an antispasmodic, as I’m sure you know, and there are plenty of other similar medications.

You may also find that taking a magnesium supplement has a similarly beneficial effect, as it is soothing for the nerves that govern the bowel.

Ali Cullen
Nutritional therapist