Best medication for bloating from IBS? And other lifestyle factors to lessen symptoms?

[kaylaklutz]

I take Bloat-X to help bloating, but it doesn't. I take probiotics, and enzymes. They also don't work.

I exercise 3-4x a week for 30-40 minutes. I don't eat snack foods often. I eat healthy and follow a dieticians guidelines. I drink 64-80 oz's of water a day... still, nothing. Can't lose weight AT ALL. Don't gain weight either!

Questions:

What is the best medication? I am 5'5 and 130lbs, but my stomach is terribly bloated!

What foods to avoid? (I think I'm doing a good job, but apparently somethings wrong) (NOTE: I AM lactose intolerant, so I try to avoid dairy but it's VERY hard to do, so is there any meds for that too?)

What foods to have more of?

What exercise techniques to get a flatter stomach, leaner thighs, more toned hips, and love handles? I can't seem to lose ANY weight, but my weight stays stuck at 130-133!

[meniere135]

Your weight is right on target for your height. (I just realized you mentioned your height before...sorry)  Is it just the bloating that is making you feel like you've put on weight (I say that because my 18 year old daughter is always complaining about her "fat", even though it's bloating - when the bloating goes down, she looks fine).  Female hormones tell your body to put weight on your hips and thighs.  You could join a local gym where a staff member interviews you and asks what you want to accomplish .... then they will show you what equipment to use and how often for the areas that you want toned.  
I hope this helps.  

[kaylaklutz]

i am 5'5.

[meniere135]

One more thing.  How tall are you?

[meniere135]

Usually it's the carbs that cause the bloating, especially gluten containing grains (wheat, barley, rye and possibly oats).  You could try a low carb diet, like Atkins or South Beach.  Give your body a few weeks to switch gears and then you should see improvement.  You'll need to take a multivitamin.  You can find the gluten free diet on line.  Hope this helps!

[kaylaklutz]

I'd like to add that I bloat after EVERYTHING I eat, even fruits and water!