Q. A 40-year-old male patient has presented to the medical clinic with a 2-week history of recurrent abdominal pain and bloating. He reports that the pain is generally in the lower abdomen and seems to be relieved by defecation. He also reports a change in bowel habits, with alternating constipation and diarrhea but no blood or mucus in the stool. Physical examination is unremarkable, and basic laboratory tests, including a complete blood count and metabolic panel, are also within normal limits. What is the most appropriate initial management for this patient?