Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine (colon) and can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and constipation. It's a chronic condition that requires long-term management, but it usually doesn't cause permanent damage to the digestive tract or increase the risk of serious diseases like cancer.
The exact cause of IBS is not known, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:
Abnormalities in the gut microbiota: Changes in the balance of bacteria in the gut may play a role in IBS symptoms.
Abnormalities in the nervous system: The gut-brain axis, which involves communication between the brain and the gut, may be disrupted in people with IBS, leading to heightened sensitivity to pain and changes in bowel function.
Muscle contractions in the intestines: Abnormalities in the contractions of the intestinal muscles may lead to symptoms of diarrhoea, constipation, or both.
Food sensitivities: Certain foods or food components, such as gluten or certain carbohydrates (FODMAPs), may trigger symptoms in some people with IBS.
Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, and other psychological factors can worsen IBS symptoms.
Management of IBS typically involves a combination of dietary modifications and lifestyle changes, including stress management techniques.
Below are some strategies that may help alleviate symptoms:
Dietary changes: Some people with IBS find relief by following a low-FODMAP diet, which involves avoiding certain types of carbohydrates that can trigger symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help identify trigger foods.
Fibre supplements: For some individuals, increasing fibre intake through supplements or fibre-rich foods can help alleviate constipation. However, others may find that fibre exacerbates symptoms, so it's important that you work with a health practitioner to determine the best approach.
Probiotics: Probiotic supplements containing beneficial bacteria may help improve gut health and alleviate symptoms in some people with IBS. However, the effectiveness of probiotics can vary, and it may take time to find the right strain and dosage.
Medications: Depending on the predominant symptoms, herbal formulas and nutraceuticals with specific actions such as antispasmodics, laxatives, or antidiarrheals may be prescribed by a Naturopath to help manage IBS symptoms. Natural treatments may target specific aspects of IBS, such as abdominal pain or diarrhoea.
Stress management: Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation may help reduce stress and improve symptoms of IBS.
Regular exercise: Physical activity can help regulate bowel function and alleviate stress, both of which may contribute to symptom improvement in people with IBS.
It's essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop an individualised treatment plan for managing IBS. Naturopathic practitioners at Optimal Vitality can help identify triggers, recommend appropriate dietary and lifestyle changes, and prescribe natural medicines if needed to help control symptoms and improve quality of life.
Schedule an appointment with a naturopathic practitioner at Optimal Vitality to discuss how natural medicine and treatments can reduce symptoms of IBS.
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