Irritable Bowel syndrome IBS is not an Inflammatory Bowel Disease, however, it causes abnormal bowel mobility, often accompanied by abdominal pain. IBS can present with diarrhoea and /or constipation. When the digestive complaints are initially presented it requires a full medical investigation to exclude inflammatory bowel disease.
Factors that contribute to the development of IBS include
- Stress plays a big role. In theory IBS sufferers respond differently to stress. Their stress response leads to gut hypersensitivity leading to digestive complaints commonly seen.
- Food sensitivity and intolerances.
- SIBO (small intestinal bowel overgrowth bacterial flora imbalance)
- FODMAP malabsorption issues.
- Leaky Gut syndrome.
- Severe IBS, if unmanaged, can lead to other health problems.
Natural and Nutritional Treatment
- Identify food chemical sensitivity
- Food restrictions are initially beneficial. This is followed food challenges and re-introductions.
- Manage stress and anxiety
- Address the microflora
- Check nutritional status and correct inadequacy
- Identify triggers.
