Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a common gastrointestinal condition. Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Individuals with IBS do not have any obvious medical abnormality and there is no one single cause for the emergence of this syndrome.
If you have been diagnosed with IBS you will be happy to know that naturopathic approaches tend to have great success in treating this condition. Read on to learn what are some common triggers of IBS and what you can do to manage them.
- Food sensitives/intolerance – Many individuals with IBS notice that consuming certain foods exacerbates their IBS symptoms. Common offenders include dairy and gluten-containing products. Inflammation in the lining of the gut due to food sensitivities and intolerances may trigger IBS. An elimination diet guided by a Naturopathic Doctor can bring significant relief to IBS sufferers. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend a Food Sensitivity Test for you.
- Stress - Many cases of IBS begin after a period of high stress or psychological trauma. Examples include, starting a new job, going through a divorce, or significant stress in school. The gut-brain connection seems to be especially important in the development of IBS. This is why we often recommend to our patients suffering from IBS to engage in counselling and stress-reducing activities such as exercise, journaling, and reducing sources of stress in their lives.
- Hormones - Estrogen dysregulation has been shown to create an immune response in the gut, which may lead to the symptoms of IBS. This explains why women are more likely to develop IBS than men. Many of our patients that suffer from IBS benefit from a protocol that works on regulating hormones in the body.
Given the multifunctional nature of IBS, a comprehensive approach works best in treating this condition. At Somerset Health & Wellness Centre, our NDs take time to listen to patients' health stories and find solutions that work for them. If you're ready to find freedom from IBS, book a free discovery call with one of our qualified practitioners today.