Health Information

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a problem of the gastro-intestinal system which is affecting more and more people.

Suggested IBS Triggers

1. Hypersensitivity or intolerances to foods

2. Stress or emotional problems

3. Inflammation and infections in the intestines caused by unfriendly bacteria or parasites. These can give rise to Leaky Gut Syndrome, where there is an increase in the permeability of the intestinal mucosa. Here, undigested food particles and chemicals can permeate the walls of the intestines and enter the bloodstream. The immune system can become overloaded by this and cause inflammation, mucosal sensitivity, abnormal movements and response from secretions.

4. Dysbiosis (the imbalance between the good and bad bacteria in the intestinal tract).

5. Bowel flora alteration. This can arise from the taking of antibiotic medication or laxatives, regular bouts of diarrhoea or a low intake of dietary fibre.

Diet and Lifestyle Factors

Increasing the intake of water can be beneficial as well as more dietary fibre, particularly in the form of fruit and vegetables. Reduce dehydrating drinks such as tea and coffee that contain caffeine.

Constipation, diarrhoea and dysbiosis (toxic bacteria) may be directly attributed to food sensitivities and intolerances.

Bloating and symptoms associated with this (meteorism) is caused by gas that’s trapped in the intestines, though how this actually comes about is not yet fully comprehended. The decomposition of lactose by bacteria can cause increased gas leading to bloating and rumbling, flatulence or diarrhoea soon after eating dairy foods.

One of the factors thought to play a strong role in IBS pathology are food intolerances. Bacterial fermentation can be the result, with symptoms caused by the increased production of intestinal gases.

Possible natural treatments for IBS:

1. Drinking one-and-a-half litres of pure water daily, in addition to usual beverage intake.

2. Eliminating or reducing the consumption of deydrating and caffeine containing drinks and foods such as tea and coffee, chocolate, colas and alcohol.

3. Identifying food sensitivities or allergies and eliminating the foods that give rise to them.

4. Increasing the intake of fibre by eating more vegetables and fruits. Although some people have problems with raw foods.

5. Reducing stress levels by finding ways to relax and cope with stressful situation.

The therapist and client must collaborate effectively. It is vitally important that the client is fully committed to playing an active role in dealing with IBS.

If deemed necessary, a non-invasive muscle-energy allergy test to assess food allergies or intolerances can be used as well as private laboratory blood tests for food sensitivities/allergies, leaky gut, Candida overgrowth and other appropriate tests.

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