The Realities of IBS

What causes it?

The muscles in the intestines irregularly spasm; the contractions are longer and stronger than normal peristalsis (smooth muscle movements of alternating constriction and relaxation to move substances throughout the body's organs). 

Oversensitive nerve endings lead to bloating when triggered by a small gas bubble.

Stressful childhood events often lead to the onset of IBS later in adulthood.

The gut microbiome may drastically shift in response to changes in diet. Though this may be normal (and often for the better) in non-IBS individuals, oversensitive people develop IBS in response to this change.

more causes:

• stress

• sensitivity to a multitude of the following:

  • wheat

  • dairy products

  • beans

  • milk

  • carbonated drinks

  • sugar alcohols

  • chocolate

  • refined and processed foods 

    • cookies

    • chips

    • white bread and flours

    • white rice

• worsened by any of the following:

  • fried foods

  • fatty foods

  • increase in insoluble fibers in diet

  • caffeine

  • alcohol

  • excess protein in diet

What are the symptoms?

• abdominal pain

• diarrhea (contractions too fast)

• constipation (contractions too slow)

• bloating (oversensitive nerve endings)

• flatulence (oversensitive nerve endings)

• changes in frequency of bowel movements

• changes in appearance of bowel movements

Due to the strong connection between the gut microbiome and one's mood, mood disorders may develop in response to chronic IBS. Additionally, IBS may lead to depression and anxiety if not adequately addressed.

extreme symptoms include:

• rectal bleeding

• iron deficiency anemia

• weight loss

• vomiting

• persisting pain even after bowel movements are passed

Who does it affect?

• young

• females

• individuals with family members with IBS

• those who suffer or suffered from physical, sexual, or emotional abuse 

  • those who suffer or suffered from depression or anxiety

What to do about it?

• eat smaller more frequent meals

• stay hydrated

• make note of foods that trigger one's IBS 

  • avoid these!

• regularly drinking tea

• managing stress

  • seeking other methods of addressing disorders (depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, etc)

• take care of one's body

  • exercising regularly

  • eating well to help gut microbiome

    • soluble fibers

  • sleeping well

  • not smoking

• understanding what your bowel movements mean: more info here

Written By: Siena