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How To Overcome Irritable Bowel Syndrome

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

Triggers of IBS

1. Hypersensitivity or intolerances to foods

2. Stress or emotional disturbances

3. Intestinal infections and inflammation caused by parasites or unfriendly bacteria. These can cause an increase in intestinal mucosal permeability (Leaky Gut Syndrome), which allows food and chemicals to enter the blood stream before they are properly digested. This can overload the immune system and cause an increase in the body's inflammatory response, triggering mucosal sensitivity, abnormal motility and secretory response.

4. Dysbiosis. The good and bad bacteria in the intestines become imbalanced.

5. Altered bowel flora. This can be the result of antibiotics, laxatives, diarrhoea or low dietary fibre.

Diet & Lifestyle

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.

Diarrhoea, constipation and dysbiosis (toxic bacteria) may be attributed directly to sensitivities and intolerances to foods.

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.

Food intolerances are thought to play a major role in the pathology of IBS. This can result in bacterial fermentation, creating an increase in hydrogen gas that may trigger certain IBS symptoms.

Possible natural treatments for IBS:

1. Drink plenty of water - about a litre and a half. This is in addition to other drinks.

2. Reduced consumption of alcohol, cola drinks, tea and coffee, and chocolate.

3. Identifying and eliminating possible food sensitivities/allergies.

4. Increasing fibre intake by eating more fruit and vegetables (NB: eating raw foods can be a problem for some people).

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

The treatment is a collaboration between the client and the therapist. It is, therefore, vital that the client be committed to taking an active role in dealing with the disorder.

If the practitioner feels it is necessary, laboratory tests may be ordered to find out if the patient has food allergies or intolerances, candida overgrowth or a leaky gut.

Article Source: http://www.lifeweightloss.com

The full version of this article can be seen at nutritionist london. The author is a nutritionist and carries out allergy testing at her practice in England. She can be contacted on the complementary health website.

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