IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a health ailment that is mainly due to a change in the quality of bowel movements and disruption in brain functionality. However, there are many other reasons which could be considered as a trigger of IBS including a poor diet, stress, sleeping disorders, environmental toxicity, microbiome dysbiosis and more. However, these reasons can vary for every individual so it can get difficult at times to diagnose and reach some specific treatment, supplement protocol or dietary plan that help relieve the problem.
So, we bring you a small list of IBS signs and symptoms which could help in recognizing if you are suffering with the same issue.
Diarrhea: Diarrhea is one of the most common forms of symptoms when it comes to irritable bowel syndrome. This mainly occurs due to the excessive contraction of muscles or an increase in osmolality, causing water to be “pulled” into the bowels and functioning at a rapid speed.
Bloating: Another symptom of IBS is bloating or gas. Bloating is also referred to as gas collected in the intestinal tract or due to inflammation or irritation of the gut from food sensitivities. Gas or flatulence can be due to an overgrowth of bacteria in the small or large intestine which distends the abdomen with feeling of fullness and appears to be bigger as the day passes.
Constipation: Everyone at one time or another has experienced constipation. Constipation is a condition which develops when an individual has a small volume or infrequency of a bowel movement, causing a toxic build-up of stool in the lower bowels. Some of the reasons behind constipation could be dehydration, lack of proper diet such as high sugar intake with low fiber consumption, and of course, stress. One can easily get rid of this condition by drinking more water, regular exercising, and proper intake of soluble and insoluble fibers.
Sleeping Disorders: IBS can also be indirectly related to insomnia as the shift in circadian rhythm can change the ability to have regular bowel movements at the optimal period, i.e. 5 am to 7 am. If you tend to wake up frequently, feel restless in the mornings, and feel a need to sleep in later hours, mind these habits as it could lead to IBS.
Food Intolerance: Food intolerance, especially to fermentable carbohydrates can trigger IBS symptoms. Some of the IBS food triggers include dairy, wheat and other grass grains, alcohol, mushrooms, some fruits, and veggies. These foods can also trigger the reaction in people with sensitive stomach leading to food intolerance. Here is my list of anti-inflammatory and low fermentable carbohydrate foods to eat and which ones not to eat [Hyperlink here: https://drsusanne.com/foodlist] to eliminate IBS symptoms such as gas, bloating and inflammation. Follow the list for 6 to 8 weeks and then start incorporating the veggies and fruits slowly back into your diet.
Overall, lifestyle changes like regular exercise, healthy diet, adequate sleep, are all helpful strategies to mitigate IBS symptoms. It only takes a healthy lifestyle and some improvements in routine to build immunity, optimize your metabolism and prevent any future health issues. All the best!
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