Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a problem of the gastro-intestinal system which is affecting more and more people.
Possible IBS Triggers
1. Food hypersensitivity or intolerances
2. Stress or emotional problems
3. Parasites or unfriendly bacteria which can cause intestinal infections and inflammation. These can lead to an increase in the permeability of the intestinal mucosa. This is called Leaky Gut Syndrome. This allows food particles and chemicals to enter the bloodstream before they are fully digested. The immune system can become overloaded by this and trigger an increase in the body's inflammatory response, giving rise to mucosal sensitivity, unusual motility and secretory response.
4. Dysbiosis. This is where bacterial populations in the intestinal tract become imbalanced.
5. Altered bowel flora. This can be the result of antibiotics, laxatives, diarrhoea or low dietary fibre.
Diet & Lifestyle
An increase in the consumption of dietary fibre, mainly from vegetables and fruits as well as a greater water intake and reduced intake of diuretic caffeine containing drinks such as tea and coffee.
Toxic bacteria (dysbiosis), constipation and diarrhoea may be caused by food intolerances and sensitivities.
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. Reduced consumption of alcohol, cola drinks, tea and coffee, and chocolate.
3. Identifying food sensitivities or allergies and eliminating the foods that give rise to them.
4. Although some people do have problems with raw foods, in general there are benefits from increasing fibre intake from fruits and vegetables.
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.
The therapist may feel that that laboratory blood tests are required to find out if there are any food allergies or sensitivities. Other tests that can be ordered include those for leaky gut syndrome and overgrowth of candida yeast.
Maria Esposito is a complementary health professional specialising in nutritional therapy and allergy testing. She practises in England. She can be contacted at london nutritionist. A complete version of this article can be seen there.
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