IBS an introduction and some simple steps to take

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a complex condition with many subtypes. Often there are multiple underlying factors that can contribute to an IBS-diagnosis, such as nutritional/digestive deficiencies, infections, adverse food reactions and anxiety/stress.

Studies suggest that for patients diagnosed with IBS, the pathophysiology includes an altered gut microbiome, increased inflammation and intestinal permeability, and systemic immune reactivity(1). The gut microbiome plays such an important role in our overall health. Read more HERE. For IBS an individual approach is key, and finding a practitioner that can guide you through this can be incredibly helpful.

In functional medicine, we use a program that goes by the simple acronym of the 5Rs: remove, replace, reinoculate, repair, and rebalance. When applied to various chronic health issues, the 5R program can lead to a dramatic improvement in symptoms and sometimes even complete resolution.

1. Remove 2. Replace 3. Reinoculate

4. Repair

5. Rebalance

There are other modifiable lifestyle interventions being shown in research to help in the treatment and management of IBS including,

• Acupuncture
• Yoga
• Tai Chi
• Meditation

What are some ancient and proven ways to treat IBS?

• Bone Broth. Taking bone broth protein can help to regenerate the gut lining.
• Ginger. This is powerful in reducing gut inflammation
• Astragalus. This wonder supplement helps to strengthen immunity and digestion.
• Probiotics. Work with a practitioner in this and ensure you are getting a high enough strength and the right strain.
• Peppermint and ginger oil in water can be effective. (avoid peppermint if you have severe reflux).
• Digestive bitters can be helpful before meals
• Reduce Stress (start by including deep breathing into your day to day activities)
• Omega 3. Take a good quality Omega 3 supplement (avoid excessive omega 6 (seed oils and processed foods)

This list is by no means conclusive, and following the 5R program is key, as removing those triggers that may cause inflammation and/or infection in the first case is the so important as part of the healing process.

References

- IFM (Institute of Functional Medicine)

- (1) Lazaridis N, Germanidis G. Current insights into the innate immune system dysfunction in irritable bowel syndrome. Ann Gastroenterol. 2018;31(2):171-187. doi:10.20524/aog.2018.0229

- Ancient Remedies for Modern Life by Dr Josh Axe