What is IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common digestive disorder which can cause troublesome and persistent symptoms. More than half of all patients attending gastroenterology outpatient clinics have IBS. A third of all people in Britain have occasionally symptoms of IBS and 1 in 10 have symptoms bad enough to require medical attention. Women tend to seek medical attention more often than men but the prevalence in men and women is similar. IBS commonly starts between 15 and 40 years of age, but may occur at any age.

What causes IBS?

The cause of IBS is not yet fully understood although latest thinking would suggest a persistent state if inflammation in the gut. Research has shown that the bowel in IBS sufferers is more sensitive than usual and this sensitivity sets off a reaction which causes symptoms. This sensitivity could be associated with food intolerances , poor diet, lack of dietary fibre and poor levels of gut bacteria to name a few culprits out of an exhaustive list of possibilities. This results in spasms of the bowel muscle. It may also be referred to as a functional bowel disorder, dysmotility.

The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include: abdominal aching or pain, diarrhoea and/or constipation, flatulence, abdominal distension or rumbling.

Are there any tests?

The best test for IBS is called a Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis which requires a stool sample and which is very thorough. It can illustrate whether there are fungal overgrowths of micro-organisms eg, candida albicans, what the relationship is in the gut between the good and bad bacteria which normally flourish there, whether there are infective or parasitic organisms present and if there are likely to be food intolerances to list just a few of the features which can be measured. It is best to discuss with your nutritionist the test which best suits your presenting symptoms.

What can I do?

I would always recommend a test in the case of IBS to quickly establish the main problem areas that are creating the condition. Common food intolerances that can exascerbate symptoms include wheat, dairy, corn, coffee, tea, wine and citrus fruits. Exclusions diets are required. Candida and other parasitic organisms need to be eliminated, gut flora and fauna restored to normal and digestive enzymes and other secretions supplemented if necessary. Other supplements which could prove effective might include but are not limited to: B complex for muscle tone in the GI tract, probiotics, fibre, L-glutamine, N-Acetylglucosamine (NAG) - one of the main components of intestinal lining - and a multi vitamin and mineral.

How can I contact you?

If you would like further information or a consultation please contact me using the contact form on this website.