The symptoms of IBS have been recognized since the mid-1900s, but at that time, the condition remained a mystery. Unfortunately, not much has changed since then. Doctors are still unclear about the exact cause of IBS and they haven’t found a cure for the condition, either. In fact, until recent history they didn’t even have a real name for it.

 

Because there is so much missing information, people have tried to fill in the gaps with misinformed statements and outright lies. Sadly, many of these myths are so strongly perpetuated in our society that they’ve discouraged people with IBS from seeking treatment. Nearly 70 percent of individuals with IBS are suffering from symptoms and going without medical care.

 

If you’ve never researched the truth behind IBS, you may be surprised to find out how the condition actually affects patients. Take a look at the list below to see how we disprove the top five myths regarding IBS.

 

1. IBS is a fatal diagnosis

Although IBS can be quite uncomfortable and life-altering, it is not fatal. IBS affects the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, but it does not cause inflammation or alter any of the bowel tissue. This means that the digestive organs are unharmed. It is true that there’s no cure for IBS. However, unlike some other GI diseases, IBS does not lead to colorectal cancer or any other potentially fatal diseases.

 

2. IBS is the same for every patient

Every IBS patient has abdominal pain or discomfort, but that’s where the similarity ends. Individuals with IBS may experience diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of the two. They may also have other GI symptoms like heartburn or nausea. The symptoms may be mild or severe. Some patients experience symptoms that come and go. Other patients have constant symptoms.

 

The triggers of IBS also vary from patient to patient. Some individuals have symptoms after eating certain foods or taking certain medications. Other patients may see symptoms arise when they’re feeling especially stressed or anxious. Women may also see their symptoms worsen during their menstrual cycle.

 

3. IBS is a simple diagnosis

Because IBS doesn’t alter the tissue of the GI tract, it’s difficult for doctors to make a quick diagnosis. In other words, there is no “smoking gun” that would show them what the problem is or where it started. In the beginning, doctors perform a full physical exam and record the patient’s medical history. In particular, they’re looking to see how long the patient has had the pain and discomfort in the GI tract. If it’s been more than 12 weeks (the weeks do not need to have been consecutive) and the patient has seen a substantial change in bowel habits, the doctor may suggest that it’s IBS. Doctors sometimes order more tests to rule out other GI diseases. It may sound illogical, but doctors make a diagnosis of IBS after all of this testing comes back normal.

 

4. People with IBS can’t live normal lives

People with IBS are often unnecessarily isolated from the rest of the population. Sometimes this is voluntary, but other times, it is because their friends or coworkers aren’t educated about the condition. Either way, IBS patients can use several strategies to control the symptoms and go on living a normal life. After diagnosis, an IBS patient can start working to find ways to cope with the condition. For example, many individuals keep a record of their symptoms, diet, and notable events. After a few weeks, they may be able to see a pattern and they can avoid those triggers in the future. They can also begin to try new treatments. Things like exercise, prescription medication, herbs, probiotics, acupuncture, or meditation can be quite effective in lessening IBS symptoms.

 

5. IBS is entirely dependent on diet

Diet and IBS symptoms can be related, but that’s not always the case. Most IBS patients have trigger foods, such as coffee, refined sugars and flours, fried foods, or foods with high amounts of fiber. Beyond that, they also experience IBS triggers related to emotions and biological functions. For example, some researchers have suggested that people with IBS have abnormal levels of serotonin, an important hormone for digestive health. IBS symptoms may also be triggered by low levels of “good” bacteria in the gut. Also, some patients see a rise in symptoms due to stress or anxiety.

 

Living with the symptoms of IBS and trying to find the right treatment can be extremely difficult. If you have recently received a diagnosis of IBS, remind yourself not to believe the popular myths surrounding this condition. Buying in to the doom-and-gloom or “it’s all in your head” stories of IBS will only make your situation worse. Get the truth by speaking with your doctor, consulting a dietician, finding research studies from credible institutions, or looking for comradery from an IBS support group.

 

 

 

The sun is shining, the birds are singing and you’re in a great mood but your bowels?  Not so much.  Irritable Bowel System (IBS) affects roughly 20% of the population.  IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder that does not harm the gastric system but does cause discomfort and embarrassment.

Women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with IBS.  Unfortunately, the causes of IBS are somewhat murky.  A combination of mental and physical factors can lead to IBS but it’s impossible to predict.

For many, diet is a critical component in the trigger and relief of IBS symptoms.  Food allergies account for a significant amount of IBS-related discomfort.  Keeping a food diary can help you figure out what foods are problematic.

In general, IBS sufferers should avoid or moderate intake of greasy food, dairy, whole grains, raw fruit, vegetables, artificial sweeteners, carbonated beverages, alcohol, spicy food, nuts, seeds and chocolate.  While many of these items are part of a balanced diet, they tend to be harder on the gastrointestinal tract.  According to Dr. Mark Hyman,

A landmark paper, was recently published in the prestigious British medical journal Gut that found eliminating foods identified through delayed food allergy testing (IgG antibodies) resulted in dramatic improvements in IBS symptoms. Another article, an editorial in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, stated clearly that we must respect and recognize the role of food allergies and inflammation in IBS.”

Food allergies aside, what can you eat safely?

Fruits such as bananas, honeydew melon, mandarin oranges, raspberries and strawberries are easily digestible.

Focus on vegetables like bell peppers, bok choy, corn, eggplant, sweet potatoes, and carrots.  These options are less fibrous than some of their counterparts and are therefore easier to digest.

Whole grains can trigger (or worsen) IBS symptoms.  Stick to gluten-free products or oats.

Fiber is an essential part of every diet but it’s especially important for IBS sufferers in order to keep “things moving.”  The trick is consume sources of fiber that are gastrointestinal-friendly.

If you are diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome, talk with your doctor about the relationship between food allergies and IBS.  A few lifestyle changes may help your irritable bowels become a little less… well, irritable.