IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME
Chronic gut symptoms are becoming more and more common in our society. Many of these symptoms have been associated with a diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and include;
- Constipation
- Incomplete bowel evacuation
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Heartburn
These types of chronic symptoms can be frustrating to deal with. For many suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), following a healthy diet is simply not enough. In fact in some cases it can actually make things worse. Many people who experience constipation and bloating find that eating more fibre, or eating lots of fruits and vegetables only increases their discomfort and pain.
An often overlooked cause of IBS is imbalanced gut bacteria. Overgrowths of certain bacteria can compromise the health of the gut wall. This can increase inflammation, hypersensitivity and as a result, sensations of discomfort and pain. These bacteria can also produce gas in the upper part of the digestive tract. This can lead to symptoms like painful trapped wind, heart burn and nausea. Some bacteria produce substances that feed inflammation in the body and brain. This can drive symptoms like brain fog, fatigue and joint pain, as well as changes in mood and mental health.
THE GUT-BRAIN CONNECTION
A 2014 meta-analysis found that those with IBS (specifically IBS-C and IBS-D) are also more likely to experience depression and anxiety (Fond et al., 2014). While the nature of this connection is always clear, we do know that emotional stress can powerfully shape gut health. Stress can reduce the secretion of stomach acid, slow digestion and decrease nutrient absorption. It can also alter the gut microbiome. For those with IBS and heightened stress, this can create a vicious cycle.
Because of this vicious cycle, we believe in treating both the gut and the nervous system in order to help those with IBS and chronic gut symptoms experience long-term relief.
Are you tired of dealing with IBS and chronic gut symptoms? Book a Free Gut Health Assessment to discuss your concerns, learn about root causes and how you can recover.
References
Fond, G. et al., (2014). Anxiety and depression comorbidities in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): a systematic review and meta-analysis. European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience, 264(8), 651–660. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00406-014-0502-z
OTHER SERVICES
