Unravelling the Complexity of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Are you seeking to gain a deeper understanding of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms? If that’s the case, you’ve come to the right place.

In this discussion, I will delve into irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), explore its symptoms and underlying factors, and, most importantly, share practical natural approaches to treating its root causes. 

I hope this information empowers you to take control of your digestive health and improve your well-being.

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID) in which the digestive tract stops working properly despite no damage or identifiable disease.

What are the Causes of irritable bowel syndrome?

In the past, scientists referred to IBS as “spastic colon” due to the simplified belief that muscle spasms in the GI tract were the primary cause of abdominal pain and other IBS symptoms. However, we now recognize that the mechanisms behind IBS are much more complex than previously thought.

According to scientists, specific factors, which I label as barriers to the body’s natural ability to heal itself, may play a role in causing IBS. These barriers include:

Sleep disorders

Researchers found that sleep disorders were more prevalent in people with IBS than healthy controls and that sleep issues play a role in the development of IBS.

Lack of exercise

Researchers found that people with IBS who exercised had less severe symptoms than those who did not exercise.

Poor diet and eating habits

A 2014 study highlighted a significant relationship between diet, lifestyle choices, and the symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The research indicated that certain dietary patterns and lifestyle habits could either exacerbate or alleviate IBS symptoms, suggesting that managing these factors may be essential in maintaining digestive health for individuals affected by this condition.

Chronic stress

According to a 2012 scientific paper, chronic stress is a critical factor that independently predicts the development of post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Loneliness

Research has indicated a striking connection between loneliness and the health of our gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in digestion and overall well-being. It has been observed that individuals experiencing high levels of loneliness exhibit an unstable gut microbiome, a condition that can increase the risk of developing digestive diseases. In contrast, the same study highlighted that those who reported lower levels of loneliness tended to have a more diverse and balanced gut microbiome, suggesting that emotional well-being may positively influence digestive health and a more diverse gut microbiome.

Past the physical trauma

A concussion, often referred to as a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), can lead to a variety of symptoms that mirror those experienced with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Individuals suffering from a concussion may experience cognitive disruptions, headaches, and dizziness that can overlap with gastrointestinal distress, such as abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, which are characteristic of IBS. This resemblance can complicate the diagnosis and management of both conditions, as the underlying mechanisms and experiences of each can intertwine.

Early Adverse Events

In a 2013 study, researchers found that compared to control, people with IBS reported a more significant occurrence of general trauma, physical punishment, emotional abuse and sexual events.

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth

The prevalence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) varies from 4% to 78%, depending on the study and the methods used to diagnose SIBO. A 2020 meta-analysis found that 31% of people with IBS had SIBO.

Food intolerances

Research shows that adverse food reactions may also play an important role in IBS, as up to 65% of patients with IBS report that their symptoms are related to specific foods.

It is essential to consider these barriers when developing an effective treatment plan for people with IBS.

What Conditions are Associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Scientists have also found a link between certain conditions and IBS, including:

Mental disorders

According to the researchers, about 50% of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) report additional bodily and mental symptoms, such as depression, anxiety and somatic symptom disorder.

Gastroenteritis

According to the Mayo Clinic, IBS can develop after a severe bout of diarrhea caused by bacteria or a virus, known as gastroenteritis.

Genetics

Research suggests that genes may make some people more likely to develop IBS.

A Dysfunctional Gut-B Axis.

For example, in some people with IBS, a disruption in the gut-brain relationship may mean food moves too slowly or quickly through the digestive tract. Evidence suggests that an unhealthy gut microbiome, which creates inflammation, may be an underlying cause. Inflammation could cause glitches in the cross-communication between the gut and brain, giving rise to symptoms.

What are the Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome?

According to the National Institue of Health, the most common symptoms of IBS are:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Changes in bowel habits, such as intermittent diarrhea or constipation (sometimes alternating)

Other common symptoms may include:

• Bloating
• Feeling like you haven’t finished a bowel movement
• Seeing whitish mucus in your poop

Women with IBS often have more symptoms during their periods.

IBS can be painful but doesn’t lead to other health problems or damage your digestive tract.

How Do You Diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is based on a patient’s symptoms and medical history and by ruling out other conditions such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and parasitic infections through testing, including:

• Blood tests: To check for celiac disease, anemia, or other conditions
• Comprehensive Stool tests: To check for bacterial, fungal, parasitic, viral infections, and inflammatory bowel disease.
• Lactulose breath test: To check for SIBO.

What are the treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome?

From my point of view, the main aim of treating irritable bowel syndrome is to identify and resolve barriers to the body, helping to heal itself. Let’s first look at how conventional medicine approaches the treatment of IBS.

Conventional Medicine Treatment Options for irritable bowel syndrome

Conventional medicine treats irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with a variety of medications, including:

Antispasmodics

Antispasmodic agents relax smooth muscle in the gut and reduce contractions. Dicyclomine (Bentyl) and hyoscyamine (Levsin) act through anticholinergic or antimuscarinic properties.

One meta-analysis of 23 trials found an advantage over placebo in global improvement (56 versus 38 percent), pain (53 versus 41 percent), and abdominal distension (44 versus 35 percent), but no difference regarding constipation. However, the studies were generally of poor quality. 

The anticholinergic effects of antispasmodics limit their use, especially in the long term.

Antidiarrheals

Antidiarrheal medications help irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by slowing digestion and helping the body absorb more water from the stool. This results in firmer stools and fewer bowel movements.

A meta-analysis of controlled trials found that loperamide (Imodium) can improve diarrhea in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D). Still, it has little effect on other symptoms like abdominal pain. Side effects include dizziness, tiredness, or constipation.

Osmotic Laxatives

These laxatives draw water back into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass.

A meta-analysis of osmotic laxatives for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) found that polyethylene glycol (PEG) increased the number of bowel movements per week compared to placebo. However, the analysis also found that PEG was no more effective than a placebo at reducing other IBS symptoms, such as abdominal pain and bloating. Side effects include bloating, flatulence, painful stomach cramps, nausea, and dehydration.

Low-dose antidepressants

Antidepressants may be helpful for IBS because they can affect GI motility, which refers to the muscle contractions that move food through your GI tract.

Antidepressants are efficacious in reducing symptoms in IBS patients. Psychological therapies also appear to be effective treatments for IBS, although the quality of the evidence and treatment effects may be low as a result. Side effects include dry mouth, blurry vision, and constipation.

Rifaximin

Rifaximin inhibits bacterial ribonucleic acid (RNA) synthesis and restores intestinal microflora imbalance.

Meta-analyses of studies on rifaximin and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have shown that rifaximin is more effective than a placebo for treating IBS symptoms, especially bloating. Side effects include fluid retention, nausea, constipation, dizziness, tiredness, kidney or bladder infection, trouble sleeping, and low red blood cell count.

Gabapentin and pregabalin

Gabapentin and pregabalin can help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by reducing rectal sensitivity and alleviating visceral pain.

A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis found that anti-neuropathic analgesics like gabapentin and pregabalin may help with pain in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Side effects include dizziness and drowsiness. 

The effectiveness of conventional medicine treatments for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) varies. These treatments work by blocking specific processes in the body to alleviate symptoms. However, many of these medications come with adverse side effects and should only be used in the short term when symptoms become overwhelming.

Let’s now consider some non-pharmacological treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome.

Non-Pharmacological Treatment Options for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Unlike conventional medicine, most non-pharmacological treatment options, in my opinion, help to resolve any of the barriers preventing the body from helping itself. Let’s look at the various non-pharmacological treatment options, starting with sleep.

Sleep

Improving sleep can help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in several ways, including: 

• Reducing inflammation Better sleep can decrease inflammation in the gut lining, helping IBS symptoms. 
• Improving microbiome Better sleep can help the microbiome, lessening IBS symptoms. 
• Reducing visceral hypersensitivity Better sleep can decrease sensitivity to rapid rectal distension, decrease visceral insensitivity and lessen abdominal pain in IBS. 
• Reducing the risk of IBS A healthy sleep pattern, including sleeping 7–9 hours per day, can significantly lower the risk of IBS. 

Here are some scientifically proven ways to improve sleep based on clinical trials and other research:

• Exercise: Many Studies, including a 2021 systemic review and analysis, agree that Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality and duration. Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise can help with insomnia, and adults who exercise for at least 30 minutes a day sleep longer than those who don’t. However, exercising too close to bedtime can interfere with sleep. 
• Sleep hygiene: According to the National Institute of Health website, several strategies for improving sleep hygiene exist. Avoid stimulants like alcohol, coffee, and tea for 4–6 hours before bed. Don’t smoke before or during the night, and avoid heavy meals and spicy foods before bed. Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and comfortable. Try to go to bed and wake up simultaneously each day. 
• Mindfulness meditation: A randomized clinical trial found that mindfulness meditation can improve sleep quality and daytime impairment in older adults with sleep disturbances.

Exercise

Research suggests that physical activity may help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, but the evidence is uncertain:

• Improved symptoms: A review of 11 randomized controlled trials found that physical activity may improve IBS symptoms. However, the researchers considered the evidence uncertain due to inconsistencies and a high risk of bias. 
• Long-term improvements: One study found that participants who increased their physical activity experienced improved IBS symptoms, quality of life, fatigue, depression, and anxiety, even five years later. 
• Moderate exercise: Some experts suggest moderate exercise, like jogging, may offer benefits. 
• Core exercises: Exercises focusing on core muscles, like yoga or Pilates, may be calming. 

However, there is little evidence that higher-intensity exercise is better than no exercise. Some forms of intense training, like long-distance running, could worsen symptoms.

Diet

Research shows that diet can help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): 

• Low-FODMAP diet: Research shows that This diet can reduce IBS symptoms in up to 86% of people. It can help with abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and flatulence. The diet reduces the gas and osmotic load in the colon and small bowel. However, it can be challenging, so you must work with an informed doctor or practitioner to follow it correctly. 
• Elimination diet: An individualized elimination diet that removes foods that cause elevated IgG antibodies can also help with IBS symptoms. 
• Low-carb diet: A low-carb diet can be as effective as an elimination diet for treating IBS. 
• Dietary changes: A recent study indicates that dietary changes are more effective than medications in relieving abdominal pain and other symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Seven out of ten participants reported significant improvements in their IBS symptoms after following either a specific elimination diet known as the FODMAP or a simpler low-carb diet.

Stress Management Techniques

Science shows that stress management techniques can help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and some research suggests they can be more effective than drug therapy. Stress management techniques can: 

• Reduce symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation 
• Improve quality of life 
• Improve overall physical and mental health 
• Reverse stress-induced changes in the brain 
• Alter the signalling between the brain and the gut 

Some examples of stress management techniques that have been shown to help symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include: 

• Meditation: A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis concluded that meditation effectively treats irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.
• Progressive muscle relaxation: A 2014 systematic review and meta-analysis concluded that relaxation therapy is an effective treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. 
• Autogenic training: Autogenic training (AT) is a valuable and comprehensive relaxation technique. In a 2010 randomized clinical trial, Researchers found that AT may help treat IBS by enhancing self-control. 
• Yoga: A mind-body intervention that can help with IBS. A 2022 randomized clinical trial found Yoga improved IBS symptoms and a breadth of other psychological and physiological outcomes that are understudied but frequently affect patients with IBS.
• Tai chi: A mind-body intervention that can help with IBS. A 2024 feasibility trial found that virtually administered tai chi showed promising outcomes for people with IBS constipation.

Some experts suggest that stress management techniques work best when combined with other lifestyle modifications and treatment strategies, such as dietary changes and medications. You can develop a personalized treatment plan with an IBS-informed healthcare provider.

Social Support

 Social support can be beneficial for managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Research has shown that social support can:

• Reduces stress: A 2016 study found that Social support can help people with IBS reduce stress, leading to less pain. 
• Promotes healthy lifestyle changes: The same 2016 study found that social support can motivate people to make healthy lifestyle changes, such as exercising or changing their diet, which can help relieve symptoms. 
• Improves quality of life: A 2021 study highlighted that social support could improve the quality of life and self-management behaviours of people with chronic conditions. 
• Helps people feel heard: According to MyHealthAlberta, connecting with others who have IBS can help people feel heard and reduce the stress of the unknown. That’s very lord and Lord God for having 20 from us, and we’re looking at it.

According to WebMed, people with IBS may be more sensitive to emotional troubles, such as stress, anxiety, and depression. These strong emotions can trigger chemicals in the brain that turn on pain signals in the gut. 

There are many ways to find social support. Here are some support groups for people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in Ontario:

• Canadian Digestive Health Foundation: A resource for information about digestive conditions, including IBS.
• Gastrointestinal Society: This organization has a Facebook group for people with IBS in Canada to discuss IBS, post updates, and share fundraising ideas. 
• Smart Patients: An online support group where patients and their families can share experiences and research the latest medical science. 

Supplements

Some supplements that may help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) include:

Probiotics

There are three categories of probiotics, including blended, yeast, and soil-based. A 2024 systemic review and meta-analysis concluded that probiotics were effective and safe for treating irritable bowel syndrome.

Now, look at each type’s efficacy in treating irritable bowel syndrome.

Blended Probiotics

Probiotic combinations may be more effective than single strains for treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Some studies suggest that combining Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium may be especially effective. Here are some probiotic combinations that have shown promise for treating IBS:

SCM-III

In one study, a combination of L. acidophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, and Bifidobacterium sp. improved bloating, abdominal pain, and bowel habits in 80% of patients.

L. rhamnosus GG in combination with L. rhamnosus LC705, Propionibacterium freudenreichii spp. shermanii JS, and Bifidobacterium breve Bb99 or B. animalis spp. lactis Bb12

A 2012 review paper highlighted that this combination of probiotics significantly reduced IBS symptoms in two studies.

Yeast Type Probiotics

Saccharomyces boulardii (S. boulardii) is a yeast probiotic that may help treat and prevent irritable bowel syndrome.

Multiple studies have shown that S. boulardii can improve IBS symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and flatulence. One study found that 87.5% of participants taking S. boulardii reported improved IBS symptoms, compared to 72% of those taking a placebo. Another study found that S. boulardii enhanced the quality of life for patients with IBS.

Soil-based Probiotics

Some studies have shown that soil-based probiotics may help with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms:

• Bacillus coagulans Unique IS-2: A double-blind, randomized controlled trial showed that this strain improved symptoms in school-aged children with IBS, including stool consistency, abdominal discomfort, bloating, and gas. 
• Bacillus licheniformis: This strain reduced the risk of gastrointestinal side effects from radiotherapy treatment and improved diarrhea symptoms in another clinical trial. 

Other supplements that have shown promise in treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) include:

Peppermint oil

A 2014 meta-analysis of nine studies found that peppermint oil was better than a placebo for improving IBS symptoms and abdominal pain. The American College of Gastroenterology recommends peppermint oil for IBS relief, but with low-quality evidence. 

Trauma-Informed Therapies

From my point of view, past emotional trauma plays a significant role in the development and progression of irritable syndrome. Experts believe that unresolved emotional trauma causes autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysregulation, leaving it in a sympathetic or fight-or-flight state. In this state, the ANS is a state of survival rather than healing and safety. Various therapies have been shown to help resolve past emotional trauma, including:

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)

To date, no scientific research has been conducted to investigate the effect of EMDR on abdominal pain (in IBS). Results with individual patients in clinical practice are promising. It is hypothesized that EMDR treatment will reduce abdominal pain in patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

EMDR is an evidence-based treatment for PTSD and can significantly reduce symptoms.

Somatic Experiencing

Somatic experiencing is one of my favourite trauma-informed therapies. A randomized control trial found that somatic experiencing may be an effective treatment for people with PTSD.

Reiki

There is no study on the effects of reiki and irritable bowel syndrReikihowever, some research suggests that reiki may be effective in treating trauma and other mental health conditions, but more studies are needed to confirm these findings: 

• Trauma healing: Reiki may help release trapped eReikins that can arise during a traumatic experience. Some experts say that reiki can be successful in women’s shelters, where it has been verified to help domestic violence survivors. 
• PTSD: Reiki may help reduce PTSD symptoms in combat veterans. One study at Camp Pendleton found that a combination of reiki and guided imagery therapy decreased PTSD symptoms to below the diagnostic threshold. 
• Mental health: Some research suggests that reiki may be more effective than a placebo for treating some mental health symptoms, such as stress, depression, and anxiety. However, more studies are needed, and most of the studies included in these reviews had some risk of bias.

Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)

From my experience, OMT is extremely helpful in treating irritable bowel syndrome by helping the body to process past emotional memory patterns. Furthermore, a 2023 systemic review and meta-analysis concluded that OMT is safe and may be effective in IBS patients.

Putting It All Together

My philosophy for treating irritable bowel syndrome is to eliminate the barriers that prevent the body from helping itself. This approach begins with:

1. – Improve sleep by adopting better sleep hygiene, incorporating daily movement, and practicing meditation.
2. Introducing a viable daily movement regime.
3. Finding the proper diet that reduces symptoms and allows gut healing.
4. Encouraging the use of stress management techniques, including meditation and exercise.
5. Create more connections by spending time with people who nurture you.
6. Find the right combination of probiotics, beginning with a blended type.
7. Seek out therapies that can help regulate your nervous system by helping your body resolve unprocessed trauma.

What to Expect during your healing journey?

Working through all these steps is essential to recovering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). There is no magic bullet for fixing IBS or any chronic health condition. Here are some valuable pointers to remember while on your IBS healing journey.

• No healing journey is linear; There are always ups and downs.
• You should expect to follow this process For roughly six months To achieve the desired results.
• After three months, you should begin to introduce foods. Begin slowly by introducing one food at a time.
• After beginning the diet and the supplements, you may experience some worsening of your symptoms for three to five days. This is a normal response and is thought to be part of the die-off caused by the diet and supplements.
• Remember to give your body the space and time to heal.

Now It’s Over to You

Have you implemented any of the strategies mentioned above? Are there additional strategies you have found helpful? Please share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.

Are there any other strategies you have tried that have been helpful?

Let me know by leaving a comment below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder where the digestive tract does not work correctly without any identifiable disease or damage.

What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome? The National Institutes of Health states that common IBS symptoms include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits (diarrhea and constipation), bloating, and whitish mucus in the stool.

Is there a cure for IBS? There is no definitive cure for IBS, but there are many proven ways to help the body resolve the underlying causes.

Why is IBS more common in women? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is more common in women, partly due to sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These hormones can inhibit gut contractions, affect pain signalling, and trigger symptoms during menstrual cycle fluctuations.

Do You Need Help?

If you need help, I suggest you book a free functional medicine discovery session with me to determine whether my approach fits your needs.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. Please do not apply this information without first speaking with your doctor.