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The main culprits in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Revealed!

Learn about the main culprits of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms and how to manage them better by bobbyhayes
Estimated reading time: 3 min 38 sec
The main culprits in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Revealed!

Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be challenging, particularly if you’re still trying to figure out what triggers your symptoms.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to managing IBS, but research shows that certain foods, lifestyle factors, and medical conditions can contribute to IBS symptoms.

What is IBS?

IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. It’s a chronic condition that can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, research suggests that genetics, altered gut motility, inflammation, and stress can play a role in the development of IBS.

1. Food Triggers

If you have IBS, you may find that certain foods trigger your symptoms. The following foods have been known to aggravate IBS in some people:.

  • Fried foods
  • Caffeine
  • Alcohol
  • Carbonated drinks
  • Processed snacks and ready meals
  • Dairy products
  • Beans
  • Cabbage
  • Broccoli

It’s important to note that food triggers vary from person to person, and eliminating these foods from your diet may not be necessary if they don’t affect you.

2. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can trigger IBS symptoms, and vice versa. This is because stress can affect the movement and contractions of your digestive tract, leading to constipation, diarrhea, and other symptoms associated with IBS.

Learning to manage stress is crucial if you have IBS.

3. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

SIBO occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine. This can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea, and it’s been linked to a higher incidence of IBS. SIBO is typically treated with antibiotics and dietary changes.

If you suspect you have SIBO, speak to your doctor about getting tested.

4. Gut Motility Issues

Problems with gut motility, or the movement of food through the digestive tract, can contribute to IBS symptoms. This can include a slow-moving digestive system, which can cause constipation, or a fast-moving system, which can lead to diarrhea.

If you have IBS, your doctor may recommend medication to help regulate your gut motility.

5. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes can also contribute to IBS symptoms, particularly in women. Research suggests that fluctuations in hormones during the menstrual cycle can affect gut motility and aggravate IBS symptoms.

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If you experience worsening symptoms during your menstrual cycle, speak to your doctor about hormone therapy options.

6. Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity

Non-celiac gluten sensitivity is a condition in which people experience symptoms similar to those with celiac disease, but without the presence of gluten antibodies.

It’s thought to affect up to 6% of the population, and it can be a contributing factor in IBS symptoms for some people. If you suspect you have gluten sensitivity, try eliminating gluten from your diet for a few weeks, and see if your symptoms improve.

7. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD is an umbrella term that refers to a group of inflammatory diseases of the digestive tract, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

While IBD and IBS are not the same condition, IBD can contribute to IBS symptoms, particularly during a flare-up. If you have IBS and experience worsening symptoms, speak to your doctor about getting tested for IBD.

8. Medications

Some medications can contribute to IBS symptoms, including antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and certain antidepressants.

If you’re taking medication and experience IBS symptoms, speak to your doctor about alternative treatment options.

9. Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome are chronic conditions that can affect many aspects of your life, including digestion. Research suggests that fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome may be associated with a higher incidence of IBS.

If you have any of these conditions and experience IBS symptoms, speak to your doctor about getting tested.

10. Rapid Food Consumption

While there isn’t one specific food that causes IBS, the way food is consumed can affect IBS symptoms. Rapid food consumption, for example, can cause air to accumulate in the digestive system, leading to bloating and discomfort.

Slowing down and chewing food thoroughly can help minimize these symptoms.

Conclusion

While IBS can be a frustrating and unpredictable condition, understanding what triggers your symptoms can help you manage them better.

In most cases, avoiding trigger foods, learning to manage stress, and working with your doctor to find the right treatment plan can help you live a more comfortable life with IBS.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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