Irritable bowel syndrome - why does it happen and what we can do about it?

Do you often feel a sudden urge to use the bathroom after drinking a strong cup of filter coffee? Or perhaps you experience bloating and excessive gas after eating? Have you ever suffered from severe abdominal pain shortly after a meal? Or frequent heartburn? Do you sometimes feel constipated, yet also have an ongoing urge to poop? Or have you felt your bowels act up when you’re stressed before an interview or waiting for exam results?

These are common symptoms of IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome. As the name suggests, certain foods may not sit well with your gut, causing it to react. However, it’s important to note that IBS can also be triggered by mental health issues. Your mental well-being plays a key role in gut health, and vice versa, as hormone production impacts both. In fact, people with IBS are more likely to suffer from anxiety as well.

So, what causes IBS?

• Some people’s large intestine contracts more in response to certain foods, leading to uncomfortable bowel movements.

• Others may have hypersensitive nerves in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

• Food intolerances can also contribute to IBS.
• A history of severe food infections may also play a role.

While there’s no known cure for IBS, the good news is that it can be managed effectively! IBS is often triggered by a group of foods known as fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs). These triggers vary from person to person. If you’re unsure of your triggers, try keeping a food diary. Start by eliminating foods that seem to cause discomfort, then reintroduce them one by one to identify the culprits. Once you know which foods trigger your symptoms, aim to avoid them regularly.

Another helpful way to manage IBS is through exercise and maintaining activity levels throughout the day. Staying active promotes regular bowel movements and helps clear gas from the gut. Regular exercise also strengthens core muscles and boosts the production of endorphins, which are hormones that promote relaxation, better sleep, and reduced stress and anxiety over time.

Additional tips for managing IBS include:

• Drinking plenty of water
• Increasing your?fiber?intake

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