Master Your Gut: Top Tips For Confidently Managing IBS Symptoms from Dr Philips
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects millions of people worldwide, causing abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and uncomfortable bloating. It's a complex disorder rooted in the gut-brain interaction, making the gut more sensitive to various triggers. These triggers include psychological factors, specific foods, and the composition of the gut microbiome.
“Managing IBS effectively involves a holistic approach, encompassing lifestyle modifications, dietary adjustments, stress management, and sometimes, medication.” said Dr Philips, Gastroenterology Registrar and Academic Clinical Fellow.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of Dr Philips’ top tips for managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Regular Exercise to Alleviate IBS Symptoms:
There is some recent trial evidence indicating that incorporating regular exercise into your routine can be a game-changer for IBS management. Especially if you experience IBS with constipation.
Exercise not only promotes better bowel regularity but also helps reduce stress levels—a well-known trigger for IBS symptoms. By making exercise a part of your daily life, you can significantly improve your IBS experience.
Soluble Fibre vs. Insoluble Fibre:
Diet plays a crucial role in managing IBS, and one dietary component that can be particularly helpful is soluble fibre. Foods like ispaghula husk (psyllium) are rich in soluble fibre and have been proven effective in reducing abdominal pain associated with IBS.
Conversely, it's essential to limit insoluble fibre, found in wheat and bran, as it can exacerbate symptoms in some individuals.
Explore the Low FODMAP Diet:
The Low FODMAP diet has gained recognition as an effective treatment for IBS. FODMAPs (which stand for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols), are certai
n types of carbohydrates found in various foods.
These particular carbohydrates can trigger IBS symptoms in individuals that are predisposed to the condition. A Low FODMAP diet, typically supervised by a trained dietitian, involves eliminating high-FODMAP foods and then gradually reintroducing them to identify specific triggers.
This approach can be highly effective in managing IBS symptoms by tailoring your diet to your specific sensitivities.
Harness the Power of Probiotics:
The gut microbiome of people with IBS may differ from that of those without the condition. Probiotics, often referred to as "friendly bacteria," can potentially help alleviate IBS symptoms. Consider trying a friendly bacteria supplement for up to 12 weeks.
If you don't notice any improvements in your symptoms during that time, it may be best to discontinue use. Discuss the choice of probiotics with your healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for your situation.
Ferrocalm, created by a team of expert gut scientists, contains friendly live bacteria that can survive and thrive even during a period of active inflammation; this is a time where many other friendly bacteria can’t survive. The capsules are protected with a special coating that means they don’t dissolve in the stomach or small intestine, but instead deliver the largest dose to your large intestine, which is where it’s most needed.
Over-the-Counter Medications for IBS Relief:
For some individuals with IBS, over-the-counter medications can offer relief from specific symptoms. Two common options include mebeverine and peppermint oil. Mebeverine can help reduce muscle cramps and spasms in the gut, and peppermint oil may alleviate abdominal discomfort. You can find these medications at your local pharmacy, but it's always a good idea to consult with a pharmacist before use.
Consult Your Doctor for Advanced Treatment:
If you've tried dietary and lifestyle modifications but still struggle with IBS symptoms, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional. Some treatments, particularly those targeting the gut-brain interaction (neuromodulators), require a prescription from your doctor. Your healthcare provider can offer a comprehensive assessment of your condition and tailor a treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
Dr Philips said, “IBS is a manageable condition, and with the right strategies, and professional guidance, you can live a more comfortable and fulfilling life.”
Managing IBS is an ongoing journey, and by incorporating these top tips into your daily routine, as well as seeking guidance from healthcare professionals when needed, you can gain more control over IBS symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.
About Dr Philips
Dr Philips graduated from the University of Bristol 11 years ago. She has years of experience working as a doctor. For the past 5 years she has worked as a Gastroenterology Registrar and Academic Clinical fellow. This role combines her passion for research into gut disorders alongside the challenging and holistic nature of caring for patients with gastrointestinal problems.