IBS: Explained like a Human Being

We have an epidemic of IBS in the UK at the moment.  The trouble is it seems to be the answer to every digestive problem anyone has and once you have been labelled with it, it can feel a bit like a dietary prison sentence.  This post is IBS from my point of view, a perspective I have developed from the people I have worked with.  If it fits with you great, if it doesn't that's OK too.  Do what feels best for you because ultimately, that is what will work.

What is IBS?

IBS is an umbrella term for a range of digestive symptoms which become persistent.  A sufferer of IBS will usually put up with diarrhea, constipation, cramping, nausea or a combination of all of these miserable things on a regular basis.  Certain foods or certain combinations of foods may trigger the condition but as with all conditions, it is exacerbated by stress.  

How do you get it?

Stress is a predominant factor in all digestive conditions, but it is certainly not the only reason IBS develops.  With western diets we tend to eat a lot of dairy and wheat, additives and glutinous foods, we also make large portions that overload the digestive system.  The digestive tract is a very sensitive system and trying to rush to work, shoving a sandwich down on the bus whilst making lists in your mind for the day ahead is not a good way to keep a steady, healthy flow going.

Once you are suffering with the side effect of that pattern, perhaps indigestion or constipation the system is already under stress and you might be in pain, so your digestive system is tense and not in a good state to digest anything.  This in my opinion is how the cycle begins.  A simple trigger that builds into something more.

There are other conditions which can cause it and have similar symptoms such as candida or lactose intolerance, a nutritionist or naturopath should be able to help you work it out. Once there is a disruption in the delicate acid balance and bacterial flora it creates a series of problems which can take a while to fix.  The good news whatever caused it, it can be fixed and patience and time will pay off.

How would I tackle it?

I think the best way to address IBS is to isolate the terms from the symptoms.  I think to take the label away and deal with what is going on with the body is a great place to start.  Once someone is told they have IBS it is easy for them to start blaming themselves or their body for having this 'stess related', 'diet induced' THING! 

It is reassuring to know you have something and it is not just you doing everything wrong. Sure. But leave it at that and start addressing it as a simple digestive problem that will go away with time and a little experimentation. The digestive system is like a science experiment, with a few adjustments it can go from a gas releasing semi-explosion to something much more balanced and manageable if you give it some care and time.

How to start getting in charge?

It is a great idea to start a diary of the things which seem to make it worse, making notes of how you feel emotionally at that time.  I have some clients who get frustrated that something will be fine one day and leave them in agony the next.  Try not to let this worry you, your acid balance will be different day to day and it is about slowly getting to grips with some kind of pattern, there will always be anomalies.   

Seek a nutritionist or naturopath who puts you at ease, seems to understand how you feel and gives you advice which feels right.  Always go on recommendation if you can and try not to give up if the first person you try doesn't seem to have the right approach.


1. Try not to eat overly large portions

2. Try Digestive Enzymes

3. Use Probiotics and fermented foods

4. Peppermint Oil

5. Calming Teas

6. Plenty of Sleep

7. Eat when you are relaxed

8. Hot Water Bottle on a troubled tummy

9. Psyllium husk or Chia Gel for fibre

Good Luck getting in control and be reassured that you don't have to have IBS forever.  Things will get in balance in time, just give your body the space and time to do what it does best and support it along the way with methods that work for you.

Josie