22 September 2021
 Categories: , Blog

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder. Symptoms include belly pain, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, gas and nausea. IBS can range from manageable to debilitating, but thankfully there are several treatment options. This article details four treatments for IBS. Read on to find out more!

Probiotics and Prebiotics

Probiotics are good bacteria found in foods such as yoghurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, tempeh and miso. Prebiotics are foods such as garlic, greens, and whole grains. Probiotics support digestion, help combat constipation and improve immune function. They may also help relieve gas, pain and bloating. Prebiotics promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut. They boost immunity by encouraging fewer harmful bacteria to grow in your intestine. Both probiotics and prebiotics may lead to improvements in IBS symptoms, especially abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence (gas) and constipation.

Lifestyle changes

Several lifestyle factors can affect your gut health, including diet, exercise and stress levels. Lifestyle changes that can help include keeping a food diary to identify which foods worsen symptoms, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, exercising more, and managing stress. Making these lifestyle changes may reduce IBS symptoms regardless of whether you're taking medication or not. However, keep in mind that if you're making significant changes to your diet, it's essential to get advice from a registered dietitian or your usual doctor first so you don't compromise your nutrition.

Medication

Many people find that medications can reduce IBS symptoms. The main medication types for IBS include anti-spasmodic to relieve abdominal cramping, antidepressants to ease pain and anxiety, laxatives to reduce constipation, and prokinetics to improve bowel movement regularity. Some medications can help control IBS, but if you have severe symptoms, your GP might suggest a referral to a gastroenterologist. This specialist can prescribe stronger medications, such as amitriptyline or prucalopride, which have been shown to provide better symptom relief.

Pelvic floor exercises

Pelvic floor exercises work for some people with IBS because they help increase control of the muscles in your abdomen. These muscles are important for keeping your bowel movements regular, reducing stress to your bowels and preventing constipation. Kegel exercise is a type of pelvic floor muscle training that involves tightening and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles to improve function. They are simple to perform. You simply need to clench and release the muscles you would use to stop urinating mid-flow. Kegel exercises may reduce IBS symptoms, particularly abdominal pain and the need to rush to the toilet.

If you would like further advice and info, contact local IBS treatment services.