Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Second only to colds and flu as the most frequent cause for missing work and school, six million Canadians suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It’s the most common gastrointestinal problem seen by doctors. Symptoms include increased gas and bloating, abdominal pain and spasm, and the sensation that your bowel is not emptying completely. Many sufferers experience alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea. IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion, which means that by the time you’ve been told you have it, Crohn’s, colitis and other more serious conditions have been ruled out. IBS does not have the inflammation, ulceration and tissue abnormalities present in other intestinal disorders.

Food Triggers

Stress causes your nervous system to shut down digestion. Irritants in your gut cause intestinal spasms. Food sensitivities, in particular lactose intolerance, are found in a high percentage of people with this disorder. Intolerances to food can trigger immune responses in the gut that lead to inflammation and an imbalance of bacteria (dysbiosis).

Multiple Treatments Needed

Sometimes it can be a challenge to determine the cause of your IBS. Allergy testing helps confirm the specific foods that are bothering you and interfering with the healing process (dairy, sugar and grains are the most common). Diet modification and special herbal formulations significantly improve overall digestion and bowel symptoms. Colon hydrotherapy treatments rejuvenate your colon by removing toxic debris, strengthening muscular tone and relieving constipation. This re-establishes normal bowel function and improves your body’s ability to assimilate food nutrients. Vital Signs testing provides a measure of how your body is responding to stress. Oral medicines or injection therapy are then used to reduce the impact of stress on you and your bowel. This works especially well when IBS is caused by an irregularity in nerves responsible for muscle contractions in your bowel.

Fiber Facts

Foods high in fiber can be a problem for IBS. They can aggravate symptoms, especially if large amounts are introduced suddenly. To avoid negative reactions to foods containing soluble fiber (fruits and vegetables), slow introduction is best. This is very important if loose bowels are a concern.

Gut Solutions

Don’t suffer with IBS. Many drugs that are used for IBS often make matters worse. Natural medicines and therapies, however, without adverse side effects, provide effective relief and long-term restoration of normal bowel function.

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