IBS and Digestive Problems

According to recent research, 9-23% of the British population suffer from IBS and digestive problems. Change of diets, over-use of antibiotics and increase in stress has co-incided with more and more individuals visiting their doctor with ‘unexplained’ digestive problems. Almost every single one will receive an apologetic diagnosis of ‘IBS’ (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Some will be prescribed anti-spasmodics. And almost none will see improvements in their symptoms. This is because ‘IBS’ is simply a catch-all, a lazy term used which only tells us that there is some sort of imbalance between the mouth and the anus.

While this means that ‘IBS’ in itself is not an actual diagnosis, the symptoms most associated with poor digestive health are very tangible. They include:
- diarrhoea, constipation and a swing between the two
- bloating
- nausea
- abdominal pain
- getting full quickly
- excess gas

While this acute symptoms can make life miserable for sufferers, everyone with digestive problems will also experience mood problems, whether they realise it or not. The intestines are often called “the second brain”, and for good reason. There are more neurotransmitters in the gut than in the brain itself, and this accounts for the profound effect that digestive function has on our mood. Decades of research show us how reactions in the intestines can directly cause low mood, anxiety or aggression.

While these direct issues are serious enough, any disturbances in the intestinal function will also inhibit the breakdown and absorption of vitamins and minerals. Therefore, the health of the digestive tract remains a priority for all. With this in mind, practitioners should assess:
- bacterial balance
- pancreatic function/enzymes
- stomach acid status
- digestive motility
- fermentation profile (protein/carb/fibre)

A holistic approach to digestive health can yield spectacular improvements in both symptoms and overall well-being. While an inert diagnosis of ‘IBS’ leads down a familiar road of disappointment, a genuine screening of digestive function and the provision of suitable therapy delivers real results. Results that give you freedom from pain and discomfort, results that transform your mood and energy levels. Get in touch now.