Can Intermittent Fasting Help IBS?

Watchful eating, regular exercise, medication and antibiotics are traditional methods of managing IBS symptoms. However, more and more patients are recognizing the benefits of intermittent fasting in dealing with IBS. 

Can intermittent fasting help with IBS? Anecdotal evidence shows that intermittent fasting can indeed improve a patient’s quality of life by reducing pain and discomfort, as well as regulating bowel movements. 

In this article, we talk about the benefits of intermittent fasting on IBS, and what happens in your body when your intestines aren’t busy digesting food.

What Is Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting (or IF) is an eating pattern with periods or cycles of eating and fasting. Unlike regular meal times, people on an IF schedule fast for a specific number of hours and only eat within a certain window. Intermittent fasting is not concerned with the kinds of food you eat but is more focused on the timing of consumption. 

Intermittent Fasting VS Regular Fasting

Regular fasting can be predicated on medical conditions or religious practices. Individuals undergoing a fast go on hours of not eating, sometimes extending to days, in respect to medical prerequisites (when preparing for a colonoscopy) or according to religious mandates (during the holy month of Ramadan). 

On the other hand, intermittent fasting is a dietary option usually done for its perceived benefits, the most popular of which is weight loss. Unlike regular fasting, intermittent fasting follows a schedule and is recurring. Individuals who adopt IF often make adjustments to their lifestyle, specifically with their meal times, in order to accommodate the cycles of eating and fasting. 

Types of Intermittent Fasting

The key principle of intermittent fasting is limiting your meal times within a certain window. As such, there is no one way to do IF. Below are three of the most popular ways to do IF: 

1. 16/8 Method

Considered by many as the most sustainable way to perform IF. The 16/8 method involves 16 hours of fasting and a window of 8 hours for consumption. The 16/8 window can be adjusted into 14-16 hours of fasting with 8-10 hours of consumption.

The 16/8 is sustainable because it already resembles regular feeding patterns. An example of a 16/8 method is eating your last meal at 6 PM and eating your next meal at 10 am. To many people, this eating pattern is already instinctive and doesn’t need to be reinforced. But to those who tend to snack every hour, IF might prove beneficial for their weight loss goals. 

2. 5:2 Fasting

The 16/8 method requires a daily commitment to the fasting and eating times. Another option called the 5:2 fasting only involves 2 days of fasting every week. Instead of consuming the usual 1,500 – 2,000 calories per day, dieters are expected to eat only 500 – 600 calories for two select days and eat normally for the rest of the week.

Although less restrictive, the lower amount of calories consumed twice a week may prove too few for some individuals. The 5:2 fasting is typically not recommended for individuals who need consistently high energy to complete their day to day activities. 

3. Eat-Stop-Eat 

Eat-Stop-Eat refers to a 24-hour fasting cycle done one to two times a week. Doctors don’t recommend fasting for more than 24 hours for longer than 3 days because this can severely impact your energy levels. 

Drinking water, coffee, and tea are allowed during the 24-hour fast. Caloric beverages such as energy drinks and shakes are also not allowed. Individuals doing the eat-stop-eat IF are recommended to reach their daily caloric goals on their feeding days. Additional restriction on non-fasting days can increase the chances of failure and lead to binge eating. 

The Effect of Intermittent Fasting On IBS

Intermittent fasting has many known benefits. For people who want to lose weight, IF offers an opportunity to cut down on calories and control one’s relationship with food. But its real health benefits hailed by science go beyond cutting down extra weight.

By altering feeding and fasting cycles, the body is able to “take a break” from digesting food. The modern human consumes a significant amount of preservatives from everyday foods. But even without these preservatives, sugars, oils, and salts in the system, the mere quantity of food being digested today is usually enough to upset the stomach, which is especially true for people with IBS. 

IF allows the body to restart certain metabolic processes that promote better overall health. Studies show that intermittent fasting can decrease inflammatory responses and reduce stress, both of which are crucial in managing gastrointestinal syndromes, specifically IBS.

How Intermittent Fasting Can Help With IBS

For the majority of IBS patients, food consumption often triggers symptoms. Diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain can occur immediately after eating. Intermittent fasting can help manage symptoms by limiting gut responses to specific meal times. 

Read more: What Makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome Worse?

This means that patients no longer have to endure discomfort throughout the day. Instead of feeling abdominal pain 24/7, patients who undergo intermittent fasting have better control over their symptoms, and can easily make adjustments in order to prevent any episodes. 

More importantly, IF allows the gut to relax and repair itself by establishing periods of non-consumption. Instead of introducing new foods every 3 hours or so, the gastrointestinal system doesn’t have to work on digesting foods, which for many patients is enough to trigger abdominal pain and distension. 

With no food to process, the gastrointestinal system doesn’t produce any uncomfortable responses. When done right, intermittent fasting can put an end to urgent bowel movements, constipation, and bloating. 

Patient Success With Intermittent Fasting

Although more research is needed to make intermittent fasting a definitive solution to managing IBS symptoms, anecdotal evidence shows that IF can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. 

Patients report a “lighter” experience due to the eating restrictions necessary to perform intermittent fasting. Patients feel less bloated and less prone to urgent bowel movements. For patients whose sleep is disturbed by untimely bowel movements, IBS has been proven to regulate their toilet visits as long as a strict eating window is followed. 

One patient affirms that intermittent fasting has helped regulate his bowel movements. With a slow digestive system, food takes a lot longer to process and is often expelled at irregular times. Even then, as is the case with majority of IBS cases, the bowel movement doesn’t relieve the feeling of having to go to the toilet. 

But with intermittent fasting, patients have reported a significant improvement in abdominal pain, distension, irregular bowel movements, and stool consistency. 

Benefits of IF for IBS: The Science Behind a Clean Gut

The feeling of being “lighter” and “cleaner” after adopting intermittent fasting isn’t just a placebo effect. IF activates certain mechanisms that are difficult to maintain with constant eating. Periods of fasting or “emptiness” allow the gastrointestinal system to resume maintenance procedures that normally wouldn’t be triggered during digestion.

The Role of Bacteria in IBS

Changes in gut bacteria can interfere with normal intestinal functions, affecting intestinal motility (or the movement of the intestinal muscles) as well as mucus secretion that protects the intestinal lining. 

Bacterial composition changes depending on a person’s age, environment, eating habits, and drug use. However, bacterial cultures in IBS patients are different from healthy individuals, in that beneficial bacteria are lower in individuals with IBS. 

In order to control the symptoms, it’s important to promote bacterial balance in the gut in order to restore normal digestive functions. 

What Is the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC)

The migrating motor complex is a series of processes in the gastrointestinal system. Although what triggers the MMC is still unclear, scientists have observed that this kicks in about three hours after the last meal. 

The MMC’s primary role in the digestive process is to clean out any undigested residual material. Extra bile secretions are also observed during the MMC, which plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy habitat for beneficial bacterial culture. Bile is also known to manage systemic inflammation, which is useful to patients trying to regulate their IBS symptoms. 

Here’s a general rundown of what happens when the MMC is activated:

• Smooth muscle contractions happen and during which stomach acid is secreted
• This stomach acid will sweep away undigested food particles and bacteria left over in the stomach
• Muscle contractions will aid in moving particles along into the pylorus, a “valve” that separates the stomach and the small intestine
• Stomach contents move through the small intestine
• Pancreas and gallbladder enzymes are released to neutralize stomach acid 
• The small intestine moves the enzymes and stomach contents towards the colon
• As bile moves through the gastrointestinal system, it starts killing off residual bacteria, preventing any from attaching to the gut wall
• Bile is redirected into the gallbladder and reabsorbed. During which, antimicrobials are released again to eliminate any remaining bacteria
• Bacteria and other stomach contents move to the colon and stays there until the next MMC or until food is consumed

The MMC occurs every 1.5 to 2 hours as long as no food is present. Once food is reintroduced into the system, the MMC stops completely. Instead of “maintenance”, food in the stomach signals your body to redivert its energy to digesting food instead.

Is it bad to interrupt the MMC? Yes. Continuous interruptions of the MMC can lead to bacterial build up in the small intestine. Healthier individuals are equipped with the system to fight off any effects of bacterial build-up. However, IBS patients, due to an increased sensitivity, will only suffer the effects of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. 

Increasing Good Bacteria: Firmicutes and IBS

IBS patients are no strangers to the world of antibiotics. Prescriptions are taken regularly, often after every meal, to control bacterial growth in the gut. However, some studies suggest that beneficial bacteria can be cultivated in the gut just through intermittent fasting alone. 

Animal studies and a number of human intervention runs have shown that intermittent fasting can encourage the regrowth of good bacteria and aid in fighting off bacterial attacks. A study involving Salmonella-infected mice reported that an alternate day fasting for 12 weeks resulted in better immune responses and increased mucus production that protected the intestinal lining.

The same is also applicable to human hosts.  A study found out that an increase in the bacteria Firmicutes is observed after intermittent fasting. Firmicute bacteria are associated with reduced inflammation in the gut. 

When Is Intermittent Fasting Not Beneficial For IBS?

Just like a low FODMAP diet, success with intermittent fasting isn’t guaranteed. Depending on your type of IBS, your stomach might respond negatively to a lack of food. 

Intermittent fasting may not be useful for patients whose symptoms occur as a response to an empty stomach. Patients who experience acid reflux and abdominal pain due to an empty stomach are not good candidates for intermittent fasting.

As with any new technique for managing symptoms, we suggest easing into this new process. Instead of fasting for 24 hours or even 16 hours, we recommend doing shorter fast times in order to evaluate whether or not your stomach is against fasting. 

In order to preserve the benefits of intermittent fasting, make sure you don’t overeat during your feeding time. Consuming excess calories during your feeding time is only going to make your fasting attempt irrelevant. Stick to a healthy calorie limit and eat foods that won’t aggravate your symptoms. 

Read more: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms and Causes

Managing IBS With Gastro Center in New Jersey 

IBS is a long-term battle that requires patience, understanding, and proactive medical help. At Gastro Center NJ, our goal is to find the right lifestyle modifications to improve your quality of life.

Book a consultation with us today to learn more about the different techniques used to manage IBS symptoms, and how intermittent fasting can benefit you. 

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5 Exercises to Avoid If You Suffer from IBS and What Are Your Alternatives

Exercise might be the last thing on your mind as an IBS patient, but science proves that becoming more active might just be what you need to manage IBS symptoms. However, some exercises are known to worsen symptoms instead of improving them.

So, what exercises should you avoid when you have IBS? The rule of thumb is to avoid anything that involves intense movements and rapid bouncing. These include Crossfit, running, ball sports, HIIT circuits, and boxing and martial arts.

Despite these restrictions, there are other exercises available to IBS patients that will strengthen the body without negatively affecting your gastrointestinal system.

IBS and Exercise

How Can Exercise Affect IBS? 

IBS patients experience episodes of diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These symptoms come and go depending on one’s lifestyle choices. Maintaining a nutritious, IBS-friendly diet and adopting healthy eating habits are the most important factors in managing IBS symptoms.

Learn more: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms and Causes

The relationship between IBS and exercise isn’t so straightforward. On the one hand, exercise has been proven to improve patient symptoms. Engaging in 30 to 40 minutes of exercise daily for at least 3 months is proven to be useful in managing pain and regulating bowel movements.

Meanwhile, too much exercise could also exacerbate IBS symptoms. The risk of gut damage increases with exercise duration and intensity, making the gut more vulnerable to pathogenic attacks. Abnormal mucus discharge can occur in the gastrointestinal system, which can lead to bacterial cultivation. Over-exercising can lead to an unstable gut, and as a result, worsen pre-existing IBS symptoms.

Can IBS Patients Still Exercise? 

Yes, provided that the exercise is low to moderate in intensity. In fact, exercise can prove beneficial to IBS patients as long as they choose activities that won’t aggravate the gut. However, not all exercises are created equally so it’s important to be mindful of how certain movements affect your symptoms. 

We recommend taking an exercise log to help you identify which exercises are worsening your IBS symptoms. Certain alterations to stressful movements can also be done in order to reap the full benefits of a specific exercise, without having to worry about suffering through exercise-induced consequences. 

Incorporating Exercise In a Patient’s Routine

As a patient experiencing diarrhea or constipation, exercising might be the last thing on your list. But studies have shown that incorporating an exercise routine, even something as simple as reaching a 10,000 step count every day, is important in managing your overall health. 

Milder exercises can also pave the way to more advanced exercises. If you aren’t keen on doing yoga or pilates, you can start off with some basic stretching in the morning coupled with light walking. Eventually, your body will get used to the amount of physical activity and you’ll be able to do advanced exercises without any problems. 

Get in touch with a trainer or fitness instructor who is informed with gastrointestinal problems. Together you can create a fitness routine that will be beneficial for your health while ensuring that your gastrointestinal system won’t be irritated. 

IBS and Weight Gain

Another reason to adopt an exercise routine is to prevent weight gain. Although uncommon, IBS patients may gain excess weight due to hormonal changes and dietary restrictions. With a proper exercise regimen, IBS patients can stay in shape without worsening symptoms. 

Read more: Can IBS Cause Weight Gain and What Can You Do About It

Top Exercises to Avoid, and What to Do Instead

Not all exercises are beneficial to the body, especially for people who are trying to get their IBS symptoms under control. Below are the top 5 exercises to be avoided if you are suffering from IBS symptoms:

1. Running

Running is the go-to exercise for enhancing cardiovascular strength. It’s also a great way to tone your legs and speed up the fat loss process. However, running might not be the best option for IBS patients.

Even with multiple health benefits, running usually leads to abdominal cramping, which may trigger diarrhea and worsen abdominal pain. Jogging might produce a similar effect due to the bouncing motion involving the torso. 

Alternative: Instead of running, consider something a little more low impact like brisk walking. This exercise is gentle on the knees and won’t require a rapid bouncing motion that may upset the stomach. 10,000 steps daily is the recommended step count for a healthier lifestyle. 

For a more challenging session, try walking up and down the stairs or an inclined plane in order to increase your heart rate. 

2. Sports Involving Balls

Sports are another fantastic way to get exercise, but unfortunately for IBS patients, the quick rapid movements and roughness that sometimes come from ball sports may prove too irritating for the stomach. 

Ball sports specifically basketball, volleyball, football (both American and European), and tennis require full body movements that could trigger muscle spasms in the abdomen. This could translate to an irritated stomach for IBS patients. 

Alternative: Ball sports are beneficial to the body because they combine strength training with cardiovascular exercise. Biking is a low intensity exercise that provides both benefits. It’s a good alternative to running and ball sports because it engages the full body and allows cardiovascular training, without putting stress on the gut. 

While biking on its own can already be a challenging exercise, you can raise the intensity by going up an inclined path. Just make sure you track your heart rate so you don’t overexert yourself. 

3. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

HIIT workouts usually come in the form of 5-10 exercises done in 60-second intervals. The idea behind HIIT is to push your body for at least 60 seconds before resting for a 30-second period. Naturally, this kind of exercise can make your gut suffer, leading to diarrhea and abdominal pain. 

Alternative: Low-intensity alternatives such as yoga and pilates are a great way to engage the muscles, minus the intensity of HIIT. However, beware of poses and moves that require tilting since this might irritate the stomach. You can always talk to your instructor for movement modifications that are safe to IBS patients. 

4. Crossfit and Intense Weight Training

Like HIIT, Crossfit requires powerful, sudden bursts of movement that engages the full body. It’s common for Crossfit athletes to perform 4-8 repetitions of heavy-weight, high-power exercise in order to reap the full benefits of a movement. 

Similarly, unmodified weight training sessions, especially compound lifts such as squatting and deadlifting, require motions that exert pressure on the abdominal area. Aside from the movement, the intensity alone can prove too stressful to the body and lead to exercise-induced IBS. 

Alternative: IBS patients don’t have to steer clear of weight training altogether. But instead of compound lifts, focus on lower weight and high repetition movements in order to build muscle. 

Replace exercises involving bars and barbells for dumbbells and machines. This way, you take much of the load off from your own body, allowing you to focus your strength on individual muscle groups instead of relying on full and total body strength. 

5. Boxing and Martial Arts

Boxing and martial arts involve agile movements and muscle endurance. These sports usually involve sparring with someone, typically a trainer, or sometimes another student in the same class. Needless to say, both activities, like HIIT, are too intense for patients with IBS. 

Alternative: Instead of high-intensity sports like boxing and martial arts, we suggest switching to physical activities that can still engage full body movement, without the level of intensity usually associated with ball sports. 

Swimming is one of the best exercises for IBS patients, precisely because it engages both the upper body, back, and lower body muscles, without aggravating the gut. Swimming is also a fantastic exercise for your cardiovascular system, meaning you get a full workout just by doing 10-20 laps. 

Improving Your Lifestyle, One Step At a Time

We at Gastro Center in New Jersey are committed in helping you create big changes to your health with even the smallest lifestyle adjustments. With the right fitness program and a suitable nutritional plan, you can manage your IBS symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.

Get in touch with us today to book a consultation. 

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Can IBS Cause Weight Gain and What Can You Do About It

Patients with gastrointestinal problems often experience unprecedented weight change as a side-effect of their disorder. Weight gain or loss can occur depending on a handful of factors.

For example, patients with IBS experiencing constipation and abdominal pain may keep themselves from eating in order to alleviate symptoms. On the other hand, patients with GERD may find themselves eating constantly in order to suppress acid flare-ups. 

So can IBS patients experience weight gain? Yes. This could be due to a host of factors involving hormonal activity, diet, and lack of exercise. The good news is that weight gain from IBS is easily manageable with lifestyle changes. 

How IBS Causes Weight Gain 

Weight change from IBS is likelier to result in weight loss. For irritable bowel syndrome patients, this could be caused by the inefficient nutrient absorption from food and urgent bowel movements that can come right after eating. The discomfort may be associated with food, which could prevent patients from eating.

Read more: Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms and Causes

While uncommon, IBS patients can also experience weight gain which involves a few factors. These include:

1. Hormonal Activity

One study suggests that weight gain from IBS is due to the hormones residing in the gut, specifically those that control appetite. Researchers found that hormones related to appetite are abnormal in IBS patients. Increased food intake and an insatiable appetite could be the result of fluctuating gut hormones. 

2. Obesity and IBS

Some scientists believe that existing weight problems may contribute to the development of IBS. However, further studies are required in order to properly establish a link between obesity and IBS. Meanwhile, another study pointed out that IBS symptoms are aggravated in obese patients because of the problems in satiation signals in IBS patients. 

3. Improper Diet

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome have more limited food options than healthy people. Dietary restrictions can lead to nutritional imbalance and overeating. Some patients could be consuming more rice, mashed potatoes, and starchy foods more than other food groups in order to alleviate certain symptoms.

Even certain fruits and vegetables are considered food triggers for IBS patients, which can make meal preparation more challenging. As a result, patients can stick to eating certain foods which could be calorie dense, resulting in weight gain. 

4. Complications With Physical Activity

HIIT (high-intensity interval training) is one of the best ways to lose weight. Unfortunately, it is also one of the easiest ways to trigger IBS symptoms. Exercises that involve running and jumping can also trigger gastrointestinal stress. Patients may find themselves reluctant to hop on a treadmill in fear of setting off symptoms. 

Weight Gain VS Bloating

Bloating is a common symptom of IBS and could be interpreted as weight gain. While the actual cause of bloating is still unknown, excessive gas does not actually cause bloating.

Other causes could be impaired motility (intestinal muscle contractions that move food and other contents through the walls), bacterial growth in the small intestine, and sensitive abdominal walls to name a few.

It’s fairly easy to differentiate bloating from weight gain: bloating often lasts for 1-5 days and is centered on the stomach, while weight gain is apparent in all areas of the body and usually does not recede on its own. 

Bloating also has the following characteristics:

• Commonly described as increased abdominal pressure
• Often gets worse immediately after meals
• Stomach can start flat out in the day and get bloated at night
• Usually subsides overnight 

It is one of the more manageable symptoms of IBS. Below are some tips for dealing with bloating: 

• Eat slower: For some people, bloating is only perceived and can’t be physically observed. To reduce the feeling of pressure around the abdomen, we recommend eating smaller meals to prevent discomfort. 
• Take digestive supplements: Over-the-counter digestive enzyme supplements are available to help people absorb indigestible carbohydrates. For example, the intestine is not equipped with enzymes to digest a string of enzymes called FODMAPs, which could require people with sensitive intestines to get supplementary aid. 
• Watch your diet: Foods high in sugar and salt can lead to water retention and result in distention, or the physical increase in abdomen size. Drinking a lot of water to dilute the sugar and salt content is useful in flushing out the excess. 

How to Lose Weight With IBS

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome don’t have to carry the extra weight forever. There are ways to slough off weight from IBS by doing the following: 

1. Seek Medical Advice

It’s difficult to manage weight gain without seeking help from a gastroenterologist. Weight changes related to gastrointestinal problems could be caused by problems not easily resolved by calorie counting. Medical professionals can run tests and identify what exactly is causing weight gain. 

If it’s hormonal imbalance, your doctor may prescribe supplements to keep your hormones stable. If it’s bacterial growth, your patient can recommend antibiotics to fight off infections. Knowing what’s causing your weight gain is the first step to losing it. 

2. Plan Healthy Meals

As an IBS patient, you should strive for a nutritional plan that does not only alleviate your symptoms but is also highly nutritional. It’s challenging to find foods that don’t trigger symptoms while simultaneously preventing weight gain. 

We suggest getting in touch with a licensed nutritionist who is informed with gastrointestinal problems. Together, you can plan healthy meal plans that are nutritious and well-balanced, while ensuring your symptoms are kept under control.

3. Find Alternative Exercise

Although HIIT and most cardiovascular exercises are out of the question, there are other activities that can be done which are safe for IBS patients. Instead of running, you can swim thrice a week to build up cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength. Yoga and pilates are also great ways to engage the body without upsetting the gastrointestinal tract. 

In reality, IBS patients don’t have to avoid HIIT and muscle training altogether. It’s possible to create versions of the exercise that are easier on the body. Instead of doing compound weightlifting exercises such as squatting and deadlifting, IBS patients can focus on higher repetitions with lower weights instead of shocking the body with powerful movements. 

4. Watch Your Eating Habits

Discomfort from diarrhea and constipation can shape the way we eat. For instance, in order to prevent frequent bowel movements, patients may eat two big meals and not eat for the rest of the day. Patients could also decide to skip meals altogether because of abdominal pain, which could eventually result in overeating. 

Knowing how symptoms shape eating habits is key in managing weight for IBS, as well as other gastrointestinal disorders. 

Read more: What Makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome Worse? 

FODMAP Diet and Other Food Recommendations

Food is a known trigger of IBS. This makes it difficult for IBS patients to find suitable meal choices while maintaining their weight. The problem is that some foods which contribute to weight loss can lead to symptom flare-up. These foods include:

• Legumes: Beans are a great source of protein and fiber, but could prove problematic for IBS patients. Beans can lead to an increase in stool bulk, leading to worse episodes of constipation. 
• Dairy: Foods high in fat including dairy are typically not recommended for IBS patients. It’s because dairy products such as milk and most types of cheese contain lactase. This enzyme may be lacking in IBS patients, leading to indigestion and diarrhea. 
• Gluten: Wheat and rye are often recommended to people hoping to lose weight because these components are hard to digest, which can keep a person full longer. On the other hand, IBS patients can be more sensitive to gluten compared to healthy individuals, leading to abdominal cramps and discomfort. 

Although these foods tend to produce negative effects in general IBS cases, not all individuals will respond the same way. Before banning certain foods from your diet, we recommend keeping a food diary so you can keep track of the effects foods have on your gastrointestinal system. 

What Is FODMAP?

IBS patients tend to share the same sensitivity to gluten as people with coeliac disease. What was once thought of as a non-coeliac gluten sensitivity turned out to be an intolerance for a specific chain of carbohydrates called FODMAPS. 

FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. These components are found in foods in the form of fructose and lactose, to name two, and can be found in both organic and synthetic foods. 

Nutritionists believe that adopting a low FODMAP diet is the key to a better lifestyle for IBS patients. By lowering FODMAP intake, patients reduce the risk of bacteria fermentation in the large intestine, which can significantly improve bouts of gassiness and constipation. 

How Long Should Patients Eat Low-FODMAP Foods

If low FODMAP foods are useful in managing symptoms, then how come nutritionists don’t recommend going on a low FODMAP diet forever? 

This is because high FODMAP foods can also be instrumental in managing IBS. Those included in the high FODMAP list such as garlic, for example, have strong antibacterial properties that could keep infections away. 

More importantly, not all high FODMAP foods produce adverse reactions in patients. It doesn’t make sense to completely eliminate high FODMAP foods in your diet, especially since some of these have high nutritional content. 

Recommended Diet For IBS Weight Loss 

We recommend starting out with a low FODMAP diet. After 2-3 weeks, start reintroducing high FODMAP foods in your diet in order to understand how each food affects your body, if at all. 

The following are low in calories and also considered low FODMAP foods:

Protein 

Chicken, beef, lamb, pork, turkey, fish. We recommend sticking with chicken and fish since they have the lowest calories per serving size.

Fruits and Vegetables

Zucchini, potato, cucumber, eggplant, green beans, lettuce, bean sprouts, carrots, blueberries, orange, passion fruit, pineapple, rhubarb, strawberry, grapes, lemon and lime, guava. 

Other fruits and vegetables have to be consumed in limited servings to remain low FODMAP. These are: broccoli (up to ½ cup), corn (half a cob only), tomato (up to 4 small pieces only), cranberry (1 tbsp). 

Grains 

Look for gluten-free and wheat-free alternatives. Breads such as corn bread and oat bread are also good alternatives. Brown rice and white rice are generally acceptable. Oats are also considered a great source of fiber, while keeping your diet low in calories.

Tools like MyFitnessPal and CalorieKing are useful in keeping track of your calorie count. You can choose to build your daily meals around certain calorie counts. The 1,500 – 2,000 range is sufficient for most average-size adults. Ask a nutritionist for more in-depth advice on a healthy caloric range. 

Exercises For IBS Weight Loss

Doesn’t Exercise Stimulate Symptoms?

Yes, exercise can stimulate the gastrointestinal system and produce reactions. But this doesn’t mean that all forms of exercise are bad for IBS patients. In fact, research shows that regular exercise can help with IBS symptoms. Even 20 to 30 minutes of exercise three times a week is already useful in improving a person’s quality of life. 

Low-intensity exercises such as swimming, yoga, and pilates are perfect for burning fat without stressing out the gastrointestinal system. Just like food, it’s important to test out which physical activities result in aggravated symptoms so you don’t end up eliminating all of them. 

What Exercises to Avoid

Below are the top three exercises to avoid when you have IBS:

1. HIIT: HIIT workouts are purposefully intense to keep your heart rate up. Unfortunately, your digestive system might interpret this as stress and trigger IBS symptoms. It’s still possible to do an interval training circuit without the jumping and running. Eliminate exercises that require quick bursts of movements and stick to those that are easy on the body. 
2. Weight Training: Swimming isn’t the only form of exercise available to you. If you want to keep training your muscles, you can use lighter weights instead of heavy weights and machines instead of freehand weights. The point is to reduce the stress on your body 
3. Running: Running and even jogging can irritate your stomach and affect your gastrointestinal system. Consider brisk walking or taking a route that has an incline so you can still work up a sweat. 

Manage Your IBS Gain Weight

Just because you have IBS doesn’t mean you have to deal with the extra weight. At Gastro Center in New Jersey, we find ways to improve your lifestyle as a person with IBS.

With our proactive methods, we can create a diet and exercise plan that fits your needs. Get in touch with us today. 

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Can You Join the Military With Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome can be an intrusive disorder affecting a person’s quality of life. Onsets of diarrhea and constipation are to be expected on a regular, if not daily, basis. Unrestricted dietary choices, physical exertion, and psychological stress are all known triggers for IBS. 

Consequently, these conditions are also what define military training. Interested individuals with IBS may find themselves unable to participate in military recruitment. However, IBS patients are still eligible for enlistment provided that they prove themselves healthy enough for training and deployment. 

So, is it possible to join the military even if you have irritable bowel syndrome? Yes, but prospects are suggested to undergo long-term therapy before enlisting for military service. 

Understanding IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder affecting up to 20% of people in the U.S. IBS is characterized by potentially disruptive symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. 

Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition that has no known cure. Symptoms can be triggered and flare up any time. This might be a deterrent to individuals who are thinking of pursuing a career in military service. On the other hand, there are treatments available that can help with symptom management.

Quick IBS Facts

• Estimates suggest that there are up to 45 million IBS patients in the U.S. alone. Women are at a higher risk of developing IBS than men. Some studies suggest that estrogen production may influence IBS development.
• Links between psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety VS IBS have been proven, which illustrates that patients with IBS live a lower quality of life. Stress is not the primary cause of IBS, but studies do suggest that individuals suffering from psychological disorders are more predisposed to IBS.
• Although the direct cause of IBS is still unknown, research points to various factors such as the alteration of bacterial environment in the gut, brain-gut miscommunication, and muscle contractions as physiological factors for IBS development. 
• IBS is considered a “functional disorder” that is typically diagnosed through elimination. IBS does not produce physical alterations (unlike ulcer and IBD) and is only identifiable through a specific diagnosis category referred to as the Rome Criteria.
• Adults 50 years old and above are at a higher risk of contracting IBS than other people.
• Although there is no known cure for IBS, patients can undergo medical, dietary, and even psychological intervention to help deal with symptoms. Symptoms are easily manageable with the right attitude towards diet and exercise
• IBD is not the same as IBS. IBD is used to describe inflammations on the digestive tract, whereas IBS is characterized by an overactive gastrointestinal system that is not caused by inflammation.
• IBS can’t evolve into a serious condition. IBS does not lead to Crohn’s disease, colon cancer, ulcer, or any other gastrointestinal disorder.

Types of IBS

IBS symptoms are sporadic and can vary depending on the most prominent symptoms specific to a patient’s case. Understanding one’s type of IBS makes it easier to manage the disorder and prepare for military training. 

1. IBS-C: Type of IBS with constipation as the most predominant symptom. Patients experience frequent bloating and abdominal pain. Bowel movements are delayed and often hard to pass. 
2. IBS-D: Diarrhea is the most predominant symptom for this type of IBS. Patients experience urgent bowel movements that are often watery and loose. 
3. IBS-C and D: Both constipation and diarrhea are present. Symptoms alternate and are triggered depending on various lifestyle choices including food and eating habits, exercise, and medication. 

There are medications available for all types of IBS. For diarrhea-heavy IBS, medicines such as eluxadoline and alosetron may be prescribed by doctors to help you manage diarrhea. Abdominal pain is a common side-effect. 

Patients with constipation-dominant IBS can also get medication such as linaclotide and lubiprostone. Both are used to increase fluid uptake in the colon and encourage bowel movement. 

While medications are a crucial part of symptom management, we recommend lifestyle adjustments for long-term benefits. Patients who adopt dietary changes report significant improvements in their symptoms, even without the help of pain relief medicine. 

Medical Requirements For Joining The Military

The U.S. Department of Defense laid out various criteria for military eligibility. Medical conditions are listed to help trainees identify whether or not they are qualified for military service. Among automatic disqualifiers are excessive body fat and body mass index, marijuana use, current mental health problems, and injuries to the lower extremities. 

Below are gastrointestinal conditions that may prevent interested individuals from joining the military: 

• Diagnosed ulcer of the duodenum or stomach as confirmed by an x-ray or endoscopy 
• Inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and ulcerative proctitis
• Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) also known as chronic acid reflux 
• Lactase deficiency, but only if this is proven to interfere with everyday function
• Persistent chronic constipation and/or diarrhea for the past 2 years
• Acute or chronic hepatitis that is predicted to stay active in six months
• Apparent liver failure in anyway
• History of cirrhosis, abscess, and cysts from hepatitis
• Abdominal hernia
• Large hemorrhoids with active bleeding
• Any history of anal fissure or fecal incontinence for the past 2 years

IBS and Military Eligibility 

Under section 5.12 Abdominal organs and gastrointestinal system, under small and large intestine, point 9, the document addresses IBS eligibility with the following criteria: 

“History of irritable bowel syndrome of sufficient severity to require frequent intervention or prescription medication or that may reasonably be expected to interfere with military duty”

Are IBS Patients Allowed to Enlist?

Yes, individuals with IBS are eligible for military service provided that they have their symptoms under control. The criteria states that IBS cases of sufficient severity are grounds for disqualification. 

Patients who have had long-term interventions and haven’t experienced adverse, urgent symptoms for at least 6 months have a high chance of being qualified in military service.

Are There IBS Patients In the Military?

Yes, there are people with IBS serving in the military. Note that these individuals have passed the criteria by proving that they are able to undergo rigorous training without the help of medical intervention. This is made possible through proper diet, exercise, and a long-term plan that has allowed their bowels to resemble normal functions even without constant medication. 

How Can IBS Disqualify You From the Military?

Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic disease that can be demanding at times. Without proper planning, symptoms can flare-up and affect everyday living. Military training will be strenuous both psychologically and physically — both of which are known triggers for IBS. 

Symptom flare-ups will interfere with training and could be grounds for dismissal. Before applying to the military, it’s crucial to take necessary precautions to ensure that you maximize your chances at entering military service. 

Joining the Military with IBS

Talk to a Recruiter

Your local recruiter may have more information regarding the specifics of joining the military with IBS. A history of IBS diagnosis and treatment will be necessary to inform the recruiter regarding your case. Treatment options, methods, and evidence of success are key in ensuring you pass the interview and are allowed to train for the service. 

Know Your Triggers

The first step to overcoming IBS symptoms is knowing your triggers. The top triggers for IBS include: 

• Food and Dietary Habits: Foods high in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAP) are known to cause flare-ups. A low-FODMAP diet that doesn’t involve dairy, synthetic sweeteners, legumes, and wheat, to name a few, are key in managing symptoms, especially diarrhea. Adopting new eating habits such as eating more times in a day in smaller quantities can help take the stress off your digestive system. 
• Stress: Undergoing a stress therapy session can provide improvements to symptoms in as little as four months. Learning everyday stress relief techniques can help you from triggering IBS symptoms during the training period. 
• Physical Exertion: Patients experiencing aggravated symptoms from physical exertion are often linked to unmanaged stress and dietary triggers. The evidence of IBS patients in military service show that it’s possible to undergo strenuous training provided that other factors for symptom flare-ups have been taken care of. 
• Medication: Various medications, both OTC and prescription drugs, are available to help with pain and symptom management. We suggest talking to a gastroenterologist for specialized medicine. 

Keep in mind that prescription medication will not be allowed during military training so it’s essential that you learn how to manage your symptoms even without medication. 

Follow a Program

A study shows how aspiring military servants with IBS can still make for great candidates with the help of lifestyle modification. This research includes 89 participants who were diagnosed with IBS on their first screening. Scientists found that 63% of the group reported improved symptoms after military training. 

The participants were banned from alcohol and nicotine consumption. Regular exercises such as jogging and muscle training were included in their daily routine. Other military trainings such as marching and shooting were also included. All participants followed regular hours. 

Scientists found symptom improvement in the following areas: 

• Improvement in bowel habits (62.9% of participants)
• Improved pain score for abdominal discomfort
• More participants reported normal stool consistency 
• Stool frequency and urgency were reduced

This study illustrates that military training can even improve IBS symptoms provided that a person’s case of IBS is not severe.

Following long-term lifestyle changes are necessary in managing IBS symptoms. Without these modifications, IBS patients have a lower chance of enlisting in the military and serving their country due to unprecedented flare-ups. 

Learn How to Manage Your IBS

At Gastro Center NJ, we can help you enlist in the military by creating a long-term plan for controlling your IBS symptoms. We believe that chronic diseases, no matter how seemingly disruptive, can be monitored, controlled, and eventually resolved with the right treatment plan. 

Get in touch with us today. 

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What Makes Irritable Bowel Syndrome Worse?

Irritable bowel disorder (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal abnormality affecting up to 20% of the U.S. population. Patients experience sporadic episodes of bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These symptoms come and go depending on a patient’s lifestyle choices.

So what makes irritable bowel syndrome worse? Certain foods such as those high in FODMAP are known to induce IBS symptoms. Other key variables such as stress, lack of exercise, and even hormonal imbalances can trigger symptoms.

Below are the top triggers for IBS, and understanding how to manage them:

Food and Diet

How Can Food Trigger IBS?

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome have a difficult time processing food compared to unaffected individuals. Food sensitivities from IBS aren’t caused by an allergy or intolerance. Instead certain foods can lead to an increase in the water uptake in the large intestine, creating a micro-environment where bacteria can thrive. 

Dietary changes are administered to IBS patients to help soothe cell abnormalities in the gastrointestinal region, while ensuring that the gut is favorable for beneficial bacteria growth. 

FODMAPs and Other IBS Food Triggers

What people thought of as non-coeliac gluten sensitivity in IBS patients turned out to be an adverse reaction to a specific group of short-chain carbohydrates. Researchers from Monash University were able to identify the source of bloating, gas, and diarrhea triggered by certain foods. 

The scientists discovered a group of carbohydrates that were poorly digested or impossible to absorb in the small intestine, leading to IBS symptoms. When foods containing FODMAPs enter the system, the gut bacteria ferments these carbohydrates, resulting in excessive gas production which can also trigger the other IBS symptoms.  

This group of carbohydrates are now known as FODMAPs: fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. The FODMAP components in food are:

1. Fructose: Found primarily in high-fructose foods such as some fruits (apples, watermelons, grapes), honey, and corn syrup. The intestine is able to manage fructose absorption when accommodated by glucose. However, some patients have a hard time breaking down fructose altogether, which triggers IBS flare-ups. 

2. Lactose: Found primarily in dairy products like milk and cheese. Lactase enzymes responsible for breaking down lactose are lacking in some individuals, resulting in diarrhea and distension. 

3 Polyols: Found primarily in synthetic sweeteners and are naturally occurring in certain fruits and vegetables. Common in sugar-free food options and processed foods such as jams and marmalade. Most common forms are erythritol, sorbitol, and mannitol — all of which can be found in most processed food. 

4. Oligosaccharides: Found primarily in legumes, wheat, and rye. The human body does not contain enzymes to properly digest oligosaccharides; even individuals without IBS have a hard time absorbing this chain of carbohydrates. Consumption of foods high in oligosaccharides result in bacterial fermentation, which leads to gassiness. 

Although a low FODMAP diet has been proven to help with IBS symptoms, not every IBS patient will have the same response to high FODMAP foods. We recommend getting help from your dietitian and gastroenterologist before banning foods from your diet. 

Diet Modifications For IBS Patients

IBS patients can still enjoy certain food groups while avoiding trigger foods. For example, those who enjoy their every day milk can still enjoy milk in the form of soy milk or by choosing lactose-free alternatives. Choose cheeses with lower lactose levels such as mozzarella and brie. 

There are various fruits and vegetables on the low FODMAP list. These include: 

• Bananas
• Oranges
• Pineapple
• Rhubarb
• Lemon and lime
• Olives
• Arugula
• Bok choy
• Kale
• Lettuce
• Baby spinach
• Zucchini

In place of wheat and rye, patients can look for gluten-free fiber options such as oats, quinoa, and brown rice. For protein sources, beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and fish are all acceptable options as long as these aren’t cooked and served with high levels of saturated fat. 

Drugs and Medication

How Drugs Worsen Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The aggravation of gastrointestinal symptoms after medication abuse isn’t a coincidence. Studies show that gastrointestinal complications can be medication-induced because of how long-term drug usage affects the gastrointestinal physiology. 

For instance, dependence on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are known to produce toxic ulcers to the intestinal lining, dealing irreversible damage to the system. Improper use of antibiotics can lead to a disruption in the gut bacterial flora, which can make the intestine susceptible to a bacterial infection.

A study even suggests that excipients, the “skin” containing the drug in capsule or tablet form can even aggravate IBS symptoms. Variable amounts of lactose can be found in oral medications, which may trigger IBS symptoms. The artificial sweetener sorbitol, which has been identified as a FODMAP, is a key ingredient in liquid oral medication as a sweetener. When ingested, large amounts of these can cause diarrhea, bloating, and constipation. 

Approved Medication for IBS Patients

Not all medication can worsen IBS. There are drugs available for diarrhea, constipation, and general pain relief. These drugs include:

1. Eluxadoline (Viberzi): Best for patients with IBS-D. Reduces muscle contractions and fluid uptake in the intestine, which helps with diarrhea. Possible side-effects include mild constipation and abdominal pain. 

2. Alosetron (Lotronex): Also ideal for patients with IBS-D. This drug is prescription-only, and is used for severe cases of diarrhea. Alosetron slows the movement of waste through the bowel, which helps with diarrhea. 

3. Rifaximin (Xifaxan): Ideal for all patients with IBS. Used to discourage bacterial infestations, while also alleviating diarrhea symptoms. 

4. Linaclotide (Linzess): Ideal for patients with IBS-C. This drug increases fluid uptake in the small intestine. Sometimes used to induce bowel movement. 

5. Lubiprostone (Amitiza): Also applicable to patients with IBS-C. Generally prescribed for women patients who exhibit severe symptoms and are not responsive to other treatments. Functions the same way as linaclotide by increasing fluid uptake in the small intestine.

A new drug called Blautix is currently undergoing clinical trials and has been cleared for further investigation by the U.S. FDA. Preliminary research showed that the drug resulted in an 82% improvement in affected individuals.

The drug is designed to introduce an active bacteria called Blautia hydrogenotraphica in order to remove excess hydrogen in the intestines. Researchers believe that this will reduce bloating and flatulence in IBS sufferers.  

Hormonal Triggers

The Science Behind Hormones and IBS

Hormones are chemical messengers being transported throughout the body. They are released by cells and help regulate various bodily functions. A substantial number of studies suggest that hormones may in fact affect IBS symptoms. 

Two specific intestinal hormones, motilin and cholecystokinin (CCK) are being investigated for  potentially eliciting bowel responses immediately after eating. CCK is responsible for stimulating digestion and releasing bile from the gallbladder, while motilin is responsible for controlling intestinal muscle contraction and transporting food through the intestines. An abnormal rise in the production of these two hormones is believed to result in a more reactive gastrointestinal system.

One research showed that CCK reactivity is heightened after patients were made to eat a meal high in fats. On the other hand, eating a regular meal and drinking water produced a lower motilin response in patients. These studies show that disrupted hormone behavior can elicit urgent bowel movement in patients. 

Another study suggests that there might be a link between motilin reactivity and stress. Scientists found that there was an increase in motilin production in response to stressful stimuli. 

The sex hormones estrogen and progesterone are the most studied hormones in relation to IBS. The gastrointestinal system is built with estrogen and progesterone receptors, so it’s apparent that the intestine can respond to these hormones accordingly. 

As women are twice as much vulnerable to IBS, more research is being funnelled into understanding how individuals with high levels of estrogen are predisposed to IBS and aggravated IBS symptoms.

Menstruation and IBS

Bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movement have been reported by individuals with and without IBS during different phases of the menstrual cycle. 

During the menses period (the first four to seven days of the cycle) abdominal pain and bloating was increased compared to other phases of the cycle. During this phase, women secrete low levels of progesterone, which is believed to be a “pain blocker” hormone. Individuals also observed more frequent bowel habits during the menses period. This is apparent even in women without IBS.

There are other findings that solidify estrogen’s role in the exacerbation of IBS symptoms. Female IBS patients have fewer instances of bloating compared to postmenopausal women. Consequently, postmenopausal IBS patients who were undergoing hormone replacement therapy had decreased incidences of bloating compared to those who didn’t. 

Anxiety and Stress

How Does Stress Affect IBS

The impact of stress on IBS has long been a topic of clinical curiosity. A paper published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology showed that there is a direct link between what the researchers called “an irritable bowel and an irritable brain”. 

The researchers affirmed that IBS is a stress-sensitive disorder. Stress can stimulate the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, which can directly affect gut functions. Psychological stress can gastrointestinal interactions with the nervous system, intestinal bacteria growth, and mucus production. Stress can stimulate the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, which can directly affect gut performance.

Psychological distress among IBS patients and vice-versa is common. There is a strong correlation between psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety with the severity of IBS symptoms. With these fundings, it’s clear that stress management should be a priority of any IBS patient.  

Soothing IBS With Therapy

Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) alone specifically tailored to IBS patients is an effective way of dealing with symptoms. A promising study showed that patients who had undergone a 12-month therapy session, in person or on the phone, showed significant improvements in their symptoms compared to patients who were undergoing medication alone. 

One of the trial patients reported that the study “helped [me] understand how techniques [I] had been using to avoid problem foods or difficult social situations” were aggravating her condition. Ultimately, CBT teaches patients to become more mindful and aware of the mind-gut connection. 

One of the researchers, Dr. Hazel Everritt from the University of Southampton stated that, “The results of this study provide important new evidence of how CBT delivered over the telephone or online can provide an effective treatment for patients living with this chronic and common gastrointestinal disorder.” 

Researchers are now working towards making IBS-specific therapy treatments more openly accessible to patients. 

Everyday Stress-Relieving Techniques

Therapy isn’t the only stress-relief option available to IBS patients. Below are some techniques patients can do on their own free time:

– Keep a diary: It’s important to stay aware of what’s happening between you and your body. Most patients keep a food and symptom log to understand how specific foods trigger certain symptoms. In reality, this can be used for just about any other stimuli. 

Are you likely to suffer from constipation when you feel stressed? What kinds of social situations make it hard for you to relax? Knowing these things can give you a better understanding of IBS, and in turn a much better control over your symptoms. 

– Mindful muscle relaxation: Muscle relaxation involves the intentional movement of various muscles throughout the body. This level of mindfulness can help bring down anxiety and help you calm down during stressful situations. 

Simply close your eyes and feel every part of your body by moving certain muscles. Frown your forehead and visualize every line creasing on your forehead. You can rotate your shoulders and envision your shoulder joints working their way to a full rotation. Whatever muscle you choose to move, the point is to make your brain 100% focused on that particular movement. 

Physical Activity

Does Exercise Help With Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Working out might be the last thing you want to do as an IBS patient, but science shows this can actually be beneficial. A group of patients were asked to do 20 to 30 minutes of exercise three to five times a week. 

After three months, the active group reported better results than the inactive group. Symptoms worsened in 23% of cases in the inactive group, while only 8% of individuals felt worse after 3 months of exercise. 

Exercise is also a good way to reduce stress. To maximize your workout sessions, we recommend doing the following:

• Don’t eat fatty foods before exercising
• Try to schedule your exercises closer to when your intestines are most “quiet”
• Don’t drink caffeinated drinks such as coffee and energy drinks before working out
• If you have hyperactive bowels, eat first thing in the morning 
• Drink lots of water before working out

Top 3 Workouts To Avoid, And What To Do Instead

1. Running: Bouncing up and down may induce cramping in IBS patients. Instead of running, try power walking or swimming. This way, you’re still engaging your cardiovascular system without upsetting your stomach. 

2. Weight Training: This is especially true for compound movements like deadlifts and squats. These movements can prove too intense for the digestive system and induce diarrhea in IBS patients. Stick to lighter weights or do machines that won’t require full exertion from the body.  

3. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT workouts are designed to keep your heart rate consistently active for 30 minutes and more. Your body might translate this as stress, which can trigger IBS symptoms. As an alternative, do variations on HIIT exercises to make sure they are less intense and more forgiving for your body. 

Manage Irritable Bowel Syndrome

At Gastro Center in New Jersey, we have innovative approaches for managing irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Get in touch with us today to learn how we can improve your quality of life with dietary modifications, stress-relief techniques, IBS-specific medication, and more. Together, we’ll find better solutions for your IBS symptoms. 

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms and Causes

Irritable bowel syndrome can be a major inconvenience to affected individuals. Without proper intervention, patients can easily suffer depression, social anxiety, and even fecal incontinence. Diagnosing IBS is the key to managing its symptoms. 

So, how is IBS diagnosed in a patient? Although there are definitive causes for irritable bowel syndrome, specific symptoms are used to properly diagnose this disorder. These include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and changes in the appearance of bowels. 

In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about IBS — from diagnosis, symptoms and causes, to the myths surrounding this syndrome. 

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome? 

Irritable bowel syndrome, also called IBS, is a common syndrome affecting up to 20% of people in the U.S, and occurs more commonly in women than men. A study suggests that women are more susceptible to gastrointestinal problems, including IBS, because the brain signals responsible for digestion are less responsive and more easily disrupted in women. 

IBS describes a host of symptoms that include constipation, diarrhea, change in frequency and consistency of bowel movements, and abdominal pain. Symptoms of IBS are episodic and can go away and resurface indefinitely. Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition that can easily be managed through dietary, medical, and sometimes psychological intervention.

Early detection is crucial to ensure that your condition is treated before it becomes irreversible.  At Gastro Center NJ we perform routine tests and certain procedures, including colonoscopy and upper endoscopy.

Are IBS and Diarrhea the Same?

Some people believe that IBS and diarrhea are interchangeable terms. In reality, IBS is a syndrome that triggers a host of symptoms due to a sensitive colon, which includes diarrhea. Although chronic in nature, IBS is a syndrome that can easily be alleviated with proper dieting and exercise. Symptoms can be soothed with appropriate lifestyle choices.

On the other hand, diarrhea is often acute and occurs as a result of a stomach infection, food intolerance, or medicine overuse. Although there are cases of chronic diarrhea, this alone is not considered a syndrome, and is often linked with a pre-existing condition such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome VS Inflammatory Bowel Disease 

IBS and IBD are completely different conditions. IBS is what is considered as a functional disorder, where the body exhibits symptoms even without any physical problems. Meanwhile, IBD is what is referred to as a structural disease, which means tests are able to reflect visible causes (ulcers, inflammation) for the cause of pain. 

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. The two specific types of IBD are known as Crohn’s disease (inflammation of the digestive tract) and ulcerative colitis (inflammation of the colon lining and rectum with the possible appearance of ulcers).

The Difference Between IBS and IBD

	Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)	Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Symptoms	– Nausea – Gas – Constipation – Belly pain that is relieved with bowel movement – Diarrhea – Mucus secretion, which may also be present in stools	– Nausea – Gas – Constipation – Belly pain – Diarrhea – Change in appetite – Fever accompanied by irregular bowel movements – Black tarry stools, usually accompanied by blood – Inflammation
Treatment	Mainly managed through dietary and lifestyle changes.	Anti-inflammatory drugs to help with inflammation such as corticosteroids and aminosalicylates
Diagnosis	Does not produce visible symptoms.	Leads to the development of ulcers along the stomach and colon lining. Characterized as the inflammation of the intestines.

Can IBS Lead to Colon Cancer? 

Although IBS and colon cancer produce the same symptoms, the two are incredibly different conditions concerning the gastrointestinal system. Similar symptoms include:

• Constipation 
• Frequent and often urgent bowel movements
• Needing to go to the bathroom even after bowel movement 

These symptoms are where the resemblance ends. Colon cancer occurs when growths called polyps grow in the colon lining and attach to nearby organs and lymph nodes. Colon cancer also produces a host of other symptoms that aren’t existent in IBS such as unprecedented weight loss, rectal bleeding, and vomiting. 

Patients suffering from IBS may also experience rectal bleeding that is likely caused by hemorrhoids that have formed due to overexertion. Unlike in colon cancer, the presence of blood in the stool may be caused by a wound near the anus, not high up in the colon from a bleeding polyp.

Read more: Your Blood Can Tell If You Have Colon Cancer

Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder that prevents normal digestive functions. On the other hand, colon cancer is preceded by abnormal rates of polyp growth, which cannot develop from IBS alone. 

Types of IBS

There are three known types of irritable bowel syndrome. These three classifications describe the predominant symptom associated with a patient’s type of IBS. 

1. IBS-C: Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. Patients suffering from IBS-C experience frequent abdominal pain and bloating. Bowel movements are usually delayed, infrequent, and uncomfortable. Stool is often described as lumpy and hard. Drinking more water is a common suggestion for patients experiencing IBS-C.
2. IBS-D: Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea. Patients experiencing IBS-D have frequent bowel movements, often watery in consistency. Abdominal discomfort due to the colon drawing in too much water is also present. Patients with IBS-D have overactive digestive systems that process food too quickly. A diet rich in soluble fiber (oats, legumes, sweet potatoes) are recommended to help manage diarrhea. 
3. IBS-C and D: The predominance of constipation and diarrhea may be present in a patient. In this case, symptoms may overlap or alternate, and can be triggered depending on dietary and lifestyle choices. 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: What Causes It? 

IBS is a condition diagnosed through exclusion, which means other conditions are ruled out before identifying IBS as the source of discomfort. Gastroenterologists also carefully study details and patterns  of the symptoms in order to rule out IBS. 

While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, there are several factors that are believed to contribute to the development of irritable bowel syndrome. These include:

Bacterial Infection

Post-infectious IBS can occur after a patient develops conditions like gastroenteritis or acid reflux. When the bacteria in the digestive tract takes over, bacterial infection can affect digestive function and lead to IBS. Around 10% of individuals who experience bacteria-induced gastroenteritis develop IBS afterwards. 

Changes In Gut Bacteria

Bacteria is present in the gut and can be beneficial in keeping “bad” bacteria away while also aiding in digestion. Changes in gut flora may prevent the digestive tract from operating normally.

Muscle Contractions

The intestine is lined with muscles that contract as food travels through the digestive tract. Muscle contractions can affect how the digestive system operates.

Longer muscle contractions can pull in more gas into the colon, leading to gas and bloating. Slower, weaker muscle contractions lead to slower food passage, resulting in lumpy stools and constipation. Similarly, fast muscle contractions often mean that more water is being pulled in the colon, which leads to fast digestion and loose, watery stools. 

Consistent deviation from normal muscle contractions can permanently disrupt the digestive cycle. When this happens, discomfort during digestion may be exacerbated, leading to IBS. 

Complications With Nervous System

Normal digestive signals may be misinterpreted by the brain, causing the system to overreact. When this happens, normal digestive functions may result in extra pain, diarrhea, and constipation. These abnormal reactions can become permanent, resulting in irritable bowel syndrome.  

Can Food Cause IBS?

No, there are no studies that support the direct link of food and IBS. On the other hand. contaminated foods and drinks may carry bacteria that could result in IBS symptoms. 

In reality, irritable bowel syndrome symptoms can only be triggered by food, not caused by it. Depending on the type of IBS experienced by the patient, certain foods may worsen episodes of diarrhea, constipation, or both. 

In general, these are the foods patients with IBS should aim to avoid:

• Gluten: Gluten is a protein present in common grains such as wheat and rye. Some people are allergic to gluten and may experience diarrhea upon digestion. There is also a form of gluten intolerance that doesn’t involve an immune response to the protein. This intolerance still produces the same reactions of a gluten allergy, including persistent abdominal pain. 
• Fiber: Adjusting fiber intake should be dependent on the type of IBS experienced by the patient. Insoluble fiber coming from vegetables and whole grains may worsen constipation. On the other hand, soluble fiber sourced from fruits and legumes may worsen diarrhea. 
• Caffeine: Coffee, energy drinks, and certain tea products containing high levels of caffeine may prove too stimulating for the digestive system. When ingested in large amounts, caffeine can trigger diarrhea in patients with IBS. 
• Dairy: Lactose intolerance is common among patients with IBS. Foods that have a high-fat content also tend to trigger constipation and diarrhea. Look for nonfat or low-fat alternatives to mitigate symptoms of IBS.    
• Processed Food: Fried foods contain an increased amount of oil, sugar, salt, and other preservatives that could aggravate IBS symptoms. Watch out for foods that are labeled sugar-free; these synthetic sweeteners contain ingredients that are difficult to digest, which will only force your digestive system to work harder, resulting in abdominal pain. 

Can Stress Cause IBS?

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology suggests that psychological stress may also inhibit normal digestive functions. Researchers believe that psychological stress affect intestinal sensitivity, altering immune responses and mucus secretion, both of which are crucial factors in safeguarding the intestine from bacteria. 

Although a direct correlation between stress and IBS has yet to be founded, recent findings point towards abnormal functions in the central nervous system as the main cause for this syndrome. Overstimulation of the system can affect brain-gut interactions, which ultimately changes the way the gastrointestinal system reacts to different stimuli.

Researchers also established a strong relation between the IBS severity and psychiatric disorders. They found that stressful episodes tend to coincide with IBS flare-ups in affected patients.

Further study is required to pinpoint stress as the primary source of IBS. Given its strong relations, psychological help is often administered to patients with IBS to help manage the symptoms. 

Tell-Tale Signs and Symptoms

1. Abdominal Pain 

It’s normal for muscles to contract during digestion, but signal interruptions between the brain and intestine can exacerbate this sensation, leading to pain. Patients suffering from IBS have impaired brain-gut connection, leading to abnormal levels of abdominal pain and cramping. This pain is usually situated on the lower abdomen and can be relieved by a bowel movement. 

2. Diarrhea

Diarrhea is one of the predominant types of IBS, but can easily occur in patients with other types of IBS. For patients with irritable bowel syndrome, abnormal muscle contractions can promote faster bowel movement, leading to more frequent and urgent bowel movements. 

Some patients report having bowel movements twice the normal amount, and is typically accompanied by watery stools. Mucus secretion can happen to patients with IBS, which could also be present in the stools. 

Anti-diarrhea medicine can be used to prevent sudden bouts of diarrhea, but is usually not recommended for long-term use. Instead, lifestyle and dietary alterations are prioritized so patients can experience long-term improvements. 

3. Constipation and Indigestion

Constipation is another predominant symptom in IBS. In fact, 50% of IBS cases are considered constipation-dominant. Constipated patients find themselves on the other side of the spectrum; instead of fast-moving, watery stools, affected individuals report slower and fewer bowel movements that are often dry and lumpy.

While rare, the presence of blood in the stool may be caused by a hemorrhoid or an anal fissure from straining during the movement. Patients report having 1-3 bowel movements a week with IBS-C. Laxatives and increased water intake are prescribed to patients experiencing constipation.   

4. Bloating and Gassiness

Bloating is a common symptom for both IBS-C and IBS-D type syndromes. Many patients recognize bloating and gassiness as two of the most pervasive symptoms of IBS. A gas flare-up from IBS may last for 2-4 days but can easily be prevented with a conscientious approach towards food. 

Eating smaller meals more frequently, exercise, and a considerable reduction in fiber consumption are the key approaches to mitigating gassiness for IBS patients. 

5. Sensitivity to Food

Symptoms for food intolerance and food allergies can be quite similar, leading to the common assumption that IBS and food allergies are the same. The difference between food intolerance and food allergy is defined by immune response. In food allergies, the body responds to certain food proteins by activating antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE) that “fight” that protein. 

On the other hand, the discomfort felt from food intolerance isn’t derived from an immune response. Sensitivity to certain food components (lactose in dairy products, for example) result from decreased levels or a lack of enzymes and digestive properties that allow the body to properly break down certain foods. 

Food intolerance often results in diarrhea. Food allergy, on the other hand, can lead to anaphylaxis — an immune response characterized by loss of consciousness and difficulty in breathing just by merely touching a specific type of food. 

6. Fatigue

Patients suffering from IBS often cite insomnia and fatigue as a side-effect of IBS. In a study involving 160 individuals with IBS, patients reported a decrease in stamina and generalized anxiety as non-intestinal side effects of IBS. Poor sleep quality and stress are perceived as the common reasons for fatigue in IBS patients.

When to See a Doctor

Symptoms for IBS remain the same and only fluctuate in severity and frequency over time. Experiencing the following symptoms may be signs of a worsening case of IBS or the development of other gastrointestinal complications: 

• Undescribed, disruptive pain. Persistent or worsening pain that prevents you from continuing daily activities is a red flag and requires immediate medical intervention. 
• Weight loss. Even IBS-D patients don’t experience rapid rates of weight loss. Get in touch with your physician when you start experiencing unexplainable weight loss alongside noticeable changes in appetite. 
• Rectal bleeding. The presence of blood in the stool is uncommon in IBS cases. Fecal bleeding may point to more serious problems concerning the gastrointestinal system, which requires further study from your physician. 

5 Myths About Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Incorrect assumptions regarding irritable bowel syndrome are prolific. For instance, IBD and IBS are commonly interchanged, while others believe that IBS is a rare and viral condition. 

Understanding the science behind irritable bowel syndrome helps with the taboo, considering this is a common disorder that affects millions of Americans, accounting for up to 3.5 million physician visits in the United States alone.  

Below are the top myths about irritable bowel syndrome, and the truths behind them: 

1. IBS leads to other diseases

There is an ongoing and incorrect understanding that IBS is a precursor to a host of gastrointestinal diseases such as IBD, colitis, and colon cancer. In reality, IBS is a separate condition that does not evolve into any of the aforementioned conditions. 

These disorders are preceded by different circumstances (in the case of colitis, the intestine is often infected with bacteria, leading to inflammation) that are not related to irritable bowel syndrome. 

2. IBS is a rare condition

According to the IBS organization, more than 40 million are affected by IBS in the United States alone. An estimated of up to 15% of the world population is affected by IBS. Women are likelier to develop IBS in men, accounting for 2 out of 3 cases of existing IBS cases. 

3. IBS is a chronic condition with no possible treatments 

Although irritable bowel syndrome is a long-term condition, there are treatment options available for patients who want to keep their symptoms under control. Medication and dietary restrictions are applied to patients depending on their type of IBS. 

For example, antispasmodics are recommended to patients who experience prolonged episodes of abdominal pain and constipation. It’s possible to improve a sufferer’s quality of life just with lifestyle changes alone. 

4. IBS symptoms are limited to the intestine

The presence of IBS can dampen a person’s quality of life, affecting factors that don’t involve digestive functions. As mentioned, a link between poor quality of sleep and IBS have already been suggested by researchers. 

Patients also report loss of appetite and generalized anxiety as a result of the syndrome. This is why psychological help is often recommended to patients to help them adjust to a life of living with the syndrome. 

5. IBS is impossible to diagnose

Unlike other gastrointestinal complications, IBS doesn’t produce physical alterations that can lead to a definitive diagnosis. Instead, gastroenterologists diagnose IBS by eliminating other possible disorders that could potentially be the source of discomfort. 

This doesn’t mean that the basis of the diagnosis is unscientific. The Rome Criteria, a criteria passed by a group of gastroenterologists at a conference in Rome in 1988, is being used to reach an accurate diagnosis for IBS. A revision, known as Rome IV, was released in 2016. 

The Rome Criteria pertains to “Recurrent abdominal pain, on average, at least 1 day per week in the last 3 months.” This description is used to observe and categorize the three most telling symptoms of IBS:

• Patterns of defecations
• Changes in frequency and consistency of bowel movements
• Changes in appearance of bowels 

Diagnosing IBS 

40% of referrals to gastroenterologists are due to functional gastrointestinal disorders, and 12% of which are believed to be IBS cases.  Physical tests are commonly prescribed to the patient in order to rule out other complications. Understanding patterns and problems in key symptoms are also key in diagnosing IBS. 

The primary key in distinguishing IBS is abdominal pain located below the chest and above the hips. Pain that changes according to bowel habits is considered a hallmark in IBS diagnosis. 

The Rome Criteria is used to reach a definitive diagnosis only when there is no apparent intestinal abnormality. In other words, the Rome Criteria is only relevant when there are no known physical and biochemical abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract. 

Patients also have to be experiencing the symptoms at least 6 months prior to the diagnosis and is persistent within the last 3 months to be distinguished as IBS.

Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: How to Manage It

Various steps are taken in order to mitigate IBS symptoms. These lifestyle changes are known to improve a patient’s overall comfort and quality of life:

Reduce Stress: It’s not unusual for physicians to recommend psychological help alongside dietary modifications. Stress could aggravate IBS symptoms, and knowing how to manage day-to-day anxiety and stress can help prevent flare-ups. Relaxation and mindfulness techniques are taught to the patient in order to help the patient regain control and confidence even with IBS. 

Regular Exercise: Although it may seem counterintuitive to exercise with IBS, some studies suggest that a moderate 20 to 30-minute exercise improve symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Patients who underwent a more active physical activity program showed less symptom severity than the group that didn’t have exercise in their routine. 

Modified Diet: The patient’s type of IBS will inform his or her dietary restrictions. Certain foods are known to trigger adverse reactions in an already irritable intestine. As a result, symptoms are less severe and reactionary, and can even disappear for longer periods of time before resurfacing again. 

Beat IBS With Gastro Center NJ

Not sure if you have IBS? Get in touch with us to reach a proper diagnosis today. At Gastro Center NJ, we employ a rigorous medical approach together with comprehensive customer care in order to give you the best level of professional help.

Book an appointment with us and learn how to manage your IBS symptoms so you can live your best life yet. 

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