Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is the most common disease diagnosed by gastroenterologists. According to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, IBS affects up to 10 to 15 percent of the U.S. population. Though symptoms vary from person to person, common complaints include bloating, lower abdominal pain, gas, constipation and diarrhea. Due to the unpredictability of IBS, this condition can cause strain on social and intimate relationships as well as negatively impact family and career responsibilities. Because there are no structural abnormalities with IBS, therapeutic interventions are often related to lifestyle and individual behaviors.
Physical Stress to the Digestive System
For many, there is a strong psychological connection with IBS, but environmental triggers are also common. Flare-ups can come from dietary sources as well as consistency and timing of meals. Common dietary triggers include coffee, milk and other dairy products, citrus fruits, artificial sweeteners like sorbitol and xylitol, wheat products, and gassy foods like cabbage and broccoli. Meals high in fat and calories have also been known to bring on an attack. Eating too fast can also contribute to poor digestion and trigger symptoms, as can waiting too long between meals.
Emotional and Chemical Stress
In his book "Natural Health, Natural Medicine," Dr. Andrew Weil describes irritable bowel syndrome as a nervous disorder that interferes with the natural operations of the intestinal tract. There is a strong correlation between the state of mind and the digestive system. Constant fight-or-flight responses, related to uncontrollable or mismanaged stress, can overstimulate the nervous system, triggering an attack. Since tobacco products and other stimulants can cause an attack, it is best to avoid anything that could further excite the nervous system.
De-Stress to Digest
Proper digestion is related to a number of variables, including the dining environment. Watching the news or eating at a work desk is not typically relaxing. One of the immediate reactions during fight-or-flight response is that digestion slows or shuts down. This halting of digestion can wreak havoc on the digestive system, producing many uncomfortable symptoms. Sitting upright with good posture gives the digestive organs their proper space, also aiding in digestion. Overeating taxes the digestive system, and it cannot function optimally. It is also important to relax after eating or even take a light stroll through the neighborhood.
Hypnotherapy Can Help
Regular practice of relaxation techniques not only calms the body and mind during the activities, but it also has a carryover effect throughout the day. Meditation, yoga and reflexology can all be beneficial at controlling and relieving stress, but according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, research is insufficient to validate these as remedies for IBS. Hypnosis on the other hand, has shown substantial, long-term benefit, especially in quality of life.
Document Stress and Possible Trigger
There is not always a clear cause and effect when it comes to IBS symptoms, though a detailed journal may uncover common triggers related to diet or behavioral issues. Journal entries could document daily stressors and corresponding emotional responses, hours of sleep or issues related to sleeplessness, timing of meals and description of meals. Since processed refined foods often have many additives, it may be hard to determine the exact culprit. Patterns may become apparent that provide information on obvious personal triggers. A section in this journal can also be used as a stress journal, jotting down stressful thoughts, creating an outlet for pent-up stress and tension.
References
- The Merck Online Medical Library; Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- "Natural Health, Natural Medicine"; Andrew Weil, 2004
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Irritable Bowel Syndrome and CAM: At a Glance
