Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Conventional treatment of IBS has a poor success rate and is based mainly on anti-spasm pills and a high fibre diet. Since food intolerance is common in IBS (food exclusion diets help over 70% of people with IBS), dietary manipulations are very important. Interestingly, wheat is a common trigger for IBS and is probably why high fibre diets (often containing wheat) can make so many people worse. Associated nutritional deficiencies can be also corrected with supplements.
Abnormal fermentation in the gut may be a problem after a course of antibiotics and this can result in yeast overgrowth. This is often a cause for IBS symptoms and responds very well to a sugar-free diet, herbal remedies, probiotics (good gut bacteria) and homeopathic techniques. Hypnosis and other relaxation techniques have been shown to be helpful in treating IBS and 4-6 sessions with a skilled psychologist can be an important part of the treatment.
Acupuncture and classical homeopathy also have a part to play in IBS treatment but it is important to choose the most appropriate techniques for the individual patient.
