9 Facts About IBS
Written by
kayla
19 October, 2020
· 1 min read
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - TLDR
1. There’s no test to diagnose IBS. Diagnoses are made based on symptomatic evaluations
2. IBD may sound similar and share many symptoms with IBS, but it is a more serious condition and requires different treatment, so get properly diagnosed by your practitioner.
3. Stress – along with anxiety and depression – can play a role in flare-ups.
4. You might have diarrhea, constipation, or both – along with stomach cramps, pain, bloating, and fatigue.
5. Yoga (especially if you're prone to diarrhea), hypnotherapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and mindfulness can all reduce symptoms.
6. Certain diets (like gluten-free and low-FODMAP) can't hurt and may help your symptoms.
7. Probiotics may improve symptoms by altering the gut bacteria, so talk to a nutritionist about which strain works best for you.
8. If your symptoms include bloating or gas, think about whether it might help to cut out foods that trigger gas (carbonated drinks, alcohol, caffeine, raw fruit, and veggies like cabbage and broccoli).
9. There's a lot of buzz about fecal transplants for IBS (yes, you heard that right), which involves transferring stool (aka poop) from someone with a healthy GI system via colonoscopy. Nothing official out there yet, but stay tuned for future studies!
What is Wana?
Wana: We Are Not Alone is the community for chronic conditions – an app enabling people with chronic and invisible conditions to connect and share information. Our mission is to destigmatize chronic illness and provide you with the support you need on your healing journey. Download the app here.
