April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness month. It’s a disorder that affects millions of people. It’s important to note that irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder and not a disease. The symptoms are caused by how the gastrointestinal (GI) tract works.
What is a Functional Disorder?
* “A functional disorder has its basis in how a bodily system works. A functional GI disorder refers to a “disorder of functioning” where the body’s normal activities in terms of the movement of the intestines, the sensitivity of the nerves of the intestines, or the way in which the brain controls some of these functions is impaired. However, there are no structural abnormalities that can be seen by endoscopy, x-ray, or blood tests. Thus, a functional GI disorder is identified by the characteristics of the symptoms and infrequently, when needed, limited tests.”
In IBS patients the gut is not working the way it needs to; it is inflamed. Digestion, absorption, assimilation and elimination can be compromised or not work at all with IBS.
If your food is not digested, it rots in your bowels. Proteins putrify, fats become rancid and carbohydrates ferment. This makes your gut more irritable.
My three steps to alleviate IBS
I advise my IBS clients to follow my three steps to alleviate the symptoms of IBS so that they can begin to repair and recover from this disorder:
Digestive Enzymes
Taking high potency, broad spectrum, plant-based digestive enzymes will help break down and digest your food even if your gut is not working properly. When your food is digested and nutrients are absorbed you will experience more energy and stamina and you’ll be able to think clearly. Digestive enzymes help reduce or minimize indigestion, heartburn, bloating, and other digestive issues. Plant-based digestive enzymes work throughout your GI, irrespective of function.
Immunoglobulins
Oral Immunoglobulin G helps to bind and neutralize toxins in your gut that are produced by improper digestion, rotting food, infections, an irritable and inflamed environment. They also fight harmful viruses, bacteria, fungal/yeast and parasitic infections.
ProBiotics
IBS patients tend to lack enough healthy, friendly probiotics. ProBiotics create a healthy environment in your gut that helps maintain bowel regularity, minimizing both constipation and diarrhea. They also help fight infection, fatigue, and reduce inflammation.
Have you had symptoms of IBS? How have you coped? What steps have you taken to recover?
* Source: www.aboutibs.org
