IBS is caused when the intestinal muscles go in to spasm and the contractions become uncoordinated. This disturbance can cause the contents of the intestines to move too fast or too slowly, leading to abdominal pain and either diarrhoea or constipation – and, in some cases, both.

Because no one is sure exactly what undermines healthy bowel function, doctors tend to diagnose IBS by eliminating other ailments with similar symptoms, such as diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease.

Many causes for IBS have been proposed including food, exercise, and hormones. Other suspects include bacteria, over-use of antibiotics, lactose intolerance or other food intolerances. Foods to avoid if you suffer from this complaint include fried foods, gluten (particularly in wheat products), alcohol, dairy products, caffeine and carbonated drinks.

 One underlying factor in almost all cases of IBS is stress, which whilst not causing IBS, aggravates the symptoms. It is thought that stress causes an imbalance of chemicals in the brain that in turn affect the gut. These chemical changes may also affect the pain signals sent to the brain by the nerves in the intestines.

Useful supplements:

Aloe Vera is a rich source of anti-inflammatories and also contains compounds that reduce pain, swelling and sooths inflamed tissue. Some studies show that it can reduce the spread of bacteria, viruses and fungi.

For sufferers of IBS, aloe vera can help soothe the spasms that lead to uncoordinated contractions.

Peppermint Oil capsules (enteric coated to ensure they pass through the stomach into the intestine before being released) are very effective in treating digestive disorders by calming the spasms that cause abdominal pain and relaxing the muscles of the intestine.

Psyllium is a type of dietary fibre that eases IBS symptoms for many people. In most cases, it works to correct constipation and is useful in combating diarrhoea because it absorbs water in the intestine and adds bulk to the stool, which in turn lessens the severity of spasms. (Always drink extra water when taking psyllium).

Probiotics are cultures of “friendly” bacteria that normally inhabit the intestine. They help digest food and prevent the unchecked growth of harmful bacteria. They also help to normalise bowel movement – both in constipation and diarrhoea.  In small-scale tests, probiotic supplements have been shown to reduce overall symptoms, abdominal pain and discomfort to a level comparable to pharmaceutical remedies.

Always see your doctor if abdominal pain is accompanied by:

·      Fever

·      Blood in your stool

·      Unintentional weight loss