Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a functional gut disorder involving symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, altered bowel habits, diarrhoea and/or constipation.

It is considered functional because even though gut symptoms are present, the gut appears normal based on traditional medical testing (such as when examined in an endoscopy).

What causes IBS?

The underlying cause of IBS is unclear, although several factors are considered to be involved including;

• visceral hypersensitivity
• altered gut motility
• alterations in the gut microbiota (gut dysbiosis)
• impaired gut-brain communication

What are the treatment options?

As IBS is considered a chronic condition and the exact cause is not clear, there is (currently) no single “cure” for IBS. There are a number of different strategies that can help manage and control IBS symptoms. What works best will vary depending on the individual.

The low FODMAP diet is one of the most effective and leading therapies to manage IBS.
Evidence shows that up to 75% of people with IBS will benefit from a diet known as the low FODMAP diet. It is effective for improving digestive symptoms (bloating, abdominal pain, gas, diarrhoea and constipation) common to IBS.

The low FODMAP diet is recommended to be administered under the guidance of a dietitian to formulate an individualised management plan and discover which FODMAP subgroups are best tolerated, and which may be problematic.

Dietary management of IBS is our dietitian, Rebecca’s area of expertise. Gain relief from debilitating IBS symptoms today and book an appointment here.