Yes, you CAN end the misery of IBS

With so many supposed ‘cures’ out there, which ones really work?

BLOATING, nausea, stomach cramps and a raft of embarrassing, and, at times, distressing digestive problems – as anyone with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) will know, it can feel like you’re in a neverending battle with your own gut.

surprise that browsing for answers online will throw up dozens of

But which, if any, actually work?

FIRST, JUST WHAT IS IBS... AND WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?

A DIAGNOSIS of IBS is used to describe a collection of digestive symptoms including constipation, diarrhoea and cramps, which usually come on after eating – and are relieved by going to the toilet.

Uncomfortable fullness and bloating after a meal are also common symptoms.

‘Doctors don’t actually know why it happens,’ says Mail on Sunday GP columnist, Dr Ellie Cannon.

A diagnosis of IBS is usually only made after tests have ruled out just about every other possible cause.

WHY REGULAR MEALS AND EXERCISE CAN HELP

IBS is thought to be incurable – but there are treatments.

simplest, yet often the hardest: eat gaps between meals or missing – possibly because we eat more when we do get round to it.

‘A standard breakfast, lunch and smaller meals throughout the day can help,’ advises Dr Cannon.

Walking, cycling or swimming, for at least 30 minutes a day, for reduce IBS symptoms and help to regulate the digestive system.

CAFFEINE AND CURRY

MANY IBS patients try cutting out acid and stimulates the gut,’ says registered nutritional therapist Jackie Lynch, author of diet advice books The Right Bite and Va Va Voom: The 10-Day Energy Diet That Will Stop You Feeling Tired All The Time.

two cups a day, alongside regular

Studies have also linked spicy foods to the worst IBS symptoms.

However, Lynch says: ‘Keep a food diary. If you notice something makes you rush to the loo, avoid drinking or eating it.’

DON’T SHUN FIBRE COMPLETELY

IBS PATIENTS are often told to – like brown bread, beans and pulses – because eating them might make things worse. But the gut needs fibre to work efficiently.

‘Try oats, which are easier to digest,’ says Lynch.

There are many supplements that contain probiotics – ‘friendly’ bacteria – marketed for IBS.

‘These do help,’ says Lynch. ‘But start with a low dose, because they can worsen symptoms.’

DIET TWEAKS MIGHT NOT BE ENOUGH

diet and lifestyle changes help control symptoms.

For more severe cases, doctors diets and medication.

Dr Cannon adds: ‘We may also refer patients for cognitive living with IBS, and some people do need support.’