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Irritable Bowl Syndrom (IBS)

Introduction

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS is a digestive disorder that affects people differently and to varying degrees. Symptoms include gas, bloating, pain, constipation and/or diarrhea and indigestion. Food intolerances and stress are usually implicated and can exacerbate the problem significantly. Some clients cannot tolerate gluten or lactose and others have fructose malabsorption issues. In more serious cases, the client may have all three food group sensitivities.

What we look at when treating IBS.
  1. Intestinal bacteria
    Good bacteria is essential for proper digestion and immune function. When we lose the balance of good bacteria, the chemistry of the intestine changes and symptoms begin. The immune system is modulated in the gut by the proper bacteria, so it’s crucially important to keep a healthy balance. Antibiotic use is one of the main culprits in depleting beneficial bacteria. Broad spectrum antibiotics are designed to kill all bacteria, good or bad, which leaves the intestines susceptible to dysbiosis. Other factors that disrupt the balance of bacteria are painkillers, prescription drugs, processed foods and alcohol. The good news is that we can reestablish proper bacterial balance with cleansing, key nutrients and whole food diet.
  2. Irregularity
    Constipation is the most common digestive problem we see in our clinic. Less that one complete bowel movement per day indicates chronic constipation. When hardened waste accumulates in the colon toxins are not eliminated, rather they reabsorb into the bloodstream(autointoxication), putting pressure on other organs – liver, kidneys, skin. This waste is also the perfect breeding ground for parasites and bad bacteria. Longterm use of laxatives to treat constipation is not the answer. Laxatives can have severe side effects including irritation and weakening of intestine, loss of essential nutrients and longterm dependency. Colon hydrotherapy is a safe and effective method of treating constipation and other digestive issues. Unlike laxatives(even herbal) colon irrigation does not use chemical pathways to stimulate the colon. Instead warmed, purified water acts physically to soften and remove built up waste and restore peristaltic function. Cleansing and strengthening the intestine is the foundation from which true health is built.
  3. Digestive enzymes
    Lack of digestive enzymes, such as amylase, protease and lipase as well as hydrochloric acid or stomach acid can cause bloating, indigestion, reflux, pain and cramping. Without the right balance of digestive enzymes, digestion is impaired and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium cannot be broken down or assimilated properly. Non-streiodal anti-inflammatory medications, including painkillers can damage the stomach, especially when used for long periods. Not enough chewing and over eating also put a strain on digestive capacity and function. Something you may not be aware of is that drinking large amounts of water or any other liquids with meals has the effect of diluting digestive enzymes thereby reducing digestive power. Try to drink fluids half an hour before or after meals.
  4. Diet
    Every time you eat or drink, you are either feeding disease or fighting it – it’s as simple as that. When it comes to IBS, diet is crucially important. In many cases food allergies trigger IBS symptoms. The big three are gluten, dairy and fructose. Eliminating processed foods, over heated oils, trans fats, sugar and dairy is a good start and will take the pressure off the digestive organs and allow healing to begin. Drinking enough water(1 litre per 30kg of body weight) is an important step in combating any digestive disorder and IBS is no exception. Drink more water!
More Information

We have various treatments we offer that can assist with treating your IBS – please contact us to have a chat about how we can hep today!

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