Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that causes abdominal discomfort or pain, along with other symptoms, such as bad breath, belching, bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation. Having IBS can be very frustrating for both the patient and their doctor, as symptoms can fluctuate and vary widely, with medical treatments only having limited effectiveness. Understanding the underlying causes and factors of IBS can be key to finding more effective treatments and ways to manage the condition, which we’ll discuss in this article.
What causes IBS?
The most prominent cause of IBS is an imbalanced gut microbiome–known as “dysbiosis”–where there is an overgrowth of unhealthy gut bacteria, which produce harmful gases that irritate the small and large intestine. This leads to cramping, pain, and diarrhea or constipation. There are also other factors, including a brain-gut link, where many patients suffer gut symptoms as well as psychological distress.
It is known that most patients suffering from IBS have one or more of the following mechanisms involved:
- Decreased intestinal barrier function (i.e., “leaky gut”) that triggers allergies and inflammation
- Intestinal lining hypersensitivity from neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which affect smooth muscle stimulation in the gut
- Bile acid malabsorption
Improving intestinal organisms through diet and prebiotics
A major step to treating IBS is to improve the gut microbiome through a healthy diet and the use of prebiotics. Prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber that helps stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, and can be found in certain foods, such as onions, garlic, and bananas. You can also take prebiotic dietary supplements like inulin powder, which is derived from the chicory root.
Eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also help improve gut health and promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria. It is essential to avoid processed and sugary foods, as well as saturated fats, which can cause inflammation and negatively impact gut health.
In some cases, antibiotics might be required to deal with an overgrowth of harmful gut bacteria. However, an overreliance on antibiotics can also kill off healthy gut bacteria, so it should be used cautiously and in line with your doctor’s advice.
Regulating neurotransmitters
It has been shown that imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in the modulation of pain and gut motility, can contribute to IBS. However, some studies have suggested that certain probiotics and natural remedies can help regulate these neurotransmitters, thereby improving symptoms of IBS. For example, a probiotic called Lactobacillus rhamnosus has been shown to improve serotonin levels, while Bifidobacterium infantis can help boost levels of tryptophan, a precursor of serotonin. These probiotics can be taken as supplements, but always consult your doctor before starting any new treatment.
The role of Small Bowel Intestinal Overgrowth (SIBO)
SIBO is another condition that can contribute to IBS and several other illnesses. It occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, which can damage the intestinal lining and lead to a myriad of symptoms, including bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Treating SIBO can involve a combination of dietary modifications, antibiotics, and probiotics, as well as addressing any underlying issues that may be contributing to the condition.
In conclusion, IBS is a complex and multifaceted disorder that requires a comprehensive approach to understand and treat its underlying causes. By improving your gut health through dietary changes, prebiotics, and regulating neurotransmitters, you can work towards addressing the root causes of IBS and improving your quality of life. Remember, always consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet or trying new supplements or treatments.
