IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a gut disorder that affects up to 15% of the UK population (10-15% of the American population) and about 10% of the worlds population.
IBS-like symptoms can occur in people who suffer from other gut conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and coeliac disease. Therefore, if you have a chaotic gut it is important to see a medical practitioner to get a definitive diagnosis and rule out any other causes for your symptoms.
IBS can affect your quality of life with the symptoms coming and going without warning.
IBS mainly involves the large intestine however sufferers can also experience symptoms in the upper gut (oesophagus, stomach)
The typical ‘ABC’ symptoms of IBS are:
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Bloating/feeling uncomfortably full
Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea and/or constipation)
Other symptoms can include:
- Cramping
- Excessive gas and flatulence
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Belching
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Headaches
- Inflammation and pain in muscles and joints
Research at Monash University has illustrated that some carbohydrates may contribute to IBS symptoms. These carbohydrates are called Fermentable Oligo-saccharides, Di-saccharides, Mono-saccharides And Polyols or FODMAPs
