What’s the Deal with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

By: Dr. Aaron Hoo | November 9, 2009

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a bowel disorder that is characterized sometimes by severe abdominal pain with alterations in the frequency of bowel habits as well as the consistency such as diarrhea or constipation. This is not to be confused with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) which includes conditions such as Chron’s disease or Ulcerative colitis.

While the underlying cause of IBS was unknown for a long time, scientists now attribute the following as possible contributors to IBS: bacterial infection, antibiotic therapy, food allergies and/or sensitivities, stress, bacterial overgrowth (functional dyspepsia), and hormones.

It is not difficult to imagine then, with the above factors, how easily IBS can be misdiagnosed or mistreated. In light of the different underlying causes for IBS, the treatment would then vary depending on the identified cause(s).

For example, removing wheat, dairy, or sugar from the diet is often recommended to provide symptomatic relief and allow the gastric lining the opportunity to “settle” down. Other treatment options may include limiting dietary animal protein so as to minimize the amount of toxic metabolic by-products from these forms of protein or supporting the gut ecology by introducing beneficial bacterial or probiotics such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium.

While removing the contributing factors to IBS is logical, additional support such as repairing the gastro-intestinal lining is also recommended. This can be achieved by using herbs such as aloe or de-glycyrrhinized licorice as well as L-glutamine which is the primary source of fuel for the cells in the intestinal tract.

As always, a healthy dietary regimen with plenty water, rest and moderate exercise should be maintained along with nutritional supplementation. If you or a loved one is suffering from IBS, please consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that your healthcare goals are addressed.

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About the Author:

Dr. Aaron Hoo - Dr. Aaron Christopher Hoo graduated from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto. Prior to this, he completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology at the University of British Columbia. Aaron has a private medical practice in downtown Vancouver and travels across North America as a keynote speaker, educating doctors on functional medicine and clinical nutrition. In addition, he is a clinical supervisor and faculty member at the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine. Dr. Hoo is also a medical writer for a Canadian health sciences corporation and past contributing writer with the Canadian Disability Magazine; he currently serves as a board member at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. In his spare time, he maintains a balance of spirituality and wellness through travel, regular exercise, yoga and meditation. - View Dr. Aaron Hoo's Website