IBS
Not "just stress." IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) affects 10-15% of people, causing abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits. It's a disorder of gut-brain interaction with real physiological changes—altered motility, visceral hypersensitivity, and often underlying causes like SIBO that can be addressed.
IBS Types
IBS-D (Diarrhea)
Loose stools predominant. Urgency, frequent BMs. Often associated with hydrogen SIBO.
IBS-C (Constipation)
Hard, infrequent stools. Straining. Often associated with methane SIBO (IMO).
IBS-M (Mixed)
Alternating diarrhea and constipation. Both types present. Can be most challenging.
What's Happening in IBS
Gut Dysfunction
- Altered motility: Too fast or too slow transit
- Visceral hypersensitivity: Normal sensations = pain
- Dysbiosis: Imbalanced gut bacteria
- SIBO: Bacteria in wrong place
- Leaky gut: Barrier dysfunction
Brain-Gut Axis
- Stress response: Stress directly affects gut
- Vagus dysfunction: Communication breakdown
- Serotonin: 90% is in gut, affects motility
- Central sensitization: Brain amplifies gut signals
- Trauma link: ACEs increase IBS risk
Common IBS Triggers
FODMAPs
Fermentable carbs. Onions, garlic, wheat, lactose, certain fruits. Feed bacteria.
Stress
Major trigger. Gut is "second brain." Stress hormones alter motility.
Specific Foods
Varies by person. Common: dairy, gluten, caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods.
Hormones
Menstrual cycle affects symptoms. Often worse around period.
Medications
Antibiotics, NSAIDs, PPIs can trigger or worsen symptoms.
Eating Patterns
Large meals, eating fast, irregular timing. How you eat matters.
Treatment Approaches
Low FODMAP Diet
Elimination then reintroduction. 75% get relief. Work with dietitian.
Test for SIBO
Breath test. 60%+ of IBS has SIBO. Treat with antibiotics or herbals.
Gut-Brain Therapies
Gut-directed hypnotherapy, CBT. Address the brain side. Very effective.
Stress Management
Vagus nerve work, meditation. Calm nervous system, calm gut.