Consult a healthcare provider. This condition requires professional medical evaluation and treatment. The information here is for educational purposes only.

Digestive

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

ICD: K58.9

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gut disorder causing abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Diet changes, probiotics, and targeted supplements can help manage symptoms in many people.

Overview

Understanding IBS

IBS is a chronic functional digestive disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits without structural damage to the gut. It’s diagnosed based on symptoms and exclusion of other conditions.

IBS Subtypes

  • IBS-C: Constipation-predominant
  • IBS-D: Diarrhea-predominant
  • IBS-M: Mixed (alternating constipation and diarrhea)

Possible Contributing Factors

  • Gut-brain axis dysfunction
  • Altered gut motility
  • Visceral hypersensitivity (increased pain perception)
  • Gut microbiome imbalance
  • Food intolerances (FODMAPs, lactose, etc.)
  • Stress and anxiety

Common Symptoms

Abdominal pain or crampingvery common
Bloating and distensionvery common
Bloating and gasvery common
Diarrhea, constipation, or bothcommon
Mucus in stoolcommon

Natural Approaches

Dietary Approaches

Low-FODMAP Diet
One of the most effective dietary strategies. Temporarily restricts fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs) that can trigger symptoms, then systematically reintroduces to identify personal triggers. Should ideally be guided by a dietitian.

Fiber Modulation
Soluble fiber (psyllium) is often better tolerated than insoluble fiber. Gradually increase to avoid worsening gas and bloating.

Probiotics & Gut Support

Probiotics
Certain probiotic strains can reduce IBS symptoms, particularly bloating and pain. Benefits are strain-specific; blends containing Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species are commonly used.

Peppermint Oil
Enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules relax intestinal smooth muscle and can reduce pain and bloating in IBS. Typically taken before meals.

L-Glutamine
May help intestinal barrier function and reduce diarrhea in some IBS patients.

Lifestyle & Gut-Brain Axis

  • Stress management (stress often worsens symptoms)
  • Exercise (supports gut motility and stress reduction)
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy or gut-directed hypnotherapy

Conventional Treatments

  • Antispasmodics: To reduce cramping
  • Laxatives: For IBS-C
  • Antidiarrheals: For IBS-D
  • Low-dose antidepressants: For pain modulation
  • Prescription IBS drugs: For refractory cases (e.g., linaclotide, rifaximin)

This section provides context about standard medical treatments. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Compounds That May Help

Probiotics

Moderate

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, provide health benefits. Different strains have different effects – from digestive support to immune modulation to mood improvement via the gut-brain axis. Strain specificity is crucial when matching a probiotic to a health goal.

Magnesium

Strong

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body and is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions. It's essential for energy production, muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. Deficiency is surprisingly common (up to 50% of the population) and linked to numerous health issues.

IBS symptoms can overlap with more serious conditions (IBD, celiac disease, colorectal cancer). New or changing symptoms, weight loss, blood in stool, or symptoms starting after age 50 warrant immediate medical evaluation.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) | Natural Compare