Suffering from IBS? You need to look at the root cause!
Have you been diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and things aren’t getting better even though you’ve tried to make some changes?
Whether your IBS is diarrhoea predominant (IBS-D), constipation predominant (IBS-C), mixed (IBS-M) or an unsubtyped IBS, understanding the root cause can help you manage your condition.
SIBO or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth
It is defined as the presence of excessive bacteria in the small intestine and is often linked with chronic diarrhoea and malabsorption (1).
Scientific papers show that around 60% of IBS sufferers who have IBS-like symptoms actually have SIBO (2). If you have SIBO you may also experience excessive bloating (especially after eating), gas and unintentional weight loss. If that’s the case for you, there is a lot you can do to feel better.
FOOD SENSITIVITIES
Have you noticed that certain foods are a trigger? Perhaps you’re feeling that everything is a trigger and then it gets tricky!
Rather than spending your money on a food intolerance test, I would suggest you start a food and symptoms diary to help you find out what is causing the issue. Be aware that it can take up to 72 hours for symptoms to appear after consuming a food trigger. However, be careful not to stay on a restrictive diet for a long period of time as this can lead to nutrient deficiencies and have a negative effect on your gut microbiome diversity. Working with a registered nutritionist to guide you through the process is more prudent.
LEAKY GUT
In simple terms, ‘leaky gut syndrome’ is when the walls of your intestines (your gut lining) are damaged. It is also called increased intestinal permeability. Your gut lining acts as a barrier, controlling what enters the bloodstream to be transported to your organs. When the gut is ‘leaky’, unwanted substances (bacteria, fungi, potentially toxic molecules and undigested food particles) enter the bloodstream. This can lead to inflammation, changes to the gut flora and it may trigger a reaction from the immune system. Common symptoms of leaky gut are bloating, digestive issues, migraines, skin problems such as eczema, fatigue and even depression (2,3).
PARASITES
Intestinal parasites can cause symptoms of IBS and are often an overlooked cause. A 2017 study shows that protozoan parasites including Blastocystis, Cryptosporidium, and Giardia spp, play a role in the origination and development of IBS (4). A comprehensive stool test analysis with parasitology is therefore recommended to rule it out.
CANDIDA OVERGROWTH
Candida is a type of yeast overgrowth and it could be causing some of your symptoms (5). If candida is left untreated, it can also contribute to leaky gut syndrome making your IBS worse.
OTHER CAUSES
Undiagnosed inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, diverticulitis, hormonal imbalances such as endometriosis, lactose intolerance, imbalances in neurotransmitters, psychological factors or even a magnesium deficiency may also be causing your IBS-like symptoms (2).
If you’re struggling with IBS, I would highly recommend a comprehensive stool test with parasitology to dig deeper into your microbiome. Working with a registered nutritionist is essential in order to help you interpret your results and choose a trusted laboratory. The results will give you a more targeted and personalised approach towards your healing journey.
References
1. Dukowicz, A. C., Lacy, B. E., & Levine, G. M. (2007). Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: a comprehensive review. Gastroenterology & hepatology, 3(2), 112–122.
2. Lipski, E (2020) Digestive Wellness, 5th Edition, McGrawHill
3. Zhou, Q., Zhang, B., & Verne, G. N. (2009). Intestinal membrane permeability and hypersensitivity in the irritable bowel syndrome. Pain, 146(1-2), 41–46. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pain.2009.06.017
4. Jadallah, K. A., Nimri, L. F., & Ghanem, R. A. (2017). Protozoan parasites in irritable bowel syndrome: A case-control study. World journal of gastrointestinal pharmacology and therapeutics, 8(4), 201–207. https://doi.org/10.4292/wjgpt.v8.i4.201
5. Gu, Y., Zhou, G., Qin, X., Huang, S., Wang, B., & Cao, H. (2019). The Potential Role of Gut Mycobiome in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Frontiers in microbiology, 10, 1894. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2019.01894