The month of April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month. In this article, we describe the ramifications of irritable bowel syndrome, and then discuss four of the best, easily accessible supplements which can help those with this condition.
A Look at Irritable Bowel Syndrome
April is recognized by the International Federation for Gastrointestinal Disorders as Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month. This is a fairly common condition, as roughly 12% of Americans have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Generally, IBS diagnoses are more common in those under 50 than those over 50, and this condition is about twice as likely to occur in women as it is in men.
IBS affects the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, causing pain, cramping, and bloating associated with bowel movements. It can also cause changes in the frequency of bowel movements. This condition merits medical treatment, especially if accompanied by more serious symptoms such as weight loss, rectal bleeding, and unexplained vomiting.
The symptoms of IBS can come and go, but they often last for years. Various factors can contribute to IBS. These include unusual intestinal contractions, poor nerve signaling between the brain and intestines, infection, changes in the gut microbiome, and even early life stress. IBS treatment centers around prevention of undesirable symptoms; Much of this has to do with avoiding triggering foods. Regular exercise and sufficient sleep are also important for managing IBS.
4 Natural Supplements for IBS
Proper nutrition plays an important role in preventing symptoms in someone with IBS. Certain natural supplements can aid in the reduction of IBS symptoms. Here are four of the most renowned natural supplements which can be of bodily support to someone with IBS:
Psyllium husk: Fiber is a plant-derived substance common to many foods, and psyllium husk fiber is one of the best natural edible fibers for those with an irritable bowel. Psyllium husk powder is a gentle, soluble fiber which is easily dissolvable in water. This gentle fiber helps improve stool consistency so that it travels through the intestine more efficiently, which can help mitigate broth constipation and diarrhea caused by IBS. With psyllium husk, it is best to start at a low dose, and increase the dose over time.
Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the human body. It’s known for its crucial role in sleep, but melatonin is also important for digestion. This is because melatonin helps regulate motility, which refers to the movement of intestinal muscles. Research from 2023 suggests that taking 6mg of melatonin daily, in either the morning or evening, can improve digestion.
Probiotics: These are the good bacteria that exist naturally within the intestinal tract. Taking a probiotic supplement could help to bring balance to the gut in cases where it has been disrupted. Research has shown that probiotics can specifically help to improve motility and reduce gut inflammation.
Vitamin D is valuable to the body, and you need it for many reasons. However, research suggests that IBS might have a particular link to lower-than-normal Vitamin D levels. Other research suggests that low vitamin D levels are linked to leaky gut associated with IBS, which is a specific form of gut dysfunction. Some research suggests that occasional high-dose intakes of vitamin D could help reduce symptoms of IBS.
If you or someone in your family has irritable bowel syndrome, consider all four of these natural supplements. Each has the potential to make a meaningful difference in the quality of life of someone with IBS, especially when coupled with healthy lifestyle choices and proper medical treatment. Talk to your healthcare provider before first trying a new supplement.