Irritable bowel syndrome, also referred to as IBS is the medical label given to reoccurring or long term intestinal symptoms of unknown origin.
Do I have IBS? It is very likely that you have IBS if you are suffering with:
- bloating
- abdominal discomfort
- constipation or diarrhea
- hard lumpy stools
- gas pain
- mucus in stools
- heartburn
- painful sexual intercourse
- headaches
- unpleasant taste in mouth
- frequent urination
- anxiety/depression
- insomnia
- painful periods
- nausea
- flatulence
- fatigue
- intolerance to certain foods
Traditional Medical Approach to Irritable Bowel Syndrome
From a medical viewpoint, the cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome is essentially unknown and the treatment is, at best, palliative in nature. Once a relatively rare disorder, IBS now affects an estimated 10% – 15% of the U.S.population. It is twice as common in women as in men, although women may be more likely to seek treatment.
How I Approach Irritable Bowel Syndrome Holistically
Our clinical experience in resolving Irritable bowel syndrome has been extraordinary. However, before holistic treatment begins, it is necessary to rule out common illnesses that mimic the symptoms of IBS. These include:
- celiac disease
- pancreatic insufficiency and other malabsorption conditions
- diverticular disease
- laxative abuse
- lactose intolerance
- biliary tract disease
- “leaky gut” syndrome
- ulcerative colitis
- dysbiosis
- parasitic diseases such as amebiasis, giardiasis and campylobacter
- cancer of the colon or rectum
- duodenal ulcer
What causes IBS
- Food allergies and sensitivities
- Candida overgrowth, parasite infections and dysbiosis
- Poor stress coping mechanisms
- A diet that is high in refined man made foods and sugars and low in fiber
- Infections
- Genetic predisposition
- Bowel inflammation
- Various hormonal imbalances and/or deficiencies
The aim of natural/holistic care is:
- To reduce pain and spasm with proven herbal antispasmodics, analgesics and anti-inflammatories.
- Support the nervous system with herbal tonics or supplements.
- Alleviate constipation and/or diarrhea and balance the bowel flora.
- To use EFT to handle hidden emotional drivers.
What foods are usually a trigger for IBS
It is absolutely imperative in all Irritable bowel syndrome cases to avoid, or get desensitized to, all food allergens, to drink plenty of clean filtered water, avoid hard to digest foods as well as mucus forming foods, and to eat a high fiber diet. Wheat, dairy, sugar, and soy should always be carefully evaluated for tolerance. Do not use wheat bran for fiber. Avoid ice cold drinks as well as alcohol, caffeine, spicy and deep fried foods and tobacco.
What testing is recommended
Many irritable bowel syndrome sufferers have multiple hidden food and food additive hypersensitivities, it is most helpful to test for food intolerances including the lectins and salicylates, phenolics and amines in foods. Most labs don’t or can’t do this, we use the proven “AllerCease™” technique to rapidly and non-invasively clarify these very important issues. AllerCease™ is a hands on, in office procedure. In patients with multiple food and food chemical intolerances, it can also be important to evaluate the gut lining for intestinal permeability and low immunity, with specialized lab testing.
Are Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms reversible?
In summary, I consider Irritable bowel syndrome completely reversible in most cases, when a comprehensive holistic approach is used to evaluate and treat it.
Dr. Arthur I Cushing D.C.,DCh.,C.N.C.,FSAC.
If you have any questions or wish to make an appointment.