Are digestion issues keeping you from living your life and enjoying time with friends and family?
It has been estimated that 2 out of 3 females and 1 out of 3 males suffer from IBS in the United States. However, conventional treatment and testing recommendations often leave patients suffering. IBS symptoms can significantly interfere with a happy, social life. At Ponderosa Natural Medicine we have many options to investigate and treat underlying causes of IBS in a holistic and functional manner.
The symptoms of IBS include the following:
- Abdominal pain, discomfort, or cramping
- Abdominal bloating following meals
- Constipation/diarrhea or both
- Urgency for a bowel movement
- Heartburn
- Hemorrhoids and anal itching
- Anxiety, depression
- Fatigue and/or poor sleep
- Excessive gas or burping
- Feeling full easily
Potential underlying imbalances associated with IBS:
- Lactose or fructose Intolerance
- Poor protein digestion from low stomach acid or low pancreatic enzymes
- Poor fat digestion from low pancreatic enzymes or gallbladder issues
- Bacterial or yeast overgrowth in the GI tract/ Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
- Low or high probiotic status
- Low dietary intake of fiber/ too much intake of prebiotic fibers
- Past or present parasitic or protozoa or other infections
- Anxiety and increased stress
- Poor sleep quality
Testing options to determine underlying causes of IBS:
Comprehensive Stool Test (GI effects):
- Tests for protein/fat digestion, inflammation, bacterial imbalances, bacterial/yeast/parasitic infections, blood in stool
- Lactose Breath Test:
- Checks for gas production after drinking lactose
- Lactulose Breath Test (SIBO test):
- Tests for hydrogen and methane producing bacteria in the small intestine
- Adrenal Testing
- Supports the stress response to support digestion
- Food Intolerance Testing
- Tests for inflammatory reactions cause by certain food intake
Holistic Treatment Options for IBS:
- Herbal antimicrobial for bacterial/yeast overgrowth
- Herbal remedies to support gallbladder function and stomach acid levels
- Pancreatic enzymes or supplemental stomach acid as needed
- Herbal and nutritional remedies to support nervous system function
- Detoxifying hydrotherapy appointments and at home castor oil packs
- Dietary changes including low FODMAP diet or increased consumption of certain fiber rich foods
If you have been suffering from IBS symptoms and have not found relief, it is time to see a naturopathic doctor. We have many options for testing and treatment to help give you the freedom to enjoy your relationship to food again!