What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is the most common gastrointestinal condition, affecting an estimated 15% of the population.  Symptoms may include abdominal pain, wind, bloating and altered bowel habits.  Many people suffer diarrhoea, others constipation, and some suffer from a combination of both. 

What causes IBS?

Unfortunately in many people, the cause of IBS is unknown. The bowel appears to be oversensitive, with symptoms resulting from a variety of possible triggers. These can vary from person to person, as too can the severity and frequency of symptoms. In some people, factors such as stress, diet and infection can bring on or aggravate symptoms.

How Can Irritable Bowel Syndrome Be Treated?

Identifying the trigger for your IBS is essential in treating the condition.  Treatment may include three different types of management:

1) Medical Management - Reassurance is important. Once diagnosed, your doctor will help you understand how your symptoms come about and will reassure you that IBS does not lead to more serious conditions.  Your doctor will advise individual treatment for you.  Medications to target your specific symptoms may be prescribed by your doctor.  Symptoms that may benefit from medication include abdominal pain and bloating, constipation, diarrhoea and anxiety.

2) Psychological Management - Psychotherapy and counselling is often helpful in people who identify lifestyle and other factors (eg. anxiety, stress, depression, panic attacks) as triggers for their IBS symptoms.  Your GP will assist in identifying the right therapist for you.  

3) Dietary Management - Diet may be of benefit for people who identify dietary triggers for their IBS symptoms.  To assist in determining the role of diet and food triggers for IBS, you should consult an Accredited Practising Dietitian.  A food and symptom diary is often an effective way of identifying food triggers. 

Healthy Lifestyle - Medical, psychological and dietary management strategies listed above should be incorporated into the foundation of a healthy lifestyle.  Healthy lifestyle practices include incorporating regular physical activity, times for relaxation and enjoying socialising with friends and family. 

How Can Diet Help IBS?

If dietary triggers are identified to cause symptoms in IBS, you may benefit from modifying your diet.  Certain foods may be a contributing factor, but these can vary from person to person.  Dietary restrictions may mean that you are at risk of an inadequate intake of all of the essential daily nutrients.  An Accredited Practising Dietitian will assist you to ensure your diet is nutritionally adequate. 

Each person with IBS may have differing dietary triggers.  Common dietary issues for IBS include:

Fats

High fat diets can often aggravate symptoms of IBS.  A trial of a low fat diet may improve symptoms.

Fibre 

Increasing fibre is beneficial in most people with IBS, however, it is important to note that wheat bran fibre has been shown to worsen symptoms in some people with IBS.  The best sources of fibre include psyllium, legumes, lentils, barley, oats, rice, fruits and vegetables.  Always increase fibre gradually and have plenty of water with fibre.

Caffeine

Caffeine can stimulate the bowel and worsen symptoms in those with a diarrhoea predominant IBS.  Trial a reduction of caffeine intake, ie. coffee, coca cola.

Food Intolerances

Intolerance to milk products (eg. lactose intolerance) and/or wheat in some individuals can also aggravate symptoms.  Coeliac Disease (a condition of intolerance to gluten in the diet) should be investigated with your doctor.

Artificial Sweeteners

Some artificial sweeteners (eg. sorbitol, mannitol) can cause symptoms of abdominal bloating, flatulence and diarrhoea.  This type of sweetener is often used in sugar-free confectionery and sugar-free gum.

Probiotics

The role of probiotics (good bacteria) for bowel health is an interesting area of research and positive health benefits are emerging.  Including sources of probiotics, for example yoghurt, in the diet may alter the bowel bacteria, which may in turn improve IBS symptoms. 

How Can Orgran Products Assist Me?

The entire range of Orgran products are ideal for those with IBS.  They are wholesome, nutritious foods that can provide the backbone of a well balanced diet to optimise good health.  The entire Orgran range is wheat-free.  A wheat free diet has proven beneficial to many people with IBS.  Also, for those wanting to follow general principles of healthy eating, you can enjoy the benefits of alternative grains. Orgran products that are also low fat, and do not have added sucrose.  Orgran's great range of pastas, crispbreads, bread and baking mixes, breakfast cereals, biscuits and fruit snacks are a delicious inclusion in a nutritious diet.

Where can I get More Information?

Gastroenterological Society of Australia 
Tel (02) 9256 5455
Website: http://www.gesa.org.au/

Dietitian's Association of Australia :
http://www.daa.asn.au/ or 1800 812 942.  

Accredited Practising Dietitians specialising in gastrointestinal nutrition:
Sue Shepherd and Amanda Anderson. 
Phone:  03 9830 2252.