Experiencing diarrhea or constipation individually can be pretty uncomfortable, but dealing with both at once? That's a whole new level of unpleasantness. It's like your stomach can't make up its mind, leaving you stuck in this frustrating and painful limbo. Whether you're running to the bathroom or feeling blocked up, it's a double dose of discomfort that can really throw your day off track.

If you're experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation, you might be dealing with a condition known as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). And this read is made for you.
 

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

You know how sometimes your tummy feels all weird and unpredictable? Well, that's what happens with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by a cluster of symptoms that often disrupt daily life. Individuals with IBS experience recurring abdominal pain and alterations in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both. ¹What distinguishes IBS from other gastrointestinal conditions is the absence of visible damage or disease in the digestive tract, making diagnosis and management a complex challenge.
 

What Causes IBS?

Scientists haven't pinpointed one exact reason, but they think a few factors might be involved:²

1. Muscle Troubles: Your intestines may contract too hard or for too long, causing issues like gas, bloating, or diarrhea.
2. Nervous System Problems: Your gut has its own little nervous system, and sometimes it becomes oversensitive or confused in its communication with your brain.
3. Bad Bugs and Infections: Remember that time you had a severe stomach flu? In some cases, such infections can trigger IBS. A previous history of infections can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
4. Stress from Way Back When: Turns out, stressful experiences, especially in your youth, can increase the likelihood of IBS later on. It's as if your gut remembers all that stress and acts up when you're older.
5. Changes in Gut Buddies: The diversity of bacteria in your gut is affected by your diet and lifestyle. A diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods promotes a healthy gut microbiome by supporting beneficial bacteria. Conversely, diets high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can foster the growth of harmful bacteria, potentially leading to dysbiosis—a gut microbiota imbalance linked to IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders.
    

What are the 3 Types of IBS?

There are primarily three types of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), each characterized by a predominant pattern of bowel habits and symptoms. These types include:³

IBS with Constipation (IBS-C)

Individuals with IBS with Constipation (IBS-C) primarily experience constipation as their main symptom. They live a life of infrequent bathroom visits, tricky stools, and a nagging feeling of not being fully relieved. People in this category treat each bathroom break like a slow and steady marathon. They primarily experience constipation as their predominant symptom. Some individuals may also experience abdominal discomfort or pain, bloating, and gas.

IBS with Diarrhea (IBS-D)

Individuals with this type of IBS are characterized by frequent episodes of diarrhea as their predominant symptom. With urgent bathroom dashes, loose stools, and a perpetual feeling of restroom urgency, they're always on the move. But it's not just about speed – they've got abdominal discomfort, bloating, and gas to keep them company on their bathroom trips.

Mixed IBS (IBS-M)

People who are suffering from Mixed IBS are literally living double lives. One moment they're stuck in traffic, the next they're racing to the finish line. With symptoms that fluctuate in intensity, including abdominal pain, bloating, and gas, they're always prepared for whatever comes their way. Together, they experience the twists and turns of their IBS sickness.

These subtypes of IBS are classified based on the predominant bowel habits experienced by individuals. However, it's important to note that symptoms can vary widely between individuals and may change over time. Additionally, some individuals may not neatly fit into one subtype and may experience a combination of symptoms characteristic of multiple types of IBS. An accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan are essential for effectively managing IBS and improving quality of life.

What to Do with IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a complex and often frustrating condition. However, with the right combination of medical treatment, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and support, it is possible to manage its symptoms effectively and improve quality of life. Remember to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns.

Managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, stress management techniques, and sometimes medication. Here's a comprehensive guide on what to do if you have IBS:

1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you suspect you have IBS or are experiencing symptoms consistent with the condition, it's essential to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough evaluation, rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, and provide an accurate diagnosis and advise on definitive management.
2. Educate Yourself: Learn about IBS, including its symptoms, triggers, and treatment options. Understanding your condition empowers you to make informed decisions about managing your symptoms.
3. Identify Triggers: Keep a food and symptom diary to identify triggers that worsen your symptoms. Common triggers include certain foods (such as dairy, gluten, caffeine, and spicy foods), stress, hormonal changes, and medications.
4. Make Dietary Modifications: Once you've identified trigger foods, consider making dietary modifications to alleviate symptoms. Some people find relief by following a low-FODMAP diet.
   
   FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols, which are short-chain carbohydrates (sugars) that the small intestine absorbs poorly.
5. Eat Regular Meals: Maintain regular meal times and avoid skipping meals, as irregular eating patterns can trigger symptoms. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also help prevent digestive discomfort.
6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, which can worsen constipation symptoms. Limit or avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they can irritate the digestive tract.
7. Manage Stress: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate IBS symptoms. Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce stress levels and improve symptom control.
8. Get Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, swimming, or yoga. Exercise helps promote regular bowel movements, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
9. Practice Good Bathroom Habits: Establish regular bathroom habits and avoid holding in bowel movements. Allow yourself adequate time for bowel movements, and don't strain during defecation.

Aside from these lifestyle changes, you may also consider adding a probiotic supplement to your daily regimen. While there are multiple probiotic supplement options to choose from, not all of them are created equal. Some brands offer supplements that come in different doses and use multiple probiotic strains.

So, if you’re looking for a high-quality supplement that can provide you the probiotics you need, look no further than Biome^® Gut Care.

Together with proper diet and exercise, Biome^® Gut Care may help boost your well-being and reduce your risk for certain diseases. It contains 5 billion active CFUs of a probiotic called Saccharomyces boulardii that’s known to help reduce frequency and duration of gastrointestinal illnesses.

Saccharomyces boulardii are known for providing various benefits such as promoting a healthy intestinal ecology, assisting in the improvement of lactose malabsorption, improving digestion, and boosting the body's natural resistance against intestinal infections.⁴

Ask your doctor about the proper administration and intake of this supplement before taking it. Ideally, take one (1) capsule of BIOME^® Gut Care per day with your meals. After use, store the supplements in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

MAHALAGANG PAALALA: Ang BIOME^® Gut Care ay hindi gamot at hindi dapat gamiting panggamot sa anumang uri ng sakit.