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What is Irritable bowel Syndrome?

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The term Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is used to describe a number of different gut symptoms. Unfortunately there is no specific diagnostic test and IBS is therefore usually diagnosed by ruling out other causes.

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A diagnosis of IBS should be considered only if there is abdominal pain or discomfort that is either relieved by defaecation or associated with a change in bowel habit. This should be accompanied by at least two of the following four symptoms:

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• altered stool passage (straining, urgency, incomplete evacuation)

• abdominal bloating (more common in women than men), distension, tension or hardness

• symptoms made worse by eating

• passage of mucus.

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Diet and IBS

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In some cases simple dietary changes and following a well-balanced diet can help to relieve IBS symptoms. 

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For many people, an elimination style diet called the low FODMAP diet is necessary in order to achieve significant symptom relief. The low FODMAP diet has been shown to improve symptoms in 75% of people with IBS and is therefore one of the most effective treatments for IBS.

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FODMAPs are types of short-chain carbohydrates that aren’t absorbed properly in the gut. When poorly absorbed they cause the production of gas via fermentation in the bowel which can trigger symptoms in people with IBS. FODMAPs are found naturally in many types of food and food additives.

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The low FODMAP diet is completed in 3 stages, the elimination phase, the reintroduction phase and the personalisation phase. A minimum of 2 appointments are required to complete the diet.

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If you want to enquire about whether the low FODMAP diet is right for you get in touch or complete the short questionnaire at the bottom of this webpage.

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