Everything you need to know about irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Eléonore de Maurissens
Reading time: 3 minutes
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Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as 'spastic colon', is a chronic condition that has no serious consequences but is very bothersome. This condition causes a lot of gastrointestinal symptoms. However, by changing a number of eating habits, you can successfully relieve the symptoms.


Irritable bowel syndrome is very common: in Belgium, about 15% of adults suffer from this condition. Women are affected twice as often as men, and this syndrome is mainly seen in young people (between 20 and 40 years old). Those who struggle with anxiety or are regularly under stress also seem to be at higher risk.1,2

 

Irritable bowel, more than just a gastrointestinal disorder

The primary symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are gastrointestinal complaints. These involve chronic abdominal pain, intestinal transit disorders (diarrhea, constipation), and bloating. In addition, irritable bowel syndrome can be accompanied by headaches, fatigue, or even muscle pain.2,3

Irritable bowel syndrome has no serious consequences but can be very painful2,3

How can you experience less discomfort from irritable bowel syndrome?

Unfortunately, scientists do not yet fully understand the origins of this functional disorder (which means there is no visible damage to the body and organs). There is no "cure," although various avenues are being explored in the research world (such as the role of the microbiome or certain specific proteins).3
Treatment is mainly based on solutions to reduce pain and discomfort. Identifying and removing foods that are poorly digested from one's diet is a first step, which is often successful. Furthermore, behavioral therapy (to better cope with stress and anxiety) and lifestyle changes (better sleep, relaxation techniques, physical exercise, etc.) can also help.3,4

 

The FODMAP diet

If gastrointestinal symptoms persist despite a healthy diet, it is advisable to follow a diet low in FODMAPs (which stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols) for 2 to 6 weeks. FODMAPs are sugars that can be poorly digested, which may cause them to accumulate in the small intestine. This approach successfully reduces digestive complaints in 75% of cases.5

  • Foods rich in FODMAPs include: eggplants, onions, garlic, certain types of fruit (apples, mangoes, peaches, etc.), most dairy products, certain grains (wheat, rye, barley), etc.
  • Some foods, on the other hand, are low in FODMAPs, such as: certain types of fruit (bananas, grapes, etc.), hard cheeses, tofu, plant-based dairy alternatives, eggs, chicken, fish, oats, rice, etc.5

 

Do you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome? What changes have you made to your diet? Tell us your story on our Facebook and Instagram pages!

Scientific references

  1. DOMINO: Diet or medication for patients with irritable bowel syndrome (KCE-16001). KCE.
  2. Irritable bowel syndrome. Vidal, Updated: May 11, 2020. https://www.vidal.fr/maladies/estomac-intestins/syndrome-colon-irritable.html
  3. Fuming with anger: What is irritable bowel syndrome? INSERM, September 14, 2021.
  4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Cleveland Clinic, last reviewed on 11/16/2023.
  5. Low FODMAP Diet. Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio.

Product mentioned in this article

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