Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Symptoms and Treatment Options
What Does Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Mean?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that affects the function of the gut, leading to chronic discomfort and changes in bowel habits. It is considered a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning there are no visible structural abnormalities, but the digestive system does not work as it should. IBS is often influenced by a combination of diet, stress, gut microbiome imbalances, and lifestyle factors.
What Are Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Symptoms of IBS vary from person to person, but some of the most frequently reported issues include:
Abdominal pain or cramping – Often relieved after a bowel movement
Bloating and gas – Feeling uncomfortably full or experiencing excessive gas
Irregular bowel movements – Alternating between diarrhea (IBS-D) and constipation (IBS-C) or a mix of both (IBS-M)
Mucus in the stool – A sign of gut inflammation or irritation
Food intolerances – Sensitivity to certain foods that trigger digestive discomfort
Fatigue and brain fog – Digestive imbalances affecting energy and mental clarity
How a Holistic Nutritionist Can Help Identify IBS Triggers
Our holistic nutritionist, Sean takes a whole-body approach to identifying and managing IBS symptoms. Through personalized consultations, they assess dietary habits, lifestyle patterns, and potential underlying factors contributing to digestive distress. Some key areas they focus on include:
Food Sensitivities & Intolerances – Identifying common IBS triggers such as gluten, dairy, caffeine, and highly processed foods
Gut Microbiome Health – Assessing the balance of gut bacteria that influence digestion and inflammation
Stress & Nervous System Regulation – Exploring the gut-brain connection and how stress impacts digestion
Inflammatory Responses – Detecting potential inflammatory foods that exacerbate symptoms
Meal Timing & Eating Habits – Analyzing how eating patterns affect digestion and gut motility