IBS is a functional chronic gastrointestinal disorder that affects the abdominals and
bowel functions. It often results in abdominal pain. Some symptoms I experience are feeling bloated, sever dehydration and migraines. In the days before and shortly after I was diagnosed, I had a big learning curve as over time I realised this involved a complete lifestyle change. Below are some discoveries I have made along the way that have
helped me to understand this disorder and have a better chance of finding balance.
1. Canada has one of the higheset rates of IBS in the world.
According to the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation, 5 million Canadians are currently suffering from IBS. That’s 14% of the entire population of this country.
2. IBS affects more women than men.
Three times more likely, actually. Which means that it is extremely likely that someone you know if also living with IBS.
3. The exact cause of IBS not known.
It is believe those living with IBS have a hypersensitive colon. There are also findings
that sensitivity is related to the connection between the brain, gut and colon.
4. Stress does not cause IBS.
But it does make it worse, and this I am speaking from experience. So your loved
ones who are asking if it’s all in your head, are incorrect(and it’s ok to get frustrated),
but not completely so, for stress does come from the mind.
5. Balance is key.
Emphasis on BALANCE. This means balance in rest, work, food and overall lifestyle.
I have learned that while some foods are not triggers, over indulgence can lead to symptoms.
6. Diet is important.
Diet meaning the food you put on your plate and into your body. There WILL be a process of trial and error and I have found that loosely following FODMAPS has
helped tremendously. I will cover this more in a later post.
7. Drink LOTS of water.
I have noticed that my symptoms include dehydration and that this dehydration creates
a domino effect for the rest of my symptoms. While water will not cure me instantly, keeping hydrated and ‘peeing it out’ as I call it, do help me feel better than when I don’t.
8. Above All. Listen.
Every body is beautiful and different in its own right. Listen to your body when it tells you something it doesn’t like, listen when it rejoices when it loves what you have fed it. Also listen to when it is telling you it is tired, or needs fresh air. I have found this to be
my best tool in living with this condition.
I will repeat that these are things I have learned through experience. I am not a doctor
or dietitian. I do hope however that you find some aid in this post and start finding your balance.
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