How Does Diet and Stress Affect Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Source | American Gastroenterological Association 

Many people report that their symptoms occur following a meal or when they are under stress. No one is sure why this happens, but scientists have some clues.

Eating causes contractions of the colon. Normally, this response may cause an urge to have a bowel movement within 30 to 60 minutes after a meal. In people with IBS, the urge may come sooner and may be associated with pain, cramps and diarrhea.

The strength of the response is often related to the number of calories in a meal, and especially the amount of fat in a meal. Fat in any form (animal or vegetable) is a b stimulus of colonic contractions. Many foods contain fat, especially meats of all kinds, poultry skin, whole milk, cream cheese, butter, vegetable oil, margarine, shortening, avocados, and whipped toppings.

Stress also stimulates colonic spasms in people with IBS. This process is not completely understood, but scientists point out that the colon is controlled partly by the nervous system. Mental health counseling and stress reduction (relaxation training) can help relieve the symptoms of IBS. However, doctors are quick to note that this does not mean IBS is the result of a personality disorder. IBS is at least partly a disorder of colon motility and sensation.

Zelnorm Recall

Zelnorm (tegaserod maleate), a prescription medication used to treat “constipation predominant” Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) has been removed/recalled from the U.S. market at the request of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

Learn More: Zelnorm Recall