April marks IBS Awareness Month, aimed at promoting the understanding of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, one of the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal issues[1] affecting millions and millions of people in the UK[2].In fact, IBS is an issue that can continually challenge sufferers.
Research by PrecisionBiotics – the smart brains behind a range of targeted, and scientifically-studied probiotic supplements has found that 99% of those who suffer from IBS say that gut health has an impact on quality of life.[3]
The interesting data has also found that:
- 72% of those suffering from IBS experience bloating
- 46% suffer from constipation
- 61% have stomach pain and cramps
- 53% experience diarrhoea.
Excess gas, flatulence, a sluggish feeling and stomach noises are also common problems experienced by IBS sufferers.
Explaining IBS, Dr Emma Derbyshire, nutritionist and advisor to PrecisionBiotics® says: “IBS is a common disorder of the digestive system.[4] Defined as the presence of abdominal pain or discomfort with altered bowel habits,[5] the exact cause of IBS is unknown[6] but certain lifestyle habits can trigger digestive issues, as we’ll see below.
“In short, IBS disrupts how your brain and your bowel interact. In fact, there’s good reason why the gut is often called the ‘second brain’, because the gut and brain are interlinked by various pathways and they’re constantly communicating. As a result, stress and IBS often go hand in hand, with stress often a feature of IBS in sufferers. So much so, that 47% of IBS sufferers say general worries affect their gut health. Evidence also suggests that stress may contribute to both the development and worsening of IBS symptoms.[7] More research is needed.”
To be more specific, over a third (37.6%) of the UK population suffers a ‘disorder of the gut-brain interaction’ such as IBS, which research has confirmed has ‘significant effects on quality of life, health and wellness.[8]
Due to the gut-brain connection, IBS doesn’t just impact the gut, as the PrecisionBiotics data has found. A high 71% of those suffering from this digestive condition say:
- They have less energy
- 51% feel that they can’t eat what they want
- 34% feel less confident
- 35% feel as though they don’t want to exercise.
Only 22% of people with IBS say they have consistent energy and just 37% have regular and pain-free bowel movements.
Dr Nisa Aslam, GP with a special interest in nutrition and advisor to PrecisionBiotics® says: “IBS can be extremely stressful and unfortunately, there is no quick fix. Instead, it needs to be managed. This management is very personal and different people may find that various triggers impact their gut and make symptoms worse.”
The PrecisionBiotics data has found that:
- 58% of IBS sufferers say bad dietary habits trigger poor gut health
- 46% blame fatty foods for IBS issues
- 37% said too much sugar was an issue with IBS
- 56% say feel their IBS is caused by not drinking enough water throughout the day.
As we know, stress can also affect gut health. Knowing how to manage IBS and support the gut is pivotal, to help reduce symptoms and make life more comfortable.
3 ways to manage good gut health
#1. Try PrecisionBiotics: Did you know, that supporting your gut with probiotics, also known as beneficial bacteria, can help you manage gut health challenges including IBS? However only 22% of those questioned in the PrecisionBiotics® real-world research poll take a probiotic supplement.
FACT: Probiotics have the potential to transform our health and wellbeing. In fact, Bifidobacterium longum 35624 is a specific bacteria recognised by the World Gastroenterology Organisation as being the most effective probiotic for the relief of IBS.
A placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial at the University of Manchester showed that a daily dose of 108 colony-forming units (CFU) helps relieve bloating, abdominal pain and gas, as well as improved bowel function.[9] More research is needed.
Plus, Lactobacillus LA-5, which is usually used in combination with Bifidobacterium BB-12 has been shown to help reduce diarrhoea and ease IBS symptoms[10] too.
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PrecisionBiotics® was founded by scientists. The range includes a range of targeted formulations, scientifically studied to help support the gut microbiome and help address specific challenges while supporting gut health.
The range, explained…
Alflorex™ Original is a Daily Gut Health Supplement, packed with one billion (10^9) live Bifidobacterium longum 35624™ bacteria – a clinically studied strain which mothers pass to their infants. These naturally occurring bacterial cultures, originally sourced from a healthy gut,[11] are scientifically proven to survive through the gut.[12],[13],[14] Just take one small capsule daily, any time of day, with or without food. Alflorex Original is also available in a strawberry and banana chewable tablet format.
For children age three years and up, Alflorex® Children 30 Powder Sachets deliver 1 x 10⁸ (1 billion Colony Forming Units (CFU) of live Bifidobacterium longum 35624™ in an easy to dissolve powder with a hint of vanilla flavour.
Alflorex + Calcium combines all the benefits of 10^9 live Bifidobacterium longum 35624™ with 120mg of calcium, to helps support digestive health. Plus, Alflorex Dual Action is packed with essential ingredients such as calcium and a specialised blend of B vitamins is included to help reduce fatigue, contains around 1 billion bacteria (or 1×10^9 colony forming units) from strain 35624™ and strain 1714™. These are both from the esteemed Bifidobacterium longum family, so the formula ensures a diverse and balanced gut microbiome.
As well as the Alflorex range, PrecisionBiotics also offer various other gut health supplements including:
Daily Calm® Emotional Balance. This supplement helps support relaxation and emotions as it contains 1 billion colony forming units (CFU) of clinically proven Bifidobacterium longum 1714™, enhanced by 30mg of saffron extract to contribute to emotional balance and relaxation as well as 1.4mg of vitamin B6, which support normal psychological function.
Zenflore Daily Mental Wellness Supplement: This supplement contains 10^9 live Bifidobacterium longum strain 1714™ alongside a powerful blend of vitamins B6 and B12 both contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue and Pantothenic acid which contributes to normal mental performance.
PrecisionBiotics® Daily Good Bacteria Food Supplement. This been developed for those looking for a daily food supplement or support during and after antibiotic use, and is also suitable for ongoing use. It delivers 4 billion CFU of the scientifically studied Bifidobacterium BB-12® and Lactobacillus LA-5® bacterial strains, which have both been shown to support IBS symptoms. This supplement also contains fructooligosaccharides (FOS) which acts as food for bacteria in the gut.
#2. Eat healthy amounts of fibre: Although 49% of Brits do try to eat more fibre, there’s still a long way to go, because while adults should aim for a minimum of 30g a day, the UK average is just 20g[15] .
Suzie Sawyer, a clinical nutritionist and adviser to PrecisionBiotics® explains: “Fibre is found in foods such as fruit, vegetables, nuts, legumes and whole grains. It’s great for gut health and for supporting the gut microbiome- the trillions of bacteria that live in the gut. As a prebiotic, fibre provides the fuel to feed friendly bacteria.”
FACT: A lower fibre diet can be beneficial for diarrhoea whereas a higher fibre intake can be beneficial for constipation.[16]
Suzie Sawyer continues: “Be careful of foods that can produce gas in the gut[17] too. Cutting your intake of cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts and legumes such as peas, beans and lentils will help reduce wind and bloating, which are common symptoms of IBS.
#3. Focus on stress relief: As we’ve noted, stress can really trigger IBS symptoms in those who suffer. However, stress and anxiety can also lead to poor sleep, and then unhealthy food choices,[18] which in turn can affect gut health and trigger IBS symptoms.
Dr Emma Derbyshire explains: “Researchers have identified a link to between irregular sleep patterns, which have been linked to a host of health issues as well as harmful gut bacteria[19]which can then trigger unwanted gut symptoms.”
It’s important to take time away from work and other stressors, to wind down. Yoga and Pilates can help relax your body, or try simply spending time with the family and friends that relax you.
Suzie Sawyer adds: “IBS is renowned for the disruptive impact it can have on daily life. As we’ve seen from the research, it can impact not just the gut, but also mood generally. So, it’s only right that the right steps are taken to help reduce the negative impact.”
Last word
Whether you suffer from IBS yourself, or know a friend or family member who does, this IBS awareness month, it’s time to get to grips with this digestive condition, to make life more comfortable and enjoyable.
