Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are diseases of the intestine.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are diseases of the intestine. Both the diseases share common symptoms such as fatigue, distressing bowel movements, tummy pain, and the need to pass motions right away. However, IBD is a result of specific changes in the bowel wall, leading to swelling and sores. This is not seen in IBS. IBS is due to a dysfunction in the levels of chemicals released by the gut nerves, serotonin, and gastrin.
Patients with IBS often start developing symptoms after a bout of food poisoning, and these symptoms may continue for an indefinite period. Stress aggravates both IBD and IBS.
What is the treatment of IBS and IBD?
Modifying lifestyle and diet can bring about significant changes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Some of the changes include:
- Avoiding carbonated beverages and diet high in sugar
- Avoiding popcorn, nuts, and high-fiber food
- Drinking more liquids
- Eating smaller meals more often
- Avoiding lactose, which is present in dairy products
- Avoiding caffeine and legumes
- Cutting down on foods that make patients gassy or bloated
- Limiting or avoiding FODMAP’s, a type of sugar present in some fruits, vegetables, bread, and dairy products. The dietician will advise for the FODMAP diet.
- Reducing stress and anxiety
- Eating a regular balanced meal
- Cutting down on smoking because it may worsen symptoms
