April is recognised worldwide as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Awareness Month, drawing attention to a condition that affects up to 5 – 10%1 of individuals globally, and around 4%2 of the Australian population. While IBS does not shorten a person’s lifespan, the challenges it presents significantly impact quality of life.
Simple daily activities such as socialising, travelling, and dining out can be a minefield as people navigate the symptoms of IBS which typically include abdominal pain and discomfort such as bloating, gas, and urgency, and changes in stool texture including constipation, diarrhea, or both.
Beyond the physical manifestations, studies3 have shown that individuals with IBS are more likely to experience anxiety and depression4.
According to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders5, approximately 20-40% of all visits to a gastroenterologist are due to IBS symptoms. Two in three IBS sufferers are female, and it is one of the most burdensome chronic ailments reported by patients.
How diet can help reduce the symptoms of IBS
IBS sufferers are often advised to restrict their consumption of specific dietary carbohydrates called FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols), and to eat a Mediterranean diet to reduce their symptoms2.
Research6 has also shown that supplementation with psyllium fibre helps to decrease gut inflammation and offers physiological assistance in the management of IBS.
Psyllium husk is soluble, has high water-holding capacity, and is non-fermenting / mildly fermenting so is highly beneficial for all types of IBS due to its bowel regulatory effect – useful for both constipation and diarrhea6
Bonvit, one of Australia’s leading brands in health foods, manufactures psyllium products here in Australia to the highest standards. They have been sourcing and importing high grade psyllium husk from India for over half a century, combining decades of expertise and product knowledge to produce premium quality psyllium husk products under their own label.
Their psyllium7 products are listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods including Bonvit Psyllium Husk Natural Orange Flavour* (AUST L 206795) and Bonvit Psyllium Fibre 550mg Capsules* (AUST L 138003). *Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
Bonvit Psyllium Husk Natural Orange Flavour is a great way to help maintain overall health and bowel regularity with healthy soluble fibre. Psyllium husk is one of the most gentle and effective sources of soluble fibre found in nature. As a natural mucilaginous bulk-forming agent with a smooth texture, it absorbs water to help promote gentle and free bowel evacuation.
According to a recent edition of AGA’s Gastroenterology8, psyllium husk positively alters gut microbiota, decreases inflammation, and has bowel-regulatory action, paving the way for the management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
How is IBS diagnosed?
The symptoms of IBS can look like other illnesses such as inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, coeliac disease, or a lactose intolerance, so it is important to seek medical advice to clarify your condition9.
To diagnose IBS9, your healthcare provider will typically undertake a full medical check-up including blood and stool tests, and possibly a colonoscopy and/or a gastroscopy to check your stomach or bowel under sedation.
The aim of IBS Awareness Month is to destigmatise the condition, promote understanding, and offer compassion to those living with IBS. Bonvit Australia recognises the importance of educating the public about IBS and empowering individuals who may be struggling to find support from family and friends. With education and advocacy, they hope to encourage those affected by IBS to seek help, find community, and live their best lives. Anyone who wants to offer their support can post to their social media using #IBSAwarenessMonth and #IBSDilemma.
SheSociety is a site for the women of Australia to share our stories, our experiences, shared learnings and opportunities to connect.
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