Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A problem of modern society

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a gastrointestinal disorder that is an increasingly common problem today. Although IBS is not considered a life-threatening disease and does not cause permanent physical damage, it can dramatically affect the daily functioning and quality of life of those who have it.

In this blog, we will explore irritable bowel syndrome as a growing problem in modern society, its symptoms, causes, and the most effective ways to establish balance.

What are the symptoms of IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder, which means it occurs when the intestines do not function in their usual, healthy rhythm, even though there are no visible physical damages or inflammations of the intestinal mucosa.

IBS is usually diagnosed based on characteristic symptoms that are chronically repeated:

• Abdominal pain, cramps, and sharp pain in the stomach (which often subside after bowel movements).
• Sudden changes in bowel movements (frequent diarrhea, persistent constipation, or alternating between them).
• Intense bloating, gas, and rumbling in the stomach.
• A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying after going to the toilet.

Why is IBS a problem of modern society?

IBS has become a significant problem in the modern era, and experts agree that it is a direct consequence of the way we live today:

• Stress: The brain and intestines are directly connected by the so-called "brain-gut axis". Social and work pressures, a fast pace, and chronic stress directly change bowel motility and cause painful cramps.
• Poor diet: The modern menu is overloaded with high-calorie and highly processed fast food, and at the same time drastically depleted in dietary fiber and key nutrients. This creates an imbalance in the intestinal flora (microbiome) which is a trigger for IBS.
• Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle and prolonged sitting at the computer slow down the metabolism and intestinal peristalsis, which further aggravates symptoms like constipation and bloating.

How to deal with irritable bowel syndrome?

Although there is no single "magic pill" that forever solves irritable bowel syndrome, a combination of different strategies brings excellent results and restores control over the body.

1. Changing your diet

Reviewing what you put into your body is the first and most important step. It is recommended to keep a "food diary" to identify triggers. The most common culprits for worsening symptoms are carbonated drinks, caffeine, alcohol, excessive dairy products, and high-fat fried foods. For many patients, the so-called "FODMAP" diet (avoiding certain fermentable carbohydrates) brings huge relief.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and stress control

Managing stress is half the treatment of IBS. Deep breathing techniques, yoga, and regular sleep calm the nervous system, which is directly reflected in the calming of the intestines. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps patients change their reaction pattern to stress and fear of symptoms.

3. Increasing physical activity

Regular, moderate physical activity, such as walking for 30 minutes every day, cycling, or swimming, "wakes up" sleepy intestines, improves digestion, and stimulates the release of endorphins (natural painkillers).

Medicines and best supplements for an irritable bowel

In acute phases, doctors can prescribe antispasmodics (to relax cramps), laxatives, or even antidepressants. However, the basis of long-term treatment is restoring the intestinal flora. Probiotics and fiber have proven to be the most effective and safest solution.

Based on the experiences of our users and clinical studies, we highlight the best preparations from Apoteka Online to calm an irritable bowel: