To view this page ensure that Adobe Flash Player version 11.1.0 or greater is installed.

FEATURE Beat the bowel Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a major problem in the UK. And with many going undiagnosed, it’s important you can spot the signs. T he number of sufferers is on the increase, the exact cause is unknown and it can be hugely debilitating; IBS has a lot to answer for. IBS, or its full name, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is triggered by various factors, stress, and poor diet and lifestyle being just some. But by taking a holistic approach, there is much you can do to restore your gut to better health. “The cause of IBS is still not well understood and it appears that there are many factors that lead to its development. Many with IBS can relate the condition starting with a period of stress in their lives. Unfortunately, stress has become part of many individuals’ daily lives, which may provide some explanation to why the condition is on the increase,” explained Claire Barnes, Nutritional Therapist at Protexin, which has the Bio-Kult and Lepicol brands. Jenny Bodenham, Nutritional Therapist at Higher Nature, added: “IBS is one of the most common gastrointestinal (GI) complaints. One in five people in the UK are estimated to suffer from IBS, with women thought to be more affected than men.” Caroline Harmer, Education Director at Renew Life, agreed, adding: “IBS is one of the most common gastrointestinal conditions that affect around 20 per cent of people living in the UK. Although this figure may be higher because many people with IBS do not report their symptoms to their GP.” If you are concerned you suffer, your doctor will have to diagnose IBS after ruling out other conditions, such as coeliac disease and anaemia. IBS defined Try this ★ Bio-Ku lt ★ Natura l Support Health Practice IB ★ Renew L Colon Ca ife Ultimate Flora re ★ Udo’s C ho Enzyme ice Digestive Gold ★ Nature s Aid Pro-30 M ax “IBS can be categorised into three main types, IBS diarrhoea, IBS constipation and IBS mixed. It is believed that IBS is just as much a neurological condition as it is a digestive condition, as many with the symptoms also appear to have issues with anxiety, stress and depression,” Claire explained. “As we know, there is a strong link between the gut and the brain, so it is difficult to establish what may have occurred first. “As there are so many factors leading to its development and the condition varies with each individual, it is difficult to establish the cause. Recent research has shown that many with the condition have an imbalance in their gut flora, having less beneficial strains and more harmful ones.” Aimee Benbow, Technical Services Manager at Viridian Nutrition, added: “It is common for cases to present very differently. There is not yet a biological marker that can be used to diagnose IBS, however, doctors can distinguish between four subtypes of IBS through symptom based criteria.” Sort the stress Getting stress in check is critical to ease symptoms. “One of the major factors involved in the development and exacerbation of IBS symptoms is stress,” Jenny commented. “Herbs such as rhodiola are very supportive during times of stress and help the body to adapt. The B vitamins, and in particular, pantothenic acid (B5), also show support during times of stress. Relaxation techniques and gentle exercise may also be beneficial.” 18 ibs.indd 18 www.mynaturallifestyle.com FOR MORE TIPS TO LIVE a NATURAL LIFESTYLE LOG ON TO www.mynaturallifestyle.com 18/01/2017 12:22