Question

You're working with a college-aged female, with a sedentary lifestyle, who has been recently diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome,

How would you work with her to gain understanding in the link between diet and digestion?

Answer 1

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Usually seen in younger age groups less than 50years.

As my colleague is suffering from this problem, I will try to identify the triggering factors, risk factors and educate the treatment palm

Triggers

Symptoms of IBS can be triggered by :

• Food. The role of food allergy or intolerance in IBS isn't fully understood. A true food allergy rarely causes IBS. But many people have worse IBS symptoms when they eat or drink certain foods or beverages, including wheat, dairy products, citrus fruits, beans, cabbage, milk and carbonated drinks.
• Stress. Most people with IBS experience worse or more frequent signs and symptoms during periods of increased stress. But while stress may aggravate symptoms, it doesn't cause them.
• Hormones. Women are twice as likely to have IBS, which might indicate that hormonal changes play a role. Many women find that signs and symptoms are worse during or around their menstrual periods.

Risk factors

Many people have occasional signs and symptoms of IBS. But you're more likely to have the syndrome if you:

• Are young. IBS occurs more frequently in people under age 50.
• Are female. In the United States, IBS is more common among women. Estrogen therapy before or after menopause also is a risk factor for IBS.
• Have a family history of IBS. Genes may play a role, as may shared factors in a family's environment or a combination of genes and environment.
• Have a mental health problem. Anxiety, depression and other mental health issues are associated with IBS. A history of sexual, physical or emotional abuse also might be a risk factor.

Management

Finding ways to deal with stress may help prevent or ease symptoms of IBS. Consider trying:

• Counseling. A counselor can help you learn to modify or change your responses to stress. Studies have shown that psychotherapy can provide significant and long-lasting reduction of symptoms.
• Biofeedback. Electrical sensors help you receive information (feedback) on your body's functions. The feedback helps you focus on making subtle changes, such as relaxing certain muscles, to ease symptoms.
• Progressive relaxation exercises. These exercises help you relax muscles in your body, one by one. Start by tightening the muscles in your feet, then concentrate on slowly letting all of the tension go. Next, tighten and relax your calves. Continue until the muscles in your body, including those in your eyes and scalp, are relaxed.
• Mindfulness training. This stress-reduction technique helps you focus on being in the moment and letting go of worries and distractions.