Debunking Myths About Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
In this latest installment of our Medical Myths series, we’re addressing common misconceptions about Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Many people misunderstand what causes IBS, what helps with the symptoms, and what lifestyle changes can make a difference.
Written by Annie Lennon on April 11, 2022 — Fact checked by Alexandra Sanfins, Ph.D.
IBS is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that affects around 11% of adults worldwide. It can cause a range of symptoms, such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Excess gas
- Bloating
- Sudden, urgent bathroom urges
- Changes in bowel habits
Although IBS is common, it’s still widely misunderstood. To clear up some of the confusion, we spoke with two experts in the field, Dr. Ashkan Farhadi, a gastroenterologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center, and Dr. Mollie J. Jackson, a gastroenterologist at the University of Kansas Health System.
IBS Myths vs. Facts
1. We Know What Causes IBS
Myth: We fully understand what causes IBS.
Fact: We don’t know exactly what causes IBS yet. While certain foods like dairy or spicy foods can trigger symptoms, they don’t cause IBS. Dr. Farhadi mentioned that some forms, like post-infectious IBS, can be triggered by bacteria like Campylobacter jejuni, but the exact cause remains unclear.
2. Stress Causes IBS
Myth: Stress alone causes IBS.
Fact: While stress can influence the symptoms of IBS, it doesn’t directly cause it. Dr. Farhadi explained that both people with and without IBS experience stress, but it’s how we manage stress that affects whether or not we have IBS symptoms. Stress can change the structure of the gut, making it more sensitive even after the stressful event has passed.
3. Doctors Only Diagnose IBS Through Fancy Tests
Myth: IBS diagnosis requires expensive or complex tests.
Fact: IBS can be diagnosed with high accuracy (97%) using the Rome IV criteria, which doesn’t require fancy tests. It’s based on symptoms like abdominal pain, changes in stool frequency or form, and whether the pain gets better or worse with bowel movements. Dr. Jackson explained that there are subtypes of IBS, like diarrhea-predominant or constipation-predominant, but bloating isn’t required for diagnosis.
4. IBS is Curable
Myth: There’s a cure for IBS.
Fact: Unfortunately, there’s no cure for IBS. However, it can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications tailored to each individual. Dr. Farhadi mentioned that the management is often simple and inexpensive, including fiber, probiotics, reassurance, and exercise. Medication can help relieve symptoms, but it may not provide a permanent fix.
5. IBS is Uncommon and Doesn’t Affect Quality of Life
Myth: IBS is rare and doesn’t affect daily life much.
Fact: IBS is actually quite common, affecting 10–15% of people in North America. Dr. Jackson pointed out that it can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and even lead to increased healthcare costs. Some patients report that they would give up 10–15 years of their life expectancy for a quick cure for IBS.
6. All Types of Exercise Help IBS
Myth: Any exercise is good for IBS.
Fact: While exercise can be helpful for IBS, not all types are equally beneficial. Dr. Farhadi explained that intense, competitive exercise or weightlifting can actually add stress to the body, which could worsen IBS symptoms. For example, long-distance running may lead to “runner’s run,” or diarrhea after running for long periods.
7. Meditation Helps with IBS
Myth: Meditation is the cure for IBS.
Fact: While research is still ongoing, some studies suggest that meditation can help improve IBS symptoms by reducing stress and improving gut function. Dr. Jackson explained that gut-directed psychotherapies, including meditation, can influence the brain-gut connection and help manage symptoms. Dr. Farhadi also recommends “mindless meditation,” which could include activities like walking, to help relieve stress.
8. Cutting Out Lactose Helps IBS
Myth: Lactose is the main trigger for IBS.
Fact: There’s no conclusive link between IBS and lactose intolerance. While many people with IBS report milk intolerance, it’s more likely that some people with IBS also have lactose intolerance. Dr. Jackson mentioned that the low FODMAP diet, which limits certain foods like dairy, may help some people, but it’s not a universal solution.
9. Natural Treatments Work for IBS
Myth: Natural remedies always work for IBS.
Fact: Some natural treatments, like peppermint oil and cardamom, have shown some promise in relieving IBS symptoms, but research is limited. Dr. Farhadi pointed out that natural remedies can be effective, but you should always consult a doctor before trying them.
10. Fasting Relieves IBS
Myth: Fasting completely relieves IBS symptoms.
Fact: While fasting might temporarily reduce symptoms, it’s not a long-term solution. Dr. Farhadi explained that reducing meal frequency might help lessen symptoms, but it’s not a cure for IBS. Fasting can be good for other purposes, like weight loss, but it’s not a reliable way to manage IBS symptoms.
11. Fiber Helps with IBS
Myth: Fiber always helps IBS symptoms.
Fact: Fiber can help, but it depends on the type of IBS. For those with constipation, fiber can be useful. But if you have IBS with diarrhea, too much fiber could worsen symptoms, causing bloating and gas. Dr. Farhadi recommended using water-soluble fiber like psyllium, paired with probiotics like Greek yogurt.
12. There’s an IBS Diet
Myth: There’s a one-size-fits-all IBS diet.
Fact: There’s no specific, universal diet for IBS. What works for one person may not work for another. Dr. Farhadi emphasized that diets for IBS are individualized and dynamic, and people may have different triggers at different times. If you’re uncertain, a gastroenterology dietician can help guide you through an elimination diet to figure out your triggers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What exactly causes IBS?
Currently, the exact cause of IBS is unknown, but it’s believed to be linked to issues with gut motility, changes in gut microbiota, and a heightened sensitivity of the gut.
Q2: Is there a cure for IBS?
No, there is no cure for IBS, but it can be managed effectively with a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and stress management techniques.
Q3: How is IBS diagnosed?
IBS is diagnosed based on the Rome IV criteria, which involves assessing symptoms like abdominal pain, changes in bowel movements, and the frequency of these symptoms.
Q4: Can meditation really help IBS?
Yes, meditation and mindfulness practices may help manage stress, which in turn can reduce IBS symptoms. The brain-gut connection plays a significant role in the condition, and relaxation techniques can improve how the gut responds.
Q5: Should I avoid dairy if I have IBS?
There’s no definitive link between IBS and lactose intolerance, but many people with IBS find relief by reducing dairy. The best approach is to identify your specific triggers with the help of a healthcare provider.
Q6: Does exercise help IBS?
Certain types of exercise, like moderate walking or yoga, can help manage IBS by reducing stress. However, intense exercise, like long-distance running or weightlifting, may actually trigger symptoms in some people.
Q7: Is there an IBS-specific diet?
There’s no one-size-fits-all diet for IBS, but the low FODMAP diet is commonly used to help manage symptoms. It’s important to work with a dietitian to figure out which foods work best for you.
Q8: Can IBS be managed naturally?
Some natural treatments, like peppermint oil and cardamom, can provide symptom relief, but they are not guaranteed to work for everyone. Always check with a doctor before trying new remedies.
Q9: Does fasting help with IBS symptoms?
Fasting may temporarily reduce IBS symptoms, but it’s not a long-term solution. It’s more important to focus on a balanced diet and stress management for effective symptom control.
In Conclusion
IBS is a complex condition that varies from person to person. While there’s no cure, it can be managed effectively with the right approach. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that works for you. It may take some trial and error, but with the right care, you can lead a fulfilling life while managing IBS.