Latest news with #IBSAwarenessMonth
Hindustan Times
28-04-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Indian diet trap for IBS: Foods that could be making your gut health worse
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder affecting approximately 7% of the Indian population. This functional gastrointestinal disorder manifests through symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas and irregular bowel movements—including diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Pariksha Rao, Director-Nutrition and Medical Affairs at The Good Bug, shared, 'Stress and sleep deprivation can trigger or worsen IBS symptoms. Unlike other digestive diseases, IBS doesn't cause physical damage to the digestive tract, but significantly impacts quality of life due to its disruption of the brain-gut connection.' April is marked as IBS Awareness Month, aiming to spread more knowledge about this condition. Awareness is key, as many people suffer without realising they have IBS or what they can do to manage it. Pariksha Rao said, 'Despite its prevalence in India many suffer without proper diagnosis or management strategies. Modern lifestyles, increasing stress levels and changing dietary patterns have contributed to rising cases across the country. There's also increasing evidence that IBS is closely linked to the gut microbiome and the gut-brain axis — the two-way communication system between our brain and digestive system. When this system is out of balance, it can make the gut overly sensitive or change how the muscles in the intestines move, causing IBS symptoms.' Diet plays a crucial role in managing IBS. Pariksha Rao revealed, 'Indian food is often rich in spices, fiber, and fermented ingredients, which can either help or harm those with IBS, depending on how the body reacts. Traditional diets may offer some relief, but modern diets — which are increasingly full of processed foods, sugar, and fats — can make symptoms worse.' She explained, 'One of the major triggers for IBS is food that is high in FODMAPs [Fermentable Oligosaccharides (e.g. fructans and galacto-oligosaccharides) Disaccharides (e.g. lactose) Monosaccharides (e.g. excess fructose) and Polyols (e.g. sorbitol and mannitol)] — short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. Common FODMAP foods in the Indian diet include garlic, onions and fruits like apples. These foods ferment in the gut, creating gas and causing bloating, pain and irregular bowel movements.' The expert added, 'Caffeine and carbonated drinks are also triggers for many IBS patients. They can stimulate the gut too much and lead to diarrhea or gas. Artificial sweeteners like sorbitol, xylitol, and mannitol — often found in sugar-free products — are also known to cause bloating and discomfort because they are not fully absorbed in the gut.' Pariksha Rao suggested, 'A balanced diet, rich in the right kind of fiber and low in irritants, can make a big difference. Probiotics — found in yogurt, kefir, or supplements — can help restore a healthy gut microbiome and reduce symptoms. However, fiber intake should be monitored. For people with IBS-D (diarrhea-dominant IBS), too much fiber can worsen symptoms.' According to her, what works best is a personalised approach. Pariksha Rao said, 'Some people may benefit from reducing dairy or gluten, while others might need to stay away from specific vegetables or fruits. Eating smaller meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding foods that are hard to digest or cause gas are all recommended steps. Keeping a food diary can also help identify which foods trigger symptoms.' Talking about a holistic approach to gut health, Pariksha Rao asserted, 'IBS is a complex condition with no one-size-fits-all solution but by understanding how diet and stress influence gut health, individuals can take control of their symptoms. In India, as awareness grows and more people seek professional advice, better management is becoming possible. With the right combination of diet, probiotics, and stress-relief practices, people living with IBS can enjoy a better quality of life. As we observe IBS Awareness Month this April, it's the perfect time to start making thoughtful food choices and take care of both our gut and mind.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Irish Independent
28-04-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
Living with IBS: ‘There's a long list of things that I can't eat'
April is IBS Awareness Month and Georgina Croke was diagnosed with the condition almost three decades ago. She shares how the symptoms impact her, and how she manages them Today at 21:30 Georgina Croke was aged 21 and attending Waterford Institute of Technology when she first experienced symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. The now 48-year-old accountant and mother of one, who comes from Waterford City, was preparing for an exam, and found herself running to the toilet in the lead up to it. 'I put it down to nerves, but I had to take a few days off college afterwards as I couldn't leave the house,' says Croke.
NDTV
25-04-2025
- Health
- NDTV
IBS Awareness Month: 10 Desi Superfoods That Can Help In Management
IBS Awareness Month is observed every April to raise awareness about Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. IBS Awareness Month promotes better understanding, early diagnosis, and holistic management strategies, including lifestyle, diet, and mental health support. In India, where digestive health issues are common but often misunderstood, incorporating desi superfoods into the diet can play a vital role in managing IBS symptoms naturally and effectively. In this article, we outline the best desi superfoods for IBS management. 10 Desi superfoods that can help in IBS management 1. Curd Curd is a natural probiotic that supports gut health by promoting the growth of good bacteria. For people with IBS, this can help reduce bloating, ease digestion, and improve stool consistency. Opt for homemade or unsweetened curd, and if lactose is a trigger, try lactose-free versions or switch to fermented options like coconut curd. 2. Buttermilk Buttermilk is light, hydrating, and easier to digest than milk. It contains beneficial bacteria and lactic acid, which can soothe the gut lining and reduce inflammation. Adding roasted cumin (jeera) or ajwain can further enhance its digestive benefits, making it a perfect post-meal drink for IBS sufferers. 3. Fennel seeds Chewing fennel seeds after meals helps relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion—classic IBS complaints. Fennel relaxes the intestinal muscles and can also reduce cramping. You can also steep fennel seeds in hot water to make a gentle digestive tea. 4. Ginger Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory and carminative properties that help calm the stomach and ease nausea and cramps. It aids motility in the intestines and helps balance gut bacteria. You can consume it fresh in chai, soups, or as ginger water on an empty stomach. 5. Ajwain Ajwain is a time-tested remedy for digestive issues in Indian households. It contains thymol, which enhances the secretion of digestive enzymes. Drinking ajwain water or chewing a pinch with warm water can help with bloating and stomach discomfort in IBS. 6. Asafoetida Hing is a powerful spice that reduces gas formation and supports smooth digestion. It acts as a natural antispasmodic, reducing intestinal contractions and pain. A pinch of hing in curries or dissolved in warm water works wonders, especially for people with gas-dominant IBS. 7. Curry leaves These aromatic leaves have mild laxative properties and aid digestion. They help in maintaining intestinal pH balance and improving gut motility. You can chew them fresh, blend into chutneys, or steep in hot water for a cleansing herbal tea. 8. Amla Amla also known as Indian gooseberry is rich in vitamin C and fibre, and it supports healthy bowel movement. It also improves liver function and bile secretion, which are essential for digestion. However, for some people with IBS, especially those prone to diarrhoea, it should be taken in small quantities. 9. Moong dal Moong dal is light, protein-rich, and easy to digest. It causes less bloating compared to other pulses, making it a suitable option for people with IBS. Cook it with minimal spices and combine with rice or soft vegetables for a gentle, gut-friendly meal. 10. Banana Ripe bananas are soothing to the digestive tract and help regulate bowel movements. They're especially helpful in managing IBS with diarrhoea due to their binding quality. Rich in potassium and pectin, bananas support gut repair and reduce irritation. Add these foods to your diet to better manage IBS. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
Hindustan Times
24-04-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
IBS Awareness Month: More than just a tummy trouble
It's time we start paying attention to something that's been quietly impacting millions — Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS. Unlike conditions that show up on scans or blood tests, IBS doesn't always leave visible signs, but for those who live with it, the discomfort is very real. Bloating, stomach cramps and unpredictable bathroom habits aren't just 'in your head' — they're part of a complex gut disorder that's all too often misunderstood or ignored. According to Telangana's Pace Hospitals, 4 to 7% of people in India are living with IBS, and numbers are slowly but steadily rising. That's why the theme for 2025's IBS Awareness Month — More Than A Stomachache — couldn't be more timely. Because let's face it, IBS is not just about digestion. It can take a serious toll on your self-confidence, your mental well-being, and your overall quality of life. There are multiple types of IBS: IBS-C (with constipation as the main symptom), IBS-D (dominated by diarrhoea), and IBS-M (a mix of both — sometimes constipation, sometimes diarrhoea, making it harder to manage). And while we often link flare-ups to poor diet or stress — both valid triggers — the truth is, IBS behaves differently in every person. It's complex, it's frustrating, and unfortunately, it's still stigmatised. One gentle trend that's been making its way into everyday wellness routines — especially among Gen Z — is the rise of digestive drinks. These herbal concoctions, often made from everyday ingredients like jeera (cumin), ajwain (carom seeds), fennel, ginger, mint, and lemon, are gaining popularity for their soothing effects on the gut. Celebs are part of the wave, too. Actor Alaya F recently shared her go-to morning gut tonic, while Malaika Arora and Jennifer Aniston have also opened up about drinks they swear by to keep their digestion in check. But is there real science behind these wellness elixirs? Or is this just another trend dressed in wellness clothing? Alaya F's ayurvedic drink Her morning mix includes ajwain, cumin, fennel, ginger, fresh mint, and soaked basil (sabja) seeds — all steeped in warm water overnight. Taken on an empty stomach, it's meant to soothe bloating and kick-start digestion. Especially helpful for those with IBS-D (the diarrhoea kind). Malaika Arora's clove tea Malaika prefers clove-infused water, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This one's great for easing general discomfort and might help those with IBS-D too, but less effective for constipation. Steep a few cloves in hot water, drink. Jennifer Aniston's colostrum kick Her go-to is a drink made with bovine colostrum (yes, the first milk from cows post-birth), lemon juice, ginger, and sometimes Manuka honey. High in immune-supporting nutrients, this one's geared more towards IBS-C symptoms and overall gut immunity. Many of the ingredients found in digestive drinks aren't just kitchen staples — they're backed by science. Ginger helps the gut move more efficiently and eases inflammation. Peppermint has a naturally calming effect, chamomile soothes spasms and fennel and mint can ease bloating. Lemon juice is known to kick-start digestive enzymes, while probiotics and prebiotics nourish the gut's good bacteria. 'These are ingredients most of us already have at home,' says Dr Bir Singh Sehrawat, Program Clinical Director and Head of Gastroenterology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad, adding, 'These celeb drinks support digestion, relieve gas and bloating, and encourage regular bowel movements. Something as simple as lemon and honey in warm water can help clear the stomach first thing in the morning.' But while these drinks may offer comfort in the early stages of IBS or when symptoms are mild, they're not a fix for everything. If symptoms become more serious — unexplained weight loss, ongoing diarrhoea or constipation, or blood in stools — it's time to see a doctor. 'In such cases, medical attention and a tailored treatment plan are essential,' he adds. Samiksha Kalra Gupta, Head of the Dietetics Department at Madukar Rainbow Children's Hospital, agrees and adds, 'Digestive drinks are not a replacement for medical treatment for IBS. Individuals with IBS should work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive management plan.' Food: Dr Piyush Ranjan recommends the low-FODMAP diet, which has been shown to reduce IBS symptoms in many. Including fibre-rich foods, fermented items like curd and pickles, and avoiding known personal triggers (like dairy or certain veggies) can be helpful. Sleep: A chaotic sleep schedule can mess with your gut more than you'd think. Poor sleep slows digestion and increases inflammation. Setting a consistent bedtime — and avoiding heavy late-night meals — can help. Stress: The gut-brain connection is real. Anxiety and stress can worsen IBS symptoms. Mindful activities like yoga, deep breathing, or even a casual walk can help calm the nervous system and, in turn, your gut. Hydration: Water is your gut's best friend. So are herbal teas, and fruits like watermelon or cucumber that offer hydration and fibre. Movement: Exercise helps everything — digestion included. You don't need a HIIT routine. Even walking or stretching regularly can improve bowel movement and reduce bloating.
Associated Press
02-04-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Patient Voices Highlight the Realities of Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome During IBS Awareness Month
Bausch Health's gastroenterology business, Salix Pharmaceuticals, recognizes the complexities of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and seeks to make a difference in how the condition is perceived, diagnosed and treated. LAVAL, QC / ACCESS Newswire / April 2, 2025 / Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE:BHC)(TSX:BHC) and its gastroenterology (GI) business, Salix Pharmaceuticals ('Salix'), today announced the launch of IBS Symptoms Aren't Black and White: Living in the Gray, an authentic storytelling campaign that addresses the complexities of living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Throughout April, which is IBS Awareness Month, Salix will be sharing patient stories on LinkedIn, highlighting the unique journeys of individuals living with IBS. Irritable bowel syndrome is more than just a common condition that affects up to an estimated 10% of the global population - it is a complex condition with unpredictable symptoms that can impact every aspect of patients' lives, including one's physical, emotional, social and professional well-being.1,2 Navigating the road to proper care can be a long and complicated process; Salix seeks to bring greater understanding to help improve how IBS is perceived, diagnosed and treated. 'We recognize that every patient's experience is unique and has the potential to inspire others in the IBS community to seek the care they deserve,' said Nicola Kayel, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Salix. 'Our campaign, IBS Symptoms Aren't Black & White: Living in the Gray, underscores our ongoing commitment to supporting patients by amplifying their voices to raise visibility, build a community of empowered individuals and destigmatize the narrative that surrounds this condition.' Many people with IBS agree that their symptoms, such as diarrhea and hard to pass bowel movements, can be hard to talk about, and as a result, unresolved symptoms cause the burden of IBS to persist.2 Patient advocacy group, the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD), recognizes this obstacle and is partnering with Salix to generate conversation and share authentic stories. By normalizing open and honest discussions about IBS and reducing stigma, Salix and IFFGD hope to motivate patients to talk to their healthcare providers about the full range of their IBS symptoms, including less obvious experiences like abdominal pain, bloating and urgency. President of IFFGD, Ceciel T. Rooker, stated, 'At IFFGD, we are committed to broadening patient understanding of GI disorders like IBS. We are proud to support Salix in their effort to illuminate real patient stories to help raise visibility of the authentic patient experience and the multi-faceted nature of IBS symptoms. We believe it will encourage patients to speak up about their symptoms and ultimately receive appropriate care for their condition.' Click here to read about real patients' experiences on Salix Pharmaceuticals' LinkedIn. About Bausch Health Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE:BHC)(TSX:BHC) is a global, diversified pharmaceutical company enriching lives through our relentless drive to deliver better health care outcomes. We develop, manufacture and market a range of products primarily in gastroenterology, hepatology, neurology, dermatology, dentistry, aesthetics, international pharmaceuticals and eye health, through our controlling interest in Bausch + Lomb Corporation. Our ambition is to be a globally integrated healthcare company, trusted and valued by patients, HCPs, employees and investors. Our gastroenterology business, Salix Pharmaceuticals, is one of the largest specialty pharmaceutical businesses in the world and has licensed, developed and marketed innovative products for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases for more than 30 years. For more information about Salix, visit and connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn. For more information about Bausch Health, visit and connect with us on LinkedIn. SOURCE: Bausch Health Companies Inc.
