Latest news with #IrritableBowelSyndrome
IOL News
31-07-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Gut feeling gone wrong? What to know about IBS and how to keep it in check
Living with IBS necessitates listening to your body, embracing experimentation, and fostering healthy habits. Image: Cottonbro studio/ Pexels Have you ever found yourself clutching your stomach in pain after a stressful day, or scanning the menu for something 'safe' at a restaurant, worried about what your gut might do next? If so, you're not alone. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic, often misunderstood condition that's far more common and disruptive than most people realise. According to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, IBS affects 10-15% of the world's population, yet its invisible symptoms can leave many feeling isolated and frustrated. But IBS isn't just about digestive troubles. It's about living in a body that sometimes feels unpredictable, in a world that expects you to keep up no matter what. So, what does IBS look like in real, everyday life, and how can you take back control? IBS isn't a 'one-size-fits-all' diagnosis. One day, you might feel perfectly fine; the next, you're doubled over with abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation, sometimes all in the same week. Dr Maré Du Plessis, a gastrointestinal specialist at Mediclinic Milnerton in Cape Town, points out, 'IBS typically follows a pattern of remission and flare-ups throughout life. While symptoms can improve with age, lifestyle factors play a massive role in how often and how severely they strike.' IBS is twice as common in women as in men, and it often flares up during times of hormonal changes, like menstruation or perimenopause. The unpredictability can make even simple plans feel daunting, affecting your work, social life and emotional well-being. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ According to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, IBS affects 10–15% of the world's population, yet its invisible symptoms can leave many feeling isolated and frustrated. Image: cottonbro studio/pexels Why does IBS happen? The short answer? It's complicated. Experts agree that IBS is multifactorial, meaning there's no single cause. Here's what researchers and real people are noticing: Gut-brain connection: Stress, anxiety, and depression aren't just 'in your head'; they can directly trigger gut symptoms. Studies show that emotional distress can disrupt communication between your brain and digestive tract, making symptoms worse-gut sensitivity: Many people with IBS have a more reactive digestive tract. Something as simple as a change in diet or a stressful event can throw the system off balance. Microbiome imbalance: The bacteria in your gut play a huge role. Alterations in your microbiome (from antibiotics, illness, or diet) can set the stage for IBS Food triggers: Foods high in FODMAPs (certain carbs found in dairy, wheat, some fruits and veggies) can cause severe bloating and pain. Keeping a food diary can help you spot your personal triggers Food sensitivities: Dairy, gluten, and high-FODMAP foods (certain carbs found in many everyday foods) are common triggers. Past infections: Sometimes, a stomach bug can kickstart a lifetime of IBS. It's rarely just one thing; often, it's a perfect storm. As Du Plessis notes, 'Untreated anxiety and depression can worsen symptoms, and women in particular seem to be more vulnerable.' How do you know it's IBS and not something else? IBS mimics lots of other issues, so seeing a specialist is key. It's crucial to rule out conditions like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or even colorectal cancer. Tests like ultrasounds, colonoscopies, or gastroscopies might be recommended not to scare you, but to make sure you're getting the right treatment. Taking control: What really works? 1. Diet is your first line of defence: Forget one-size-fits-all diets. IBS triggers are deeply personal. However, many find relief by: Limiting high-FODMAP foods like onions, garlic, apples, and wheat Staying hydrated is crucial. Adding soluble fibre (think oats, psyllium husk) to ease both diarrhoea and constipation. Avoiding gas-producing veggies (think broccoli, cauliflower) if they worsen your symptoms. 2. Movement matters: A simple 30-minute walk each day can work wonders: Exercise helps your gut 'move' and can ease anxiety, two wins in one. 3. Make it a routine: Your body and bowels love routines. Dr. Du Plessis advises setting a fixed time each day for a bathroom break. 'It can take 7-10 days to establish, but it's one of the most effective ways to manage symptoms. 4. Mind your mind: Therapy, mindfulness, or even medication for anxiety and depression can have surprising benefits for your gut. The conversation between your brain and your gut is real, so treat both with care 5. Get your sleep sorted: Insomnia makes IBS worse. Regular exercise, limiting screens before bed, and sticking to a sleep schedule can help. Living with IBS means listening to your body and sometimes, pushing back against the shame and isolation that can come with it. It's about experimenting, tracking what works and building small, sustainable habits.
Time of India
28-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Persistent stomach pain? 12 serious health conditions every adult should know about
Persistent stomach pain means discomfort in your belly region that sticks around for weeks, months, or even longer. Unlike an occasional cramp or a brief stomachache, this pain doesn't fully go away and often comes and goes in a pattern, or it might gradually get worse. The abdomen holds a ton of important organs, your stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, kidneys, reproductive organs, and more, so pinpointing what's wrong can be tricky. Common and uncommon reasons why your stomach won't quit hurting According to Mayo Clinic, a major trusted US healthcare resource, abdominal pain causes stretch from the simple and harmless (like indigestion or muscle strain) to the complex and serious (such as cancer or organ disease). Studies in primary care settings show that about one in ten patients with abdominal pain actually have acute or urgent medical issues that need immediate attention. Here's an easy-to-scan breakdown of notable conditions that often underlie persistent abdominal pain: Digestive issues Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) IBS is like that annoying roommate who never leaves. It messes with your gut, especially the large intestine, causing cramping, bloating, gas, and unpredictable bathroom runs. There's no obvious damage in your intestines, but the pain and discomfort feel very real and very frequent. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) If you constantly feel like your lunch is trying to climb back up, GERD might be the culprit. It's when stomach acid flows the wrong way into your esophagus, leaving a burning feeling in your chest or throat. It's not just heartburn it can become a daily struggle if left untreated. Gastritis and peptic ulcers Your stomach lining isn't invincible. Inflammation (gastritis) or open sores (ulcers) can cause sharp or burning pain in your upper belly. Often caused by an H. pylori infection or too many painkillers like ibuprofen, these conditions also bring nausea, bloating, and that gnawing empty-stomach feeling. Celiac disease This autoimmune condition means your body goes to war with gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Eat it, and you could end up with stomach pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and nutrient deficiencies. It's more than a trendy gluten-free diet; it's a serious medical issue. Inflammatory & infectious causes Diverticulitis Little pouches can form in your colon (called diverticula), and sometimes they get infected. When that happens, welcome to diverticulitis. It usually causes pain in the lower left side of your belly and might come with fever, nausea, and even constipation. Crohn's disease & ulcerative colitis Both are forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and they love to stir up trouble. Think chronic pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and sometimes weight loss. Crohn's can affect any part of the digestive tract, while ulcerative colitis sticks to the colon and rectum. Either way, it's a painful and ongoing battle. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) For women, lower abdominal pain could be caused by PID, a serious infection of the reproductive organs. It often stems from untreated STIs and can bring fever, unusual discharge, and pain during sex. If not treated early, it can lead to long-term issues like infertility. Structural & functional problems Gallstones These tiny troublemakers form in your gallbladder and can block the flow of bile. When that happens, you might get hit with sudden, intense pain in your upper right abdomen—pain that often shows up after a fatty meal and sticks around for hours. Kidney stones If you've ever felt like your body is trying to pass a jagged rock, that's a kidney stone. The pain usually starts in your back or side and radiates down to your lower belly or groin. It comes in waves and is often brutal. Hernias When an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in your abdominal wall, it's called a hernia. You might notice a bulge and feel pain when you cough, lift, or even laugh too hard. It's not just annoying—it can become serious if not treated. Serious conditions to watch for Cancer Ongoing belly pain that doesn't go away could point to something serious like cancer. Tumors in the pancreas, liver, or intestines often don't show symptoms early on, but when pain shows up, especially if it gets worse over time, it's time to see a doctor. Vascular problems Chronic mesenteric ischemia is a rare but serious condition where blood flow to your intestines gets restricted. You'll often feel cramping pain after eating because your digestive system isn't getting enough oxygen. It's sneaky but dangerous if missed. Appendicitis Starts as a dull ache around your belly button and then suddenly shifts to the lower right side—that's the classic sign of appendicitis. It can come with nausea, fever, and a sense that something's not right. It's a medical emergency, so don't wait it out. A 2014 systematic review published in Family Practice highlighted that about a third of abdominal pain cases have no definitive diagnosis after initial evaluation, underscoring the complexity and diagnostic challenge clinicians face. Still, the most common diagnoses among U.S. primary care patients presenting with abdominal pain were gastroenteritis (7-19%), irritable bowel syndrome (3-13%), urological causes like kidney infections or stones (5%), and gastritis (5%). More recent gastroenterology research emphasizes the need to consider less obvious causes like vascular diseases—for example, median arcuate ligament syndrome (a rare compression of an artery) and chronic mesenteric ischemia, both of which can cause persistent or recurrent abdominal pain. These are less common but can be overlooked, especially if a patient has risk factors like smoking, diabetes, or heart disease common in US populations. Why is it important to know this? In the US, where lifestyle factors such as high-fat diets, obesity, and sedentary living are prevalent, risks for digestive and vascular causes of abdominal pain may be higher. For instance, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which can cause liver pain, is on the rise and can lead to more serious liver damage if left unchecked. Similarly, obesity and diabetes increase risk for gallstones and vascular issues that cause chronic abdominal symptoms. If your abdominal pain is persistent, worsening, associated with symptoms like unintentional weight loss, vomiting, blood in stool or urine, jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin), fever, or changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks, seek medical help. These could be signs of serious underlying diseases needing prompt diagnosis and treatment. Primary care physicians often use a combination of detailed history, physical exams, lab tests, imaging (ultrasound, CT scans), and sometimes endoscopies to find the cause. They may refer you to gastroenterologists, surgeons, or other specialists for more advanced care. Lifestyle and prevention tips Though causes can be varied, there are some general tips for better gut and abdominal health: Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables. Stay hydrated and exercise regularly. Limit excessive use of NSAIDs, alcohol, and smoking. Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Report new or persistent pain to a healthcare provider.
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
What is a low FODMAP diet and can it really fix your gut issues?
A quiet revolution seems to be happening at the dinner table, not marked by exotic fruits or vegetables or flashy labels, but by what's being taken off the plate. In recent years, the low-FODMAP diet has surged in popularity. Especially among people desperate to solve their ongoing digestive woes. But is this elimination-based diet any good? Can it actually help heal an inflamed, uncooperative gut? Science behind the diet isn't new, but it's becoming more mainstream. FODMAPs are short for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols. These are a group of carbohydrates that ferment in your digestive tract. In plain terms, these are types of sugars and fibers that don't always break down well in the small intestine, especially for people with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) or SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth). They pass through partially digested, drawing water with them, and eventually land in your colon where the resident microbes feast, producing gas, acids, and for some people, misery. The result is bloating, cramping, and frequent bathroom visits. According to researchers at Monash University, the team that developed the low-FODMAP framework, removing these fermentable carbs can reduce symptoms in roughly 3 out of 4 people with IBS. Their studies have shown significant relief in bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular stool patterns when patients followed the diet under supervision. Deeper look at FODMAPs To understand why this diet is gaining traction, it helps to know what's actually being restricted. FODMAPs include: Oligosaccharides: Found in wheat, garlic, onions, legumes—essentially prebiotics that feed gut bacteria. Disaccharides: Mainly lactose, the sugar in milk and dairy. Monosaccharides: Fructose, the simple sugar in certain fruits. Polyols: Sugar alcohols found both naturally (in apples, stone fruits) and artificially (in sugar-free gum or mints). Each of these groups can cause a unique reaction in sensitive guts, which is why this isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. For instance, someone might tolerate dairy fine but react violently to a lentil stew or a slice of garlic bread. Who needs it? Not everyone needs to go on this diet. For a healthy digestive system, fermentable carbs are a good thing. Feeding gut bacteria isn't just natural; it's vital for immunity and long-term health. However, for individuals with sensitive or inflamed intestines, the normal fermentation process can lead to the overproduction of gas and water. This, in turn, can stretch the gut wall and trigger pain receptors. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, a low-FODMAP diet is particularly helpful in managing IBS and SIBO. It's typically done in three phases: elimination, reintroduction, and personalization. However, experts emphasize that the idea is not to ban these foods completely but to identify personal triggers and expand your diet as much as possible without symptoms. What can you eat? Low-FODMAP doesn't mean low variety. In fact, many common and enjoyable foods remain on the menu. Some safe bets include: Proteins: Eggs, tofu, firm cheeses, plain meats. Fruits: Grapes, oranges, kiwi, unripe bananas. Vegetables: Zucchini, carrots, spinach, bell peppers. Grains: Rice, oats, quinoa, gluten-free breads made without high-FODMAP flours. But there are nuances too. For example, a ripe banana is high in fructose, but a slightly green one may be fine in moderate amounts. Similarly, avocado is only low-FODMAP if you stick to a tablespoon or two. Disclaimer : This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any diet, including low-FODMAP.
News18
21-07-2025
- Health
- News18
From Constipation To Microbiome Imbalance: How Dehydration Impairs Gut Health
When you are dehydrated and when your water intake is less than the adequate level, a range of gut-related issues can emerge. Water plays a vital role in nearly every physiological process, and gut health is no exception. From digestion and nutrient absorption to waste elimination, your digestive system relies heavily on adequate hydration. When water intake falls short, a range of gut-related issues can emerge, potentially compromising your overall well-being. Dr. Gyan Ranjan Rout, Consultant, Medical Gastroenterologist, Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneswar, shares how dehydration can have an impact on your gut health. 1. Constipation: The Most Immediate Red Flag One of the most common and visible effects of dehydration is constipation. Water helps keep stools soft and easy to pass. Dr Rout says, 'When the body is dehydrated, it draws water from the colon to maintain other essential functions. This results in dry, hard stool that moves sluggishly through the intestines, often causing abdominal discomfort. Chronic constipation can lead to bloating, gas, and in more severe cases, complications like hemorrhoids or anal fissures due to excessive straining." 2. Impaired Nutrient Absorption Beyond constipation, dehydration can negatively impact how the gut absorbs nutrients. Water is essential for maintaining the integrity of the mucosal lining of the intestines, crucial for absorbing vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes. Dr Rout explains, 'When this lining is compromised due to insufficient hydration, the body's ability to maintain nutrient balance falters. Over time, this can result in deficiencies, fatigue, and a weakened immune response." 3. Gut Microbiome Imbalance A well-hydrated body supports a healthy gut microbiota – the diverse ecosystem of bacteria that influences digestion, immunity, mood, and more. Dehydration may disturb this balance, allowing harmful bacteria to thrive and increasing the risk of inflammation. Dr Rout notes, 'This imbalance can worsen conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), and even in milder cases, lead to irregular bowel movements and general digestive discomfort." 4. Sluggish Digestion and Enzyme Production Water is essential for producing saliva and digestive enzymes that begin the breakdown of food. It also helps move food efficiently through the digestive tract. Without sufficient fluid intake, this process slows down. The result? Increased chances of indigestion, nausea, and heartburn. Consistent hydration is key to keeping your digestive system functioning smoothly. Drinking enough water throughout the day not only helps prevent constipation but also supports nutrient absorption, a balanced microbiome, and overall digestive comfort. view comments First Published: July 21, 2025, 17:25 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
NDTV
21-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Can A Low FODMAP Diet Cure Your Gut Problems?
If your gut is suffering and symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits are something that you face regularly, you're not alone. These symptoms often mean that you might be suffering from IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, like one-third of the Indians. But, what if we told you there's a diet, not so new, but once again resurfacing on social media as a fix to your gut issues? Enter: Low FODMAP Diet A Low FODMAP diet is a specific dietary plan designed to reduce the intake of certain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the gut. According to the University of Virginia Digestive Health Center, the term FODMAP refers to certain groups of carbohydrates that are found in many of the foods we eat. "FODMAP" is an acronym that stands for: F - Fermentable (creates gas) O - Oligosaccharides (a type of fiber found in wheat, onion, garlic, and beans) D - Disaccharides (refers to lactose, a commonly malabsorbed sugar found in some dairy foods) M - Monosaccharides (refers to fructose, found in certain fruits and many processed foods) A - And Ps - Polyols (refers to sugar alcohols added to sugar-free gum and candy and naturally found in certain fruits and vegetables) These carbohydrates share three characteristics that make them more likely to cause GI distress: 1. They are poorly absorbed in the small intestine 2. They draw extra water into the intestines 3. They are rapidly fermented by gut bacteria These three things can result in increased gassiness, bloating, abdominal pain, and altered bowel habits. How The Low FODMAP Diet Works According to experts, the diet is implemented in three steps: Step 1: Elimination. Remove all high-FODMAP foods from the diet for a period of 2-6 weeks. Step 2: Reintroduction. Gradually reintroduce FODMAP groups one at a time to identify triggers. Step 3: Personalisation/Maintenance. Restrict only the FODMAP groups that cause symptoms, enjoying all other foods. High VS Low FODMAP Foods Remember, if you want to fix your diet, going on a Low FODMAD diet is the right way to got about it. Not, High FODMAP diet. Here's a list of: High-FODMAP foods: Wheat, onions, garlic, certain fruits (apples, pears, watermelon), beans, lentils, milk, yogurt, ice cream, some sweeteners (sorbitol, xylitol). Low-FODMAP foods: Rice, quinoa, potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, eggplant, meat, eggs, some firm cheeses, grapes, oranges, berries, pineapple, lactose-free dairy. What Does Science Say? Numerous clinical studies globally have demonstrated the effectiveness of the low FODMAP diet. We took a dive: A December 2022 randomised controlled trial showed significant improvement in IBS symptoms, including reduced abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea for 50-70% of patients who follow the diet. In fact, larger reviews confirm that the low FODMAP diet is more effective than standard dietary advice for IBS in both adults and children, although not all individuals respond equally well. In India, a 2022 study found that most traditional Indian recipes are high in FODMAPs, mainly due to wheat, onions, garlic, pulses, and legumes. The study classified 73.2% of Indian foods as high-FODMAP, thereby highlighting the need for adaptations in traditional diets for individuals with IBS. However, implementation can also vary by region in India, with southern and eastern parts being more amenable to low FODMAP modifications due to rice-based diets, while wheat-dominant and vegetarian regions may face greater challenges. How To Follow The Low FODMAP Diet Right (With Indian Foods) Know Your Ingredients: Indian meals often contain high-FODMAP items like wheat (chapati, bread), dal/lentils, onion, garlic, and certain dairy products. Aim to substitute with low-FODMAP alternatives. Most Indian spices (turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala) are low in FODMAPs. Asafoetida (hing) can provide onion-garlic flavor without FODMAPs. If eating out, opt for food without onion and garlic. Choose plain rice, grilled protein, and vegetable dishes known to be low in FODMAPs. Here's a quick guide on low and high FODMAPs diet: Use portion control and rotating meal variety to prevent nutritional deficiencies, particularly fiber, calcium, and iron. Finally, work with a dietitian familiar with FODMAPs to ensure correct and balanced nutrition.
