I know I should quit smoking anyway....but how does it badly affect IBS?

[physiogirl]

I smoke up to 5 cigarettes a day...no lectures please! I'm trying to change my mindset to list all of the benefits to me, One thing I don't know is why we're advised to give up smoking with IBS.

[jimb0123]

Possibly not IBS related but smoking reduces the stomachs ability to produce mucous.This mucous acts as a barrier between your body and hydrochloric acid ( en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydro... without the barrier the acid can damage your stomach lining causing ulcers!

[xsnorkelx]

I have no idea I've never been told that. I don't smoke anymore and yes everyone knows it's bad for you but you will only choose not to smoke when you don't want to, I could be wrong but don't see how it can affect your IBS other than reducing blood flow/raising blood pressure. Obviously it's a good idea to stop but don't stress out about it as stress will make your IBS worse! Good luck x

[woodgut8]

Well i gave up smoking in 1987 which is when symptoms began. Think they dont know why IBS happens and they just suggest stuff. Number u smoke cant make any difference.

[physiogirl]

Thanks everyone....I want to want to give up...I just don't want it bad enough yet I guess

[Dawnann in reply to physiogirl]

Isnt if funny how smokeing takes the blame for everything. Yet people who smoke for years are walking around and people who dont die how does that work out . Do you know what I think do what you want smoke all you want. They should be looking at what drink and drugs do to people's body's . Rant over sorry

[matusadona]

I had a friend who badly damaged her stomach lining, drinking far too much coffee. She was very ill for a short time until she mentioned her coffee intake and was told to eliminate it. She is now fine. I'd never heard of the stomach lining before but I'd take on board anything that may be a problem for you, such as smoking and eliminate it.