There has been some research conducted to investigate the microbiome makeup of individuals with the different sub-types of IBS (IBS-C, IBS-D & IBS-M). There seems to be some marked microbiome differences between people suffering with these different types of IBS. The story is here (though a bit technical):
Although this doesn't necessarily mean any changes in behaviour required of us at this point in time, it is good to know that research into IBS is ongoing and that there may be tailored approaches such as specific supplemental probiotics that might favourably shift some of the symptoms we experience in future.
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xjrs
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Sorry to hear you are suffering. It all depends on the unique cause of your IBS. I have tried many probiotics in the past and Alflorex worked best for me. Unfortunately it is a case of trial and error. Probiotics may help people where a gut bacterial imbalance is a factor but possibly not all people with IBS will have a gut bacterial imbalance. This is why so much more research is needed to come up with various treatments for the different types of IBS.
I've looked back at your old post and just seen your reply to me which I didn't get notification of. I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Is there any chance that you might sign up for some bereavement counselling? It sounds like you need some support which is perfectly understandable at this time. Sometimes locked up emotions can play havoc on our bodies. Take care.
I have IBS-C and have been prescribed Linaclotide for it and I am also taking Alflorex probiotic as mentioned which has been scientifically studied for IBS. These in combination have reduced the pain I am in considerably and I have been able to tolerate more foods so that I am able to consume the extra fibre I need to have a BM including oatbran, wheat bran (if tolerated), 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed, 9 prunes, 2 tablespoon chia seeds and shredded wheat (or GF version: Nutribrex) for breakfast, plus quinoa, wholewheat bread and whole grain pastas at other meals. These fruits are particularly high fibre and can help with BMs: hard pears, dried apricots, raspberries, oranges (contain a natural laxative) & 2 kiwi. I find that I need to have 1 orange a day and then another high fibre fruit later in the day to help with BMs. In some people the Linaclotide also helps a lot with BMs which is its primary purpose.
There is some good advice about constipation here:
I am currently experimenting with soaking grains, to reduce phytic acid content which can block the absorption of some minerals. It also makes them more digestible.
I also take 30 drops of ginger extract before bedtime to aid motility. You may need to work up the dose to say 7 drop increments each night.
I have been giving Optifibre a go, which has been helping but I need to be careful with the amount since it gives me gas.
Exercise can help with BMs. The government recommends 150 mins of moderate exercise (e.g. walking as if you are late for an appointment) or 75 of intense exercise (e.g. jogging) per week. I also have a bit of a walk around straight after breakfast to get things moving.
You need to ensure that you are drinking enough fluids (2 litres of fluid per day).
If you are also suffering from pain, you may be suffering from visceral hypersensitivity (functional abdominal pain) - there is info about it here:
It is where the brain interprets the normal activity of the bowel as pain - this is due to a wearing down of neurons in pain control centres of the brain which can be caused by PTSD, neglect or abuse in childhood, extreme stressful events etc. The first line treatment is nerve pain agents such as low dose amitriptyline. There is a theory that being on something like amitriptyline for 6-12 months can help the pain control centre neurons to regenerate. Note that amitriptyline can cause constipation, but this can be helpful in people who are diarrhea dominant. Unfortunately I couldn't tolerate these. Linaclotide (for IBS-C only) & Alflorex have helped me with this intestinal pain.
Some people say that enteric coated peppermint can help with pain.
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IBS Research
Does anyone know of any research connecting sugar with IBS?
Microbiome test
