What is Stress and How Does It Affect Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Stress is a normal reaction the body has when changes occur. It can respond to these changes physically, mentally, or emotionally.

The Body has a built-in stress response system that fights stressful situations. This is called fight or flight. Imagine walking down a path on a beautiful summer day. Then suddenly out comes an 8-foot bear. That instant rush of energy is caused by fight or flight causing stress.

Your body is designed to handle stressful situations but not all day every day. If the bear chases you every day, the stress on your body and mind will result in health disorders like IBS.

Alleviating stress is the first step to healing Irritable Bowel syndrome. Click here for more Stress Anxiety Management for Irritable Bowel Syndromeinformation about controlling stress.

 

 

Irritable Bowel SyndromeWhat Is IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you’ll need to manage long-term.

Only a small number of people with IBS have severe signs and symptoms. Some people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress. More-severe symptoms can be treated with medication and counseling.

 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms

How do you know if you have IBS? Here is a list of common symptoms:

  • Pain and Cramping
  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Constipation — the stool comes out either lumpy or hard
  • Diarrhea — the stool comes out loose or watery
  • Alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea
  • Bowel movements that feel uncontrollably urgent, difficult to pass, or incomplete
  • Clear or white mucus with the stool
  • Foods – Many people with IBS find that specific foods cause stress on their system causes discomfort and health problems.
  • Fatigue and Lack of Sleep
  • Stress, Anxiety and Depression

 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Causes

There are many factors that can cause IBS such as:

  • Stress on The Nervous System – Daily stress of life such as finance, job, relationships and family can cause fight or flight. Daily stress signals from your brain through your body inhibits natural flow and digestion of food.
  • Infection – Virus and bacteria can cause IBS problems
  • Bacteria Changes – dysbiosis
  • Food Intolerances – certain foods can have a stressful effect on the digestive system and an imbalance in the gut.

 

Natural Remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Stress Management

Managing stress helps calm down your system. Stress not only triggers IBS, it can aggravate symptoms making them last longer.

Yoga, meditation and slow breathing exercises will reduce stress by creating a natural breathing pattern and calm heart rate.

Natural solutions for Irritable Bowel Syndrome can also include fiber supplements, nutritional laxatives, and soothing herbal formulas.  Probiotics are another natural remedy for IBS.

Click here for Irritable Bowel Remedies

Irritable Bowel Remedies for Digestive Health
Irritable Bowel Remedies

Natural Remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Stress Management By Dr Gary Gruber

Family and Environmental Medicine is owned and operated by Dr Gary Gruber specializes in natural solutions for ailments caused by stress and anxiety. Many health disorders can be overcome by learning and practicing stress management techniques in our daily lives.

If you are struggling to find a solution to your health issues, contact Dr Gary Gruber.

Family and Environmental Medicine is located in the heart of Fairfield County Connecticut near Downtown New Canaan

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