What is IBS according to Western Medicine?
The CMDT defines Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) as a chronic functional disorder characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort with alterations in bowel habits. Symptoms generally begin in late teens and early twenties.
Pain is often relieved with defecation. There is a change in the frequency in bowel movements (increased and often urgent), and a change in the appearance of the stool. It is not uncommon for IBS suffers to experience an incomplete feeling after a bowel movement.
The appearance of the stool ranges from lumpy and hard to loose and watery, with or without mucus. All of these symptoms are often accompanied by bloating and abdominal distention.
Patients may also experience dyspepsia, heartburn, chest pain, headaches, fatigue, myalgias, urologic dysfunction, gynecological symptoms, anxiety, or depression.
Clinically, I find that IBS patients are worse with anxiety, stress, and depression
Treatments often include lifestyle changes, dietary changes, and possibly medication. It is not uncommon for your doctor to prescribe an antidepressant.
Which foods make IBS better/worse?
Worse
- Fatty foods, like French fries
- Milk products
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Caffeinated drinks like coffee and soda
- Carbonated drinks
Better
- High fiber foods
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Bread, cereal and beans
- Eating small meals more frequently
- Staying away from eating large meals.
Add in high fiber foods a little at a time to allow the body to get used to it. Too much fiber at once can cause gas, which can trigger the IBS.
What can NAET do for IBS?
IBS is a disease of the bowels. Most vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes are absorbed in the intestines. The large intestines have the extra function of reabsorbing water back into the body to prevent diarrhea (which can lead to dehydration). If too much water is reabsorbed it can lead to constipation.
It is very common to see patients that have IBS also have sensitivities to vitamins, minerals, and foods. By treating for these sensitivities, and any emotions (fear, frustration, anger, stress etc.) the patient starts to see an improvement in bowel health.
Why NAET and not just Traditional Chinese Medicine?
NAET is based on multiple modalities including Traditional Chinese Medicine. Yes, it may take a while to see results with NAET. This depends on what your major trigger is, and when we are able to address it. However, I am able to use a combination of NAET, acupuncture, and Chinese herbology. This allows your underlying/acute conditions to be addressed at the same time as being treated with NAET.
IBS is difficult to treat in general. Many patients that have been on medications for years are still having trouble regulating it.
With NAET you are able to stay on the medication, while you are undergoing treatments. Which will allow you temporary relief while working towards eliminating the problem. Get in touch with me to find out if NAET is right for you.
