irritable bowel syndrome
Up to 20% of the Canadian population experience IBS, and it is the leading cause of work or school absenteeism, second only to the common cold.
IBS is categorized based on the symptoms predominately being experienced—diarrhea (IBS-D), constipation (IBS-C), or mixed (IBS-M). Other conditions are still ruled out through testing, like inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and infection.
In the presence of certain symptoms, stool testing may be recommended.
“IBS is not a diagnosis of exclusion”
the role of a naturopathic doctor
Naturopathic doctors can recommend and run lab tests during the diagnosis and assessment of IBS.
Nutritionally, there may be a need for increased fibre and prebiotics. There are certain diets and supplements, including strain specific probiotics available in Canada to improve the intestinal barrier, modulate the immune system, impact pain perception and regulate transit time.
As research continues to grow on the gut-brain connection and it’s role in IBS, there are lifestyle modifications that can be important in the treatment of IBS.
need help with digestive help?
i’m here for you. let’s work together.
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irritable bowel syndrome
naturopathic doctors are in an exceptional position to help patients better understand IBS diagnosis, reduce anxiety around food/diet, provide tools to manage discomfort, support motility, rule out other causes of symptoms, edudcate on stress, and improve your overall experience of digestion.
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heartburn & reflux
accurate assessment and diagnosis, especially on different types of reflux is important in the management of symptoms and tissue healing. there is opportunity to support you with natural therapies, lifestyle recommendations, and optimization of PPI usage and its appropriateness for diagnosis, including when to stop using it.
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inflammatory bowel disease
through education about evidence for nnutrition therapy, preventing nutritional deficiencies, appropriate supplementation alongside drug therapy, and maintaining remissions are all ways naturopathic doctors can help support those living with IBD.
