Helping the brain to heal the gut (IBS)

Medical Xpress / University of Pennsylvania ^ | June 20, 2022 | Luis Melecio-Zambrano /

[ConservativeMind]

…One of the most important advances is a deepened understanding of the mechanism of IBS, which is now characterized as a disorder of the gut-brain interaction, says Hunt. Signals from the gut that might go unnoticed in individuals without IBS instead get transmitted to and interpreted by the brain as pain or the urgent need for a bowel movement. This can lead to anxiety, and the intestine, which is lined with stress hormone receptors, responds by cramping and spasming.

Symptomatically, IBS manifests as abdominal pain and either constipation, diarrhea, or alternating bouts of both, and by some estimates as many as 15% of the population struggles with some form of the disorder. For those more prone to diarrhea, the anxiety around explaining frequent trips to the restroom or being too far away from a convenient restroom can lead them to avoid social situations and may ultimately manifest as agoraphobia.

The world-shrinking nature of the condition, paired with frequent physical discomfort, can lead to desperation. Many take extreme measures, usually in the form of dietary restrictions or multiple medications, in an attempt to reduce their symptoms.

However, even the effectiveness and side effects of many clinically prescribed interventions, such as laxatives or antibiotic treatments, can vary.

What these treatments all share is their focus on the "gut" side of the gut-brain interaction. Instead, Hunt focuses on the brain. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy to help patients reduce their anxiety and hypervigilance around gut sensations and encourages them to slowly expose themselves to food and situations that they associate with their individual IBS symptoms. She also teaches them to stop catastrophizing, falling into the trap that the worst is bound to happen. This approach actually leads to reductions in visceral hypersensitivity, allowing people to alleviate symptoms while eating whatever they want.

[ConservativeMind]

Some mind training might go a long way in addressing the worst of IBS.

[ConservativeMind]

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[yefragetuwrabrumuy]

A lot of people, especially women, get serious relief from IBS by consuming peppermint oil. It was known anecdotally for years before it was scientifically determined that the oil soothes intestinal spasm at the cellular level.

The trick is how to get it there without irritating the mouth, throat and esophagus. Pills seem to be the best bet.

[reformedliberal]

...serious relief from IBS...
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We chew/suck on candied ginger. Peppermint tea also works well. Longer term, probiotics, especially from fermented foods, are effective.