Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Christmas can be an uncomfortable time of year

During the Christmas period it is common for us to over indulge in food, alcohol and have erratic routines. So is it any wonder that the already common (and very uncomfortable) problem of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) seems to flare up widely at this time of year?

What is IBS? Well according to The IBS Network Organisation it is “a longstanding illness consisting of frequent abdominal discomfort and bowel symptoms that cannot be explained by any other disease”, it the most common digestive function disorder seen by General Practitioners (GPs). IBS symptoms include bloating, pain, flatulence, diarrhoea and constipation. IBS affects around one fifth of people in the UK (Maxwell, 1997) and women are more than twice as likely to develop IBS, especially during their period. The condition often begins in adolescence or early adulthood thereafter it can persist as a chronic long standing problem through life. IBS varies from person to person both in triggers and symptoms but causative factors can include emotional stress, diet, gastroenteritis or use of laxatives. IBS can significantly impact quality of life with pain and impairment leading to frequent medical appointments, time off work and even depression. IBS is widespread, it causes pain and affects peoples lives.

Christmas can be a time of stress and pressure to have a good time (or create one for others) this combined with rich food to the excess can create the perfect environment for a bout of unwelcome IBS. The research literature suggest that conventional medications are of limited benefit (Akehurst 2001). So how can someone suffering help heal themselves? One of the easiest ways you can help alleviate symptoms is by taking some soothing herbs and teas – chamomile, peppermint and aloe vera are antispasmodics that will help to reduce cramping symptoms. The NHS recommends peppermint oil as a non-prescription supplement, it has been shown to be better at easing symptoms than prescribed muscle relaxants or increased fibre. Taking turmeric as a supplement or adding it to food may also help with IBS symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Probiotics (live bacteria and yeasts) can provide numerous health benefits and they occur naturally in fermented foods such as kombucha (fermented green tea), kimchi (fermented Korean pickles) and kefir (cultured yoghurt drink) so try get a daily does of the 3 K's!

Next try to reduce stress, I know it is Christmas and everyone wants it to be perfect and magical but feeling well makes a huge difference so stop for a minutes and release the pressure - maybe share your problems and worries with a trusted person, move your body (dancing, running, yoga?) or get out in the fresh air and find some awe in nature.

In addition to lifestyle and dietary changes acupuncture can provide real relief from IBS. A meta-analysis study into the Effectiveness of acupuncture to treat irritable bowel syndrome (Chao & Zhang 2014) concluded that acupuncture exhibits clinically and statistically significant control of IBS symptoms. So why not book an appointment today to combine with your selfcare and start to feel better.

#IBS #acupuncture #appleyardacu