IBS

The answer, disappointingly, is unknown, but we do know the risk factors. About one-third of patients develop IBS after a gastroenteritis episode. Other risk factors include onset of maturity, prolonged fever, anxiety, depression, and family members with similar disorders.

Although the causes are unknown, several hypotheses have been developed: hypersensitivity of digestive smooth muscles, abnormal gut motility, psychological factors, brain-gut interaction, potential or latent Celiac Disease, infection and inflammation, disturbed normal flora in the gut, and fructose or lactose intolerance.

Because of these many possible causes, symptoms vary considerably, from diarrhea to constipation in gastrointestinal symptoms, and non-GI symptoms such as headaches.

IBS has no specific known cause and no known cure. With proper treatment and lifestyle management, it is possible for IBS to go into remission periods that may last from weeks to, in some cases, years.

The effects of acupuncture have been recognized by the World Health Organization and the National Institutes of Health Panel for treating abdominal pain, striated or smooth muscle cramping, constipation, diarrhea, anxiety, insomnia, nervousness, menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome, and inflammation, and for helping to relax muscle spasms.

Many IBS sufferers have already benefited from acupuncture treatment. Some have reported that acupuncture was the most effective treatment they had tried.

Our body is designed to adapt to environmental changes and maintain internal balance. We become sick when the body can no longer maintain its physiological equilibrium. In Chinese medicine, IBS is often caused by an imbalanced Five-Element System (most commonly a Wood and Earth imbalance). With acupuncture and herbal medicine, a TCM doctor can regulate the Five-Element System to restore this balance.

This Chinese medicine explanation may seem unfamiliar to those accustomed to western science. Although the mechanism of acupuncture’s effects on IBS is not yet fully understood in western terms, the clinical results and benefits have been widely observed.

There are no universal remedies for IBS since it manifests differently in each individual. You will learn more about your own IBS by keeping a journal to identify your triggering factors. Controlling these triggers can alleviate symptoms or prevent flare-ups. Below is a common list of triggering factors.

• The most common ones are dairy, trans fat, and saturated fat. Coffee, tea, chocolate, and any food or beverage containing caffeine, gas-producing foods, carbonated beverages, alcohol, spicy foods, corn, sugar or artificial sweeteners, wheat, excessive insoluble fiber, citrus fruits, foods in the cabbage family, and processed foods with condiments, MSG, or additives.
• Incorporate meditation, yoga, Tai Chi, exercise, or other activities into your routine to reduce stress, anxiety, or nervousness.
• Sleep well.
• Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly.
• Eat small portions at each meal. Avoid binge eating.
• Avoid ice-cold foods on an empty stomach.

Before trying supplements or changing your food intake, pay attention to how your body reacts. Stop or seek professional advice if you feel any discomfort.

• Some people experience symptom relief when they increase soluble fiber intake, prebiotics, and probiotics.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Continue with acupuncture and herbal medicine treatment if you find it beneficial.

$95/session, $45 consultation. 30-45 minute initial consultation.

Alberta Health Care does not cover acupuncture. Most company benefits cover acupuncture when treatment is provided through a Registered Acupuncturist. Contact your HR department or insurance company for coverage details.

If your IBS involves symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, smooth muscle cramping, menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome, or inflammation, there is a good chance that acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine may be able to help. If your IBS is triggered by anxiety, insomnia, or nervousness, acupuncture has the potential to help prevent flare-ups.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for IBS have been practiced by TCM practitioners around the world for many years. It is a reasonable natural modality with minimal adverse effects. “It works for many” does not mean “it works for you.” As for you, there is only one way to find out.