First, I would like to clarify the difference between IBS and Inflammatory Bowel Disease. The first is a functional disorder where the bowel apprears realatively normal, and the second can cause Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis and even cancer. At times, the symptoms may be very similar, so if the symptoms become severe it is always a good idea to see a gastroenterologist to rule out IBD.

However, IBS is a common complaint patients present on our initial examination forms as a secondary complaint, In fact, we see this on a weekly basis. IBS has become increasingly more common over the last twenty years affecting 20 to 30% of the U.S. population with symptoms of constipation, diarrhea or alternating constipation and diarrhea. Also, abdominal pain, cramping, fatulence and abdominal rumbling, flu like symptoms with headache and fatigue are common.

There are five main causes of IBS. The first is the standard American diet with refined-fast foods that include artificial flavor enhancers, artificial colors, saturated and partially hydrogenated fats with high amounts of wheat grain and sugars like high fructose corn syrup. These foods in many cases are hard to digest and are foods that our body is not designed to eat.

The second cause is stress which can affect the nervous system and contribute to IBS. Also, unresolved emotional traumas, and lack of forgiveness can have the same negative effect as well.

The third cause would be chronic infections of the digestive tract such as candida, parasites and harmful baacteria which can increase the likelyhood of food allergies which can then lead to IBS.

The fourth cause is a poorly functioning digestive tract where there is low HCL acid and a deficiency of the good bacteria to support normal digestion.

The fifth cause is a structural spinal imbalance, where spinal misalignments impair nerve flow to the digestive tract which also contributes to digestive problems. Chiropractic care has made significant improvements in our patients with IBS. By recieving chiropractic adjustments patients improve spinal function which has an effect on digestive tract function.

There are however no magic bullets, and different forms of treatment work better for some people more than others.

 At our office along with chiropractic care, patients fill out a seven day diet survey to evaluate their eating habits. We also have our patients start a food diary to determine how they feel when eating different foods. Many times a simple elimination diet does the trick. It is inexpensive and it just requires will power and dicipline. Food allergy testing is performed at our office and the most common foods to eliminate are wheat because of gluten sensitivity and the second is dairy with caisen sensitivity. We recommend a good source of omega 3's and flaxseed oil which when ground provides an adaptogenic fiber which helps to normalize the bowel. Other supplements involve probiotics as a healthy source of good bacteria and enteric coated peppermint oil, digestive enzymes, ginger root and aloe vera juice to promote healing.

With the psychological problems that may be contributing to IBS, a less stressful lifestyle with prayer and meditaion can have a calming effect. However, some people may need professional counseling.

While IBS is a frustrating and sometimes a debilitating condition, it can be overcome. Individuals with IBS can take control and actively participate in their recovery by making sound dietary choices, being physically active and receiving chiropractic care.

Dr. Richard W. Haas DC, FACO