Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that affects the large intestine, or colon, causing cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation. The exact cause of IBS is unknown. Possible causes include alteration in the gastrointestinal tract motility, abnormal nervous system signals, increased sensitivity to pain, and food intolerances. Psychological symptoms such as anxiety or depression have not been found to be a direct cause of IBS, however their presence may worsen symptoms.
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Nutritional Counseling
Diet changes can help manage IBS symptoms of abdominal cramping and pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. The Low FODMAP diet, when implemented with medication and stress management, is shown to improve symptoms in over 80% of people with IBS. FODMAPs are carbohydrates, or sugars, found in foods which may cause digestive upset in people with IBS, and limiting these foods in an elimination diet has been shown to alleviate symptoms of IBS. At METANU, we work with you in eliminating and re-introducing foods to your diet to help pinpoint to root dietary causes of your IBS symptoms.
Stress and Emotional Management
Studies have shown that patients with IBS commonly feel relief from their symptoms when they are provided stress management assistance and emotional support. At METANU, we understand your symptoms and help you cope with any emotional distress that may be exacerbating your symptoms, with cognitive-behavioral interventions and stress management techniques.
Medical Management
Medication may be used alongside lifestyle changes to manage symptoms of IBS. In most cases, the choice of medicine is based on your most troublesome IBS symptom, and Dr. Flynn will work with you to provide individualized pharmaceutical interventions, as appropriate.
How We Help
At METANU, our treatments focus on the relief of symptoms so that you can live as normally as possible. In most cases, you can successfully control symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with diet and lifestyle changes, medication, and stress management. Our physician nutrition specialist and registered dietitian work together to provide individualized interventions to help manage your symptoms.
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