What causes IBS?

What causes IBS?

The exact cause of IBS is still not certain. However, there is emerging evidence that changes in your gut bacteria and inflammation caused by an immune system response may play a role in its development.

In particular, factors that contribute to IBS are thought to be:

sensitivity – you may have a more sensitive gut (sometimes called ‘visceral sensitivity’)

Digestion speed – the contents of your gut may move unusually quickly or slowly (sometimes called ‘altered gut motility’)

Bacteria – you may have an imbalance of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria in your gut (sometimes called ‘dysbiosis’)

Leaky gut – your gut may be slightly inflamed or ‘leaky’, i.e., it may have small cracks or openings in a protective layer that allow partially digested food, toxins and microbes to get through to sensitive gut tissue.

Infection – you may have had an infection, such as gastroenteritis, that trigged the IBS.

Using fresh, active probiotics can help alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation and toning down the immune system. They can also help regularise bowel movements which can also alleviate symptoms.

Further information can be found at;

https://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-a-z/i/irritable-bowel-syndrome/