I think a FODMAP will be of benefit and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a very common debilitating gastrointestinal disorder that affects people in different ways. It is estimated that between 8% and 20% of the adult population are affected and typical symptoms include chronic abdominal pain, bloating, and varying bouts of constipation and diarrhoea.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is termed a ‘functional disorder’. A functional disorder is a medical condition that impairs the normal function of the body where every part of the body looks completely normal under examination. We do not fully understand IBS since it is a very complex condition, but sufferers can exhibit a combination of different symptoms and signs such as abdominal bloating, constipation (IBS-C), diarrhoea (IBS-D) or alternating between both (IBS-A).
One of the most important supplements to take for occasional symptoms of IBS is the use of a quality digestive enzyme supplement such as Digestive Enzyme Complex. Digestive enzymes break down food efficiently, helping to prevent stagnation or fermentation which can lead to toxin build-up and so inflammation and diarrhoea. (DoSe Digestive Enzyme Complex, £29)
More than 30 studies indicate that probiotic supplements may be helpful in the management of the symptoms of IBS such as bloating, flatulence, and may improve overall symptoms when taken daily. Mega Probio contains eight strains of acid-resistant bacteria that can colonise the gut and perform their myriad roles in gut health, immunity, digestion, detoxification, as well as in the production of energising B-vitamins. This dairy-free, wheat and gluten-free supplement works well for most inflammatory digestive concerns. (DoSe Mega Probio, £25)
