Can Probiotic Supplements Help Reduce IBS?

Did you know that IBS affects between 10% and 15% of the worldwide population? In the United States, IBS affects between 25 and 45 million people.

If you or someone you love suffers from IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, then you’ll know how painful and uncomfortable the condition is. Keep reading to find out more about how probiotic supplements can help you reduce your IBS pain and combat the problems.

What Is IBS?

IBS is a chronic disease that affects the stomach and abdomen. IBS flare ups can cause abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, gas, and either constipation or diarrhea (or both).

Experts still aren’t sure about what causes IBS, however it’s thought that bacterial overgrowth, infections, brain-gut interactions, intestinal inflammation, changes in digestive motility, or carbohydrate malabsorption could cause IBS. Certain foods can also trigger symptoms to flare up. And some people believe that stress can make symptoms worse.

What Helps to Relieve IBS Symptoms?

IBS is a condition that can’t be cured but can be managed. Treatment for IBS includes medication, diet changes, lifestyle changes, removing FODMAPs and lactose from diets, and using probiotics.

FODMAPs are found in a variety of foods, such as wheat, onions, milk, and apples. The carbohydrate molecules in FODMAPs are hard to digest for those who have IBS. As a result, these types of food cause bloating and gas.

What Are Probiotics?

The digestive system has bacteria known as gut flora in it. These bacterias all help to keep your gut and digestive system healthy and working. However, as seen with IBS, some people don’t always have enough gut flora or the right types of bacteria in their digestive systems, that’s where probiotics can help.

Probiotics are live bacteria that can be found in food or supplements. They help to restore your gut flora and keep your digestive system healthy. As well as improving your digestion, probiotics can also help you lose weight, boost your immune system, and improve your heart health.

Probiotics can be found in yoghurts and fermented foods. Additionally, you can also get probiotic supplements which you can take as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

How Can Probiotics Supplements Help Your IBS?

Due to gut flora imbalances being linked to IBS, it’s thought that probiotics can help to restore this balance.

A spokesperson from SUPPLEMENTSCOUTS said “Probiotics can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, such as Streptococcus and E. coli which are two dangerous bacterias found in IBS sufferer’s digestive systems. Probiotics can help to reduce inflammation which causes painful bloating and discomfort. But they don’t just stop there, as it’s also thought that probiotics can help slow down bowel movements and reduce gas build ups.”

So if you want to relieve your IBS symptoms, it might be a good idea to start incorporating probiotics into your diet, either by food or supplements. Your doctor should be able to advise you on the best probiotic supplements to take, however, you might also find this guide on how to choose the best probiotic capsules useful too.

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Libby Austin

Libby Austin, the creative force behind alltheragefaces.com, is a dynamic and versatile writer known for her engaging and informative articles across various genres. With a flair for captivating storytelling, Libby's work resonates with a diverse audience, blending expertise with a relatable voice.
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