IBS or irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that affects one in five or six adults. It normally manifests in young adulthood up to the age of fifty. IBS symptoms can be mild or severe depending on the individual. For some in is a bothersome occurrence but for others it can be a debilitating and life altering condition. For some people leaving home and the close proximity of a bathroom is out of the question. But no matter what the symptom severity IBS is painful, embarrassing and deemed “incurable” by the conventional medical community.

What are IBS symptoms?

•Abdominal cramping
•Abdominal bloating and gas
•Constipation (The inability to pass fecal matter which collects in the colon/The hardening of stool resulting in pellet-like stools which are difficult to pass/Infrequent or irregular movement of bowels)
•Diarrhea (Watery stool with the sudden urge to go)
•A combination of constipation and diarrhea which tend to alternate
•The passing of mucus with the bowel movement
•When the bowels are moved, the feeling of not being “finished”


The cause of IBS appears to be linked to the nervous system, but there can be other contributors as well. The GI (gastro intestinal) tract like the brain, heart and lungs is an essential part of our harmonious functioning as human beings. Unfortunately it is not common in our Western culture to exalt the colon as the giver of life that it is. Yet the GI tract is most amazingly connected with the brain with an intricate network of nerves. The colon and the brain are in constant communication with one another. The gut may not have won the most romantic of titles, but it truly is our second “brain.” We are familiar with the term “gut feeling” and often do take the implications seriously and respect that the gut is a phenomenal informant. It can detect warning signs and symptoms and let us know when something is “wrong” both externally and internally.

Like the heart and lungs, the colon is directly affected by the nervous system. We inescapably feel this is true when we get the jitters, or “butterflies.” In those affected by IBS this feeling can set off the colon motility (the undulating flow of movement) which normally has a healthy rhythm, into a set of painful spasms. Normally the colon absorbs and distributes balanced amounts of water and nutrients. But when the colon’s natural rhythm is compromised its balance is thrown off and symptoms become evident. Cramping occurs and the stool becomes too dry or too wet. The mucus colon lining (epithelium) becomes disturbed. The bowel then literally becomes “irritable” and cannot eliminate toxins. This can set off a domino affect of new health problems, emotional problems and lifestyle issues.

The result of IBS is a demoralizing stigmatic condition and response system that spirals into feelings of alienation and lack of control over ones life: But “incurable?” I strongly disagree. When treated with care the body has the incredible ability to heal. In up coming articles I will be discussing ways that you can take your health back by taking control of your life without medications! I did, and my IBS is all but cured.

*Please know that I am not a medical doctor or a health practitioner. I cannot diagnose your stomach problems nor can I guarantee a cure. I am here to share my knowledge, which applications have worked for me and to offer suggestions of where you may go physically, emotionally and spiritually for healing and self-empowerment. If you choose to explore alternative medicine, do not independently stop taking your prescribed medications. Always consult with your current doctor as well as your new practitioner when changing your medical program.