Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

 

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine or colon. Its symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea, which vary in frequency and severity.

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Complex genetic, environmental, and psychological interactions contribute to IBS. Some triggers for the condition may include certain foods, stress, hormones, and changes in the gut microbiome.

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What causes Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

IBS is a complex condition with various underlying sources. Although the direct cause is unknown, several factors contributing to its development are recognized. Some common causes of IBS include abnormalities in the digestive tract, psychological factors, inflammation, genetics, and food sensitivities.

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IBS may be due to abnormalities in the digestive tract. These abnormalities can affect how food travels through the digestive tract, causing symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

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Psychological factors, including stress, anxiety, and depression, can also contribute to IBS. These factors affect how the brain communicates with the digestive system, leading to disorder symptoms.

 

Inflammation in the digestive tract can also contribute to the condition. Damage to the intestinal lining produces symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhea. Genetics and certain foods, including dairy products, gluten, and spicy foods, can cause IBS symptoms.

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What are the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

There are various symptoms of IBS, including abdominal pain, discomfort, bloating, gas, mucus in stool, nausea, fatigue, and changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea and constipation.

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IBS symptoms can resemble other digestive disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and colon cancer. Seeking medical care for accurate diagnosis and proper treatment is crucial if experiencing these conditions.

 

How is Irritable Bowel Syndrome treated?

Although there is no cure for IBS, several treatment options are available to help manage its symptoms. Treatment approaches include dietary modifications, stress management, medications, exercise, and alternative therapies.

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Certain foods can cause IBS in some individuals. Documenting food intake can help identify and avoid symptom triggers. A low-FODMAP diet, which limits certain types of carbohydrates that can cause digestive issues, may also reduce complications. Medications are used depending on the predominant symptoms. For example, antispasmodics help to relieve abdominal cramping, while laxatives can help relieve constipation. Probiotics are also beneficial for a healthy gut microbiome.

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Stress can cause inflammation within the body, which stimulates IBS symptoms. Stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or therapy, may aid in decreasing inflammation. Regular physical activity helps relieve stress and improve bowel function. Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, hypnotherapy, or herbal remedies, can also help reduce IBS symptoms.

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How does Irritable Bowel Syndrome affect brain wellness?

IBS is primarily associated with digestive symptoms. It can also have a profound effect on brain wellness. Managing IBS symptoms and improving gut health through diet, exercise, and stress management may help to improve brain and emotional wellness.

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The brain-gut axis is a vital bidirectional communication system between the gut and the brain. IBS can disrupt this communication, leading to brain function and structure changes. Studies have linked altered brain activity in regions involved in processing pain and emotion, such as the amygdala, insula, and prefrontal cortex, with IBS symptoms.

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IBS is also associated with a higher risk of anxiety and depression, which detrimentally affects brain wellness. Chronic stress and negative emotions can alter brain function and structure, leading to mood, cognition, and behavior changes.

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Sleep disturbances are common conditions experienced with IBS and can negatively impact brain wellness. Sleep is essential for physical and mental health. Sleep disruptions can lead to cognitive impairment, mood changes, and other health problems.

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Additionally, IBS can affect nutrient absorption, leading to deficiencies in essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, magnesium, and iron. These deficiencies can affect brain function and contribute to fatigue, cognitive impairment, and mood changes.

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How can Brain Frequency™ help?

The Brain Frequency™ AI system is an innovative therapeutic approach to improving brain health and wellness. We use proprietary science-based technology to promote optimal brain functioning across mental, emotional, physical, and social domains. Our diagnostic technology and individualized treatment protocols help decrease or eliminate trauma-related symptoms and various mental health disorders.

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The Brain Frequency™ 3 Step Treatment Process consists of; first, performing a Baseline EEG and completing Psychometric Assessments; second, conducting a Brain Frequency Consultation; and third, Initiating Treatment.

An Electroencephalogram (EEG) analyzes brain waves and produces a brain map identifying current and optimal frequencies in 19 areas of the brain. Based on the individualized brain map, Brain Frequency™ will determine possible diagnoses of various mental health disorders or brain trauma for the provider to consider during treatment. Brain Frequency™ AI software provides clinicians with an "Approval Ready" treatment plan using personalized protocols based on each patient's needs.

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Those suffering from symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can efficiently and effectively improve their brain health and wellness by using the Brain Frequency™ AI system. Our innovative system drastically reduces the time needed to properly diagnose and construct treatment plans leading to a faster recovery and greater quality of life.

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RESOURCES

 

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/

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Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA): https://www.hrsa.gov/

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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): https://www.nimh.nih.gov/

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Center For Disease Control & Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/

American Psychological Association (APA): https://www.apa.org/

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National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.nih.gov/

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National Suicide Prevention Line: https://988lifeline.org/

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National Library of Medicine: https://medlineplus.gov/

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Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/

 

WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/