Bitter substances for irritable bowel syndrome - All information!

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common condition. A study [1] from Belgium found that about 70% of all respondents reported having digestive problems. Typical symptoms include bloating, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome itself. In Germany, a study by Barmer meanwhile found that a full 17% of Germans probably suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. Something must be done about this.

Signs and Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Classic symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include abdominal pain, especially if it persists for a period of three months. This symptom, combined with bloating, diarrhea, or similar problems, usually clearly indicates the syndrome. Naturally, this is accompanied by a loss of quality of life.

However, irritable bowel syndrome can manifest in many ways, with numerous other symptoms suggesting its presence. For this reason, a visit to the doctor is essential. The doctor will proceed by exclusion and categorically rule out other possible diseases.

In addition to the medical history, the doctor will conduct further examinations such as a gastrointestinal endoscopy, ultrasound, and blood tests. If one or more of the following points apply to you, it is time to see a doctor:

• Cramping abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Bloated abdomen, feeling of fullness
• Bloating
• Heartburn
• Feeling that the bowel is not completely emptied

Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Today, we know very little about the causes of the syndrome. While psychosomatic causes were previously assumed, this is no longer considered valid. Nevertheless, it is interesting that irritable bowel syndrome statistically occurs more often in people with psychological issues such as anxiety disorders or depression. The presence of one complaint increases the likelihood of others occurring in turn.

In any case, the nerves in the digestive system of affected individuals seem to be hypersensitive. People with irritable bowel syndrome begin to feel even the slightest movements in their intestines. People with irritable bowel syndrome are therefore more aware of their digestion than those without. This explains their sensitivity.

Japanese researchers discovered this in a top-class experiment. They inserted a kind of balloon into the digestive tract through the anus and slowly inflated it with air. People with irritable bowel syndrome felt the balloon much earlier than control subjects. [2]

Numerous studies have identified several factors that can promote irritable bowel syndrome. Possible causes include infections in the digestive tract. Prolonged stress is also considered a risk factor, possibly especially if it occurs in childhood. This is attributed to changes in our gut flora.

There is also evidence that irritable bowel syndrome can be prevented by allowing certain bacterial cultures in the digestive system that produce butyric acid to work unhindered. This butyric acid is said to make the intestine less sensitive, which is why, for example, bitters (link) can be helpful in this context. These can help the gut flora find balance.

What to Do for Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

First and foremost, you should get a clear diagnosis. Some doctors believe that often it is not irritable bowel syndrome itself but rather small intestinal bacterial overgrowth causing the symptoms. In that case, a completely different therapy is required than for irritable bowel syndrome, so the correct diagnosis is crucial.

One approach is microbiotic treatment. Here, the doctor examines your gut flora and tries to restore its balance. Sometimes bacteria from the digestive tract, where they should be, “escape.” This miscolonization quickly causes problems.

Otherwise, lifestyle changes are necessary. Our gut health is linked to regular physical activity, good sleep, and minimal stress. The amount of water consumed daily also appears critical for the development of the syndrome.

Make sure not to snack throughout the day. Three larger meals should be sufficient. Our digestive system begins a cleansing process after 90 minutes without food intake. This process is immediately interrupted when you eat or drink something.

Psychological therapies can also be beneficial. Typical methods include cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, or gut hypnosis.

Bitters Against Irritable Bowel Syndrome – A Secret Weapon?

The high prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome is partly linked to the fact that our diet contains fewer and fewer bitters. For decades, these bitters have been bred out of our fruits and vegetables to achieve a “better,” sweeter taste.

However, these bitters fulfill very important functions for our body. We have about 120 hormones that act in our digestive system. Their production and regulation are well supported by bitters. Healthy bowel function and especially a healthy gut flora therefore depend on bitters.

A nice side effect of increased consumption of bitters is that our appetite is regulated, so bitters can help with weight loss. Binge eating can promote irritable bowel syndrome, and bitters can help counteract this.

Bitters alone do not make a healthy and varied diet. Additionally, you should pay attention to consuming as many fibers and nutrients as possible. These are needed by your body to function healthily and smoothly. Sugar and flour, on the other hand, are enemies of a healthy diet and also promote the development of irritable bowel syndrome.

Teas are also often recommended by doctors for irritable bowel syndrome. Many bitters and other beneficial secondary plant compounds are contained in our organic monastery tea.

Final Thoughts

If you experience symptoms that could be related to irritable bowel syndrome, you should see your doctor sooner rather than later. Since the causes of irritable bowel syndrome are only vaguely known and it is therefore difficult to treat the cause rather than the symptoms, it helps to start therapy as early as possible. Then you have plenty of time to find out what works for you. Usually, those affected try several therapeutic approaches with their doctors until they find the right mix.

Sources

[1] More than 20% of this population suffer from irritable bowel syndrome

[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4696535/