Series: Does TCM Address...PT. 3 IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (a.k.a. IBS, spastic colon or mucus colitis)?

IBS is a motility disorder that involves the small and large intestine that is associated with varying degrees of constipation or diarrhea, bloating, abdominal cramping and pain. It is called a functional bowel disorder in conventional medicine because there is no known structural, biochemical, or infectious cause. It is usually triggered by emotional factors such as stress, after eating specific, inflammatory foods, medications or hormones. The pain is usually relieved after passing a bowel movement.

Why do I constantly feel sick with a diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Our digestive system is also our immune system based on traditional Chinese medicine. If we have good digestion without bloating, gas, indigestion, reflux, or constipation, we move closer to health. Without good digestion we constantly feel sick, catch cold’s and flu’s easily and lack energy. It’s because our immune system is working overtime dealing with gut inflammation rather than helping prevent illness. A host of related symptoms including headache, nausea, depression, anxiety or poor concentration can accompany digestive issues.

What is the natural treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Acupuncture has been shown to help balance the digestive system without the need to take anything orally. There are acupuncture points designed to ease intestinal spasms, improve digestion, and harmonize the movement of food through the intestine. If tolerated, herbal medicine and whole food supplements are used to increase the secretion of digestive enzymes, bile and stomach acids to completely break down foods and prevent partially digested food from proceeding further down the small intestine causing inflammation. Stress relieving exercises with abdominal breathing like Tai chi or Qi gong can help reduce stress hormones and enhance relaxation.

The use of natural medicine to eliminate painful gastrointestinal disorders can be cost effective, prevent medication side effects, strengthen, and feed the body. Some of the most effective forms of healing the body are also some of the simplest. The key to treating IBS is taking an interest in its prevention. Seeking the advice of a natural physician experienced in nutrition, exercise and herbal medicine can empower an individual with the knowledge to improve and prevent this painful, often debilitating, disease.

Consider trying a different, more natural approach to health with traditional Chinese medicine. Click here to schedule your complimentary consultation, or simply contact our office at (772) 398-4550! Wishing you the best of health!

Dr. Stuart Shipe, D.A.O.M., R.Ph.