Hi friends! If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re tired of the bloating, cramping, and all the other delightful surprises irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) throws your way. As a naturopath with almost 30 years of experience, I’ve seen countless patients struggle with IBS symptoms, only to discover that true relief comes not from a quick fix but from addressing the root cause.
So, let’s talk about how to resolve IBS permanently with natural remedies, dietary shifts, and a little love for your gut.
Understanding IBS: More Than Just a Sensitive Stomach
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gut disorder affecting the digestive tract, often causing bloating, diarrhea, constipation, cramping, and discomfort. It’s a tricky condition because it doesn’t show up on a scan like other diseases, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t real! The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) classifies IBS as a chronic condition, meaning it can stick around if you don’t take the right approach.
The good news? IBS is treatable, and for many, it’s completely resolvable with the right lifestyle, diet, and natural medicine.
The Root Causes of IBS: Why Does Your Gut Misbehave?
The key to resolving IBS permanently is understanding what’s throwing your gut off balance. While IBS symptoms vary from person to person, common underlying causes include:
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Gut Dysbiosis: An imbalance of good and bad bacteria in your colon can trigger IBS symptoms.
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Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): This condition occurs when bacteria migrate to the small intestine, leading to bloating and discomfort.
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Food Sensitivities: Common culprits include dairy, gluten, and high-FODMAP foods.
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Stress & Anxiety: Your gut and brain are deeply connected, so stress can wreak havoc on your bowel health.
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Inflammation & Leaky Gut: Chronic gut inflammation leads to irritation and worsens symptoms.
Now, let’s talk about “treating” IBS naturally and getting you on the road to permanent relief! In my opinion, I never treat any disease! It’s all about restoring the dysfunction and bringing balance where it has been lost.
Step 1: Heal Your Gut with the Right Diet
A strong gut starts with the right fuel. One of the best diets for IBS relief is the Low-FODMAP Diet, which eliminates fermentable carbohydrates that feed bad bacteria. Many clinical trials have shown its effectiveness in reducing IBS symptoms.
Here’s what to include:
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Low-FODMAP fruits (bananas, blueberries, strawberries)
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Lean proteins (chicken, turkey, fish)
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Non-starchy vegetables (zucchini, spinach, carrots)
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Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, coconut oil)
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Fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir)
Here’s what to avoid:
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Dairy (can trigger inflammation)
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Gluten (often worsens symptoms)
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Processed sugars (bad for gut bacteria)
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Artificial sweeteners (they can irritate the gut lining)
Step 2: Balance Your Gut Bacteria with Probiotics
One of my favorite IBS remedies is probiotics! These beneficial bacteria help treat IBS by balancing gut flora and improving digestion. Look for strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which have been widely researched in IBS clinical trials.
For extra gut love, add prebiotic-rich foods like garlic, onions, and asparagus to feed those good bacteria.
You may also consider supplementing with my Ful-Biotic formula, which is designed to give you all of the key probiotics your body needs.
Step 3: Support Your Digestive System with Natural Remedies
Beyond diet, there are plenty of natural ways to relieve IBS symptoms and heal your gut. Some of my go-to recommendations include:
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Digestive Enzymes: Help break down food and reduce bloating.
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Peppermint Oil: A natural antispasmodic that soothes the intestines.
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Aloe Vera Juice: Helps heal inflammation in the gut lining.
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Slippery Elm & Marshmallow Root: These herbs coat and protect the digestive tract, easing irritation.
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Bone Broth: Packed with collagen and amino acids to repair the gut lining.
Step 4: Address Stress and Emotional Well-Being
Your gut and brain are best buddies, constantly chatting through the gut-brain axis. Chronic stress and anxiety can trigger IBS symptoms, making it crucial to find ways to relax.
Here are a few science-backed ways to reduce stress:
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Meditation & Deep Breathing: Calms the nervous system.
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Exercise: A gentle walk after meals can do wonders!
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Adaptogenic Herbs: Ashwagandha and Rhodiola can support stress resilience.
Step 5: Work with a Knowledgeable Provider
Every gut is unique, and oftentimes, personalized treatment is needed to fully cure IBS permanently. If you suspect an underlying issue like SIBO, food sensitivities, or another digestive condition, working with a qualified naturopath can help uncover the right health plan for you.
You are welcome to reach out to me through my virtual clinic, Spirit Way Medicine. We offer a wide range of support for those recovering from IBS.
Can IBS Be Resolved Permanently? Yes, If You Address the Root Cause!
The mainstream medical approach often relies on medications that only manage symptoms. But in my practice, I’ve seen countless patients achieve permanent relief by addressing the root causes of IBS through diet, lifestyle changes, and natural remedies.
If you’re ready to take charge of your gut health, start with small, consistent changes and be kind to yourself in the process. Healing takes time, but I promise, a happy gut is well worth the effort!