Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects about 25-35 million people in the United States. It can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and other potential symptoms on a regular basis. That said, ongoing research continues to inform health experts about the realities of this condition. 

It can be difficult to distinguish the facts from the myths regarding IBS, though. If you believe one or more things that are actually false, you cheat yourself out of getting proper treatment for the condition. That’s why this article aims to tell the truths about common IBS myths. 

Myth 1: Leaky Gut Causes IBS

The gut has a protective barrier that prevents harmful substances from entering. Leaky gut syndrome occurs when that barrier is somewhat broken down. Although some studies indicate a connection between leaky gut syndrome and IBS, there is no conclusion on whether or not it is a direct cause. Leaky gut syndrome is hypothetical at this point because it is not recognized as a medical diagnosis. That means that treatments for leaky gut may not work on IBS symptoms. In fact, experts think that leaky gut syndrome is a potential side effect of common inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. 

Myth 2: IBD And IBS Are The Same

Not only are they not the same, but they are also not interchangeable. IBS and IBD are two distinct conditions and although they can have similar symptoms, they differ in how they begin and how doctors treat them. IBS is a function gastrointestinal (GI) condition, meaning that symptoms occur because of the way the GI tract functions. IBD, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, triggers chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. It is more serious and can lead to cuts in the gut lining and ulcers. 

Myth 3: IBS Isn’t A Big Deal

IBS can affect overall quality of life, as symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, changes in bowel habits, and more. That is why this condition can induce physical discomfort, psychological distress, and social isolation. You also have to understand IBS has an unpredictability factor, in that flares can worsen symptoms and feelings of anxiety. A 2023 study found that IBS was associated with an increase in health care costs, including visits to hospitals and mental health clinics. 

Myth 4: IBS Is All In Your Head

It is highly inaccurate to say that IBS is all in your head. Although the psychological distress can worsen symptoms, IBS is a real GI disorder characterized by bloating, altered bowel habits, and abdominal pain. Many biological factors can contribute to IBS, including changes in gut bacteria, changes in gut mobility, visceral hypersensitivity, and genetics. Like many other conditions, though, mental health plays a role in IBS. Anxiety can worsen symptoms and a strong social support system and great mental health can ease some IBS symptoms. 

Myth 5: Fiber Cures IBS

There is no current cure for IBS and the condition’s symptoms can vary from person to person. Treatment, for this reason, is signature to each person’s needs. Fiber can help people with IBS manage symptoms, though. People with IBS-D may benefit from consuming more soluble fiber, which works to absorb water and add bulk to stool. Oatmeal, legumes, psyllium husk, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are great sources of soluble fiber. Insoluble fiber, which accelerates the movement of waste through the digestive tract, may improve symptoms of people with IBS-C. Great sources of insoluble fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, wheat brain, and nuts. 

Myth 6: People With IBS Can Never Eat “Trigger Foods”

It is true that certain foods can trigger IBS symptoms more than others, but it can be helpful to think of your tolerance to certain foods like a bucket. The size of the bucket will be different for everyone. Some people have larger buckets than others, meaning they can tolerate more foods that are classic IBS triggers, such as caffeine, spicy foods, and high-fat foods. People with smaller buckets tend to have a lower threshold for IBS trigger foods. The bottom line is that some people with IBS can tolerate more trigger foods than others.

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Do you remember the famous book, Everyone Poops? It teaches children that all creatures in the animal world, including humans, deal with the products of digestion. Most people don’t want to discuss this topic, or the topic of digestive problems. This is interesting when you consider that digestive disease continues to rise among American adults. In fact, a 2021 report found that 62 million Americans are diagnosed with a digestive disorder each year. 

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract consists of the mouth, stomach, and intestines. Along with the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, these organs work in unison to absorb nutrients and expel waste. If these natural processes are disturbed, it’s possible to experience a range of symptoms. Many symptoms pass and pose little risk to your health, but common digestive issues can often indicate several common digestive disorders. Read on to learn about the most common digestive disorders. If you suspect that you have one of these problems, consult with your doctor to take action. 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine (colon). It is characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to a combination of factors, including abnormalities in the muscles of the intestine, changes in the balance of bacteria in the gut, and sensitivity to certain foods. There is a growing body of research on IBS, including studies on its causes, risk factors, and treatment options. Some potential treatment options for IBS include dietary changes, medications, and stress management techniques. If you are experiencing symptoms of IBS, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the digestive tract. The condition is characterized by inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract, which can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. Health experts are still unsure of the exact cause of Crohn’s disease, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune factors. A growing body of research on Crohn’s disease includes studies on its causes, risk factors, and treatment options. Some people choose conventional treatment options, while others prefer to use natural remedies to manage symptoms. Should you think you have Crohn’s disease, speak with your healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis and discuss treatment options.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus that can affect digestion in several ways. One of the primary symptoms of hemorrhoids is painless bleeding during bowel movements. In rare cases, heavy or prolonged bleeding can lead to anemia. Hemorrhoids can also cause itching, swelling, and irritation around the anus, which can be uncomfortable and interfere with the normal process of defecation. In some cases, the presence of hemorrhoids can make it difficult to have a bowel movement, leading to constipation. Lastly, it’s possible that hemorrhoids may be associated with other digestive disorders like IBD.

Diverticulitis 

There are small bulging pouches that can form in the lining of the digestive system, most often in the colon or large intestine, and these are called diverticula. The formation of these sacs is referred to as diverticulosis, but having diverticula does not indicate diverticulitis. If the diverticula become inflamed, then this is considered diverticulitis. People with diverticulitis will most commonly experience severe abdominal pain or a change in bowel habits. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, irregular bowel movements, fever, vomiting, or constipation. Similar to other digestive disorders, there is no singular or specific cause; however, the formation of diverticula can be attributed to a low-fiber diet, which can lead to constipation. This increased pressure in the colon may lead to the development of diverticula. 

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) occurs when acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus. It can sometimes get to the point when stomach acid rises into the throat and disturbs the tissues. The primary reason for this occurrence is if the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) isn’t functioning properly. Rapid weight gain, medication, lifestyle, diet, and pregnancy (occasionally) can also lead to the development of GERD. There are many natural remedies to help minimize symptoms, and you can learn about them by clicking here.  

Ulcerative Colitis 

Ulcerative colitis is a common IBD that causes ulcers or long-lasting inflammation in the digestive tract. This condition affects the inner lining to the rectum and large intestine and is closely related to Crohn’s Disease. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition and while there isn’t a known cure, there are several options to help reduce symptoms and achieve long-term remission. Maintaining a healthy diet is often the first order of business to help reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis. It is also wise to avoid sugar, exercise regularly to reduce inflammation, and consider supplementing with herbs like slippery elm, as it may help calm inflamed bowels. 

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Farting or passing gas is a natural part of life, even though it may be a little embarrassing, especially in an office or elevator. Most people don’t think twice about their farts, as flatulence is the byproduct of the digestive system breaking down food and nutrients. When you chew, eat, and swallow, gas builds up in the gastrointestinal tract. The body is able to absorb some of this gas, and it releases what it can’t absorb in the form of burps or farts. 

As much as you don’t want to admit it, farting is a good thing, as it helps you avoid gas build up in the digestive system. When too much gas builds up in the body, you can experience bloating and uncomfortable stomach pain. Just because passing gas feels good and helps you avoid bloating, you shouldn’t ignore your farts. Health experts encourage people to pay attention to frequency, smell, and whether or not they accompany other digestive symptoms. Your farts can clue you in to what’s going on with your health. Continue reading to learn what they are trying to tell you.

Scent-Free Farts

These are the dream, right? To tell you the truth, most gas is odorless and stems from swallowing air, according to gastroenterologists. If you inhale your food quickly, chew wads of gum, or drink a lot of carbonated beverages, it is very common to pass gas or burp. This is normal, but if you want to reduce the amount of flatulence you produce, consider dialing back your carbonated beverage intake. Additionally, eat more slowly and make sure that you chew your food thoroughly. 

Your Farts Smell So Bad

As stated previously, most gas is odorless, but every now and again, a fart is so powerful that it can clear a room. If your farts stink to high heaven, it’s time to look at your diet. Consuming lots of sulfur-rich foods, including Brussels sprouts and broccoli, can give your farts that rotten egg aroma. The same stench that comes from those cruciferous vegetables can also come from cheese, beans, dried fruit, wine, garlic, and onions. More often than not, you don’t have to worry, but you may want to see a doctor if the stink persists. The last thing you want is for irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease to be the culprit. 

You Fart And Poop More Often Than Normal

Stress can affect so many areas of your health, which means it can affect your digestive system as well. Health experts say that people under a lot of stress tend to have poor digestion. Oftentimes, this stems from eating late-night snacks, processed foods, and lots of air that you swallow unintentionally. Anxiety can also do a number on your digestive tract. If you feel that you are farting and eliminating more than usual, ask yourself if you are stressed. If you find that you are battling stress, take time to relax with meditative techniques. Use aromatherapy, meditation, deep breathing, and other relaxing practices to get your digestive tract back and eating habits to normal. 

Burning Farts

If it burns going in, then it burns going out. Eating too much spicy food can have a severe effect on your digestive tract. The body contains receptors that recognize capsaicin, the compound in chiles that gives them their spice. That means that the body recognizes capsaicin as heat, so cut down on the spice if you want to pass gas that doesn’t burn on the way out. Spicy foods can also cause diarrhea, which can irritate the anus. Gradually up your fiber intake and allow your body a few days to adjust. 

Smelly Farts And Digestive Distress

If you feel abdominal pain when you pass gas, then a food intolerance may be the culprit. For example, if you drink milk or eat cheese and feel cramps and experience lots of flatulence that wreaks, you have lactose intolerance. That means that your body cannot absorb lactose until it gets to the small intestine. Bacteria break it down there and the body releases foul-smelling farts as a result. If you have stomach pain and pass smelly farts but don’t know what the culprit is, consider taking a food allergy test to see what isn’t agreeing with your system.

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Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes irritation or swelling in the digestive tract. Affecting over half a million Americans, Crohn’s disease can trigger diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, and cramps. Depending on the person and the severity of the condition, inflammation can occur in different areas of the digestive tract. If left unchecked, inflammation can spread to deeper layers of the bowel tissues. 

If you have Crohn’s disease, you know that flare-ups can feel incapacitating. Not only do flare-ups interrupt your life, but they can also make you feel miserable. Furthermore, it’s possible to worsen flare-ups by choosing the wrong foods. Although there isn’t a specific Crohn’s diet, there are foods that patients should avoid. Some foods may trigger flare-ups or give the gut general discomfort. 

According to dietitians and health experts, the following foods are thought to trigger Crohn’s flare-ups. This isn’t to say that these foods trigger reactions in every person with the condition. Some people may have to keep a food journal or experiment to see which foods make the gut happy. Generally speaking, though, the following foods can trigger Crohn’s flare-ups. 

Popcorn

This classic movie snack is often doused in butter, and it happens to be rich in fiber. Unfortunately, both fiber and fat (butter) are common Crohn’s triggers. More often than not, people with Crohn’s are better off consuming low-fat diets that don’t include a lot of fibrous foods. It’s possible that some people can enjoy a small amount of popcorn with no butter during remissions, but most claim that popcorn worsens existing symptoms. 

Fruit Skin

Fruit skin can irritate the gut, regardless of whether a person has Crohn’s or not. Some people with sensitive digestive systems can benefit from peeling all their fruit. The skin can irritate the gut’s lining, which causes a flare-up. 

Sweeteners

Every person should know how to identify sweeteners on ingredient labels. It’s very easy for people to overlook them because they aren’t aware of the names. Maltitol, xylitol, and sorbitol are all added sweeteners that are poorly absorbed by the body. This can cause bloating, gas, or diarrhea. That’s why it’s best for Crohn’s patients to avoid fruit juices, sodas, or any gums and candies that contain “sugar alcohols.”

Nuts & Seeds

Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. That’s exactly why both of them are not recommended for people with Crohn’s disease. Many people with Crohn’s cannot properly digest them, which causes irritation to the lining in the gut. Some people, however, can tolerate ground nuts and seeds. If you have Crohn’s and are willing to experiment, start out with smooth almond butter or tahini. 

Dairy Products

There are many people with Crohn’s that have no problem consuming dairy products. If the person experiences symptoms that may indicate a flare-up, though, it’s best to steer clear of dairy. Lactose is a natural sugar found in milk and dairy products. It commonly causes abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, and bloating, and that’s not specific to Crohn’s patients. Try lactose-free alternatives or simply avoid whole milk, sour cream, ice cream, and other similar dairy products when a flare-up occurs. 

Cigarettes

This doesn’t necessarily fall under the “food” umbrella, but the smoke, nicotine, and chemicals still enter the body. A review of 33 studies found that the severity of Crohn’s disease decreased after people stoped smoking cigarettes. Smoking constricts blood vessels, which causes inadequate oxygen flow and nutrition to the intestines. Health experts theorize that this increases biochemical mediators of inflammation, causing harm to the digestive system. 

Not everyone with Crohn’s disease experiences the same reactions to common food triggers. If you live with Crohn’s, you may have to go through a trial and error stage of testing foods to see how you react to them. Keep a food journal and jot down what you experience after eating certain foods. You can click here if you want to learn more about foods that are beneficial for Crohn’s patients. 

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Being intolerant to gluten is a lot more common than people realize. A person could live his or her entire life with gluten intolerance without being diagnosed, and never fix the problem. Almost 15% of Americans are allergic to gluten or have gluten sensitivity. Celiac disease, which affects about 1% of the American population, is the most severe form of gluten intolerance.

There are many signs that indicate an intolerance to gluten. The body lets you know when it doesn’t have a good reaction to something you eat. Sometimes the best way to figure this out is by eliminating foods from your diet for 21 days, and then reintroducing those foods one at a time. Upon reintroduction to those foods, you can see if your body reacts negatively. Pay attention to the following signs when you eat gluten to know whether or not you have gluten intolerance.

Abdominal Pain

This is probably the most common symptom of gluten intolerance. In fact, 83% of people who are intolerant to gluten experience abdominal pain or discomfort after consuming gluten products.

Bloating

Bloating describes a swollen belly, due to gas, water retention, or eating way too much. While bloating can have a variety of causes, feeling bloated is a common complaint of gluten-intolerant people.

Fibromyalgia

A lot of people with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue typically have gluten intolerance and don’t realize it. If you are diagnosed with either of these conditions, make sure to ask your health care practitioner if a gluten allergy could be the cause. Make sure to get tested.

Headaches

Headaches are obviously not a unique symptom, as they can be symptoms of many conditions. Gluten-intolerant people are about 10-12% more likely to experience migraines. If you have migraines that are accompanied by daily diarrhea, low iron count, and a skin rash, you may very well be gluten-intolerant.

Joint & Muscle Pain

Sore joints and muscles may have numerous causes; however, gluten-intolerant people who consume gluten may cause inflammation or widespread pain in muscles and joints. Pay attention to how your joints or muscles feel next time you eat gluten.

Skin Problems

Dermatitis is a very common skin manifestation for those with celiac disease. This is a blistering condition that can be the result of consuming gluten. Several studies have shown that consuming a gluten-free diet has helped to improve psoriasis, alopecia, and chronic urticaria (skin condition with itchy, pink lesions).

Constipation or Diarrhea

If you are constipated or experience diarrhea once in a while, you have no reason to be concerned. Because gluten actually damages the gut lining and can lead to poor nutrient absorption, consuming gluten can result in frequent diarrhea or constipation. Over 50% of gluten-sensitive people experience diarrhea and about 25% experience constipation. People with celiac disease typically experience pale or foul-smelling feces, which stems from nutrient absorption.

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If you could drastically improve your overall health by massaging one point on your body, would you do it? If you answered “no” to that question, we don’t know why you did. The answer should have been, “Absolutely! Yes, Dherbs! I’ll take this info now, please.” Massaging this one point every day can decrease stress levels, improve your sleep, and help improve several other bodily functions that are detailed below.

There is an acupressure point on the lower inside of the leg called San Yin Jiao. To find this point, you have to locate the top of the ankle on the inside of your leg. Move four fingers up the leg and firmly massage that area. You should feel your tibia bone and continue massaging for about five to ten minutes at a time. If you are pregnant, do not massage this point because it may induce labor.

Activation of Ovaries & Uterus

Just how massaging this point may induce labor, it can also help a woman conceive. By stimulating the function of the ovaries and the uterus, you can improve your chances of getting pregnant.

Improved Libido

By massaging the Sin Yin Jiao point, you can help balance your hormonal levels and you will feel like your libido has improved.

Bloating Relief

Retaining water weight, being gassy, or being bloated can disrupt proper digestive function. Massage this point to smooth out the gastrointestinal tract and to help flush out water weight.

Additional Relief To

• Urinary dysfunction
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Digestion
• Abdominal pain

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Crohn’s Disease is medically defined as: “A chronic inflammatory bowel disease of unknown origin, usually affecting the ileum, the colon, or both structures. Diseased segments may be separated by normal segments.” Mosby’s Medical Dictionary, 3rd ed., p. 321 “Crohn’s disease is characterized by frequent attacks of diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, nausea, fever, chills, weakness, anorexia, and weight loss. Children with the disease often suffer retarded physical growth. The diagnosis of Crohn’s disease is based on clinical signs, x-ray studies using a contrast medium, and endoscopy. The disease is easily confused with ulcerative colitis, which is also an inflammatory bowel disease affecting the colon and rectum.” Ibid.

Anal fistulas are very common in cases of Crohn’s Disease. An anal fistula is: “An abnormal opening on the cutaneous surface near the anus, usually resulting from a local crypt abscess. Also called Fistula in ano.” Mosby’s supra.

Because Crohn’s Disease is known as ‘ileocolitis’, it is characterized by inflammation of the ileum section of the colon.

Causes and Risk Factors

Though Western medicine openly admits their ignorance as to what causes Chron’s disease, it is most likely caused by a constipated mind, poor diet and excessive lifestyle.

Because Crohn’s Disease deals with inflammation in the colon, it is a disease physically caused by MUCUS due to excess ACIDITY in the body, the colon in particular. All inflammation is caused by extreme acidity (acidosis), which is created by the breakdown and byproduct of meat, dairy products, refined grains refined starches, and a host of other things that have no business in the human body.

Symptoms

Crohn’s Disease is most commonly indicated by these symptoms:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• General weakness
• Anorexia or weight loss

The diarrhea aspect of Crohn’s Disease is the body attempting to pass hardened fecal matter via process of liquefying the stools, a process that robs sodium from the body.

The abdominal pain aspect of Crohn’s Disease stems from old gas pockets in the colon opening up releasing gas, causing severe spasms. The body is simply attempting to heal itself, but of course to the Western human mind, healing is considered sickness or a problem and must be interfered with.

The fever aspect of Crohn’s Disease is the body raising its own heat level or temperature so as to effectuate healing via hyperthermia that induces sweating, which is very therapeutic.

The weakness aspect of Crohn’s Disease is indicated by the body’s attempt to heal itself. People don’t move around as much when they feel weak so many times the body induces a feeling of weakness to keep people steady and still so healing can effectively take place. The mind has a tendency to operate on its own and many people will convince themselves via the mind that instead of lying in bed all day to allow optimal healing, they instead should be up doing things, working, making some money, cleaning up around the house, etc.

The anorexia and weight loss aspect of Chrons Disease stems from necrosis, whereby the cells begin to attack the body by eating away at the body.

HEALING CROHN’S DISEASE NATURALLY

Herbs

Herbs can stimulate peristalsis and help tone, strengthen, nourish and repair the intestinal tract. Herbs that help remedy or prevent Crohn’s Disease include all cathartic and laxative herbs such as Senna Leaf/Pods, Cascara Sagrada, Aloe Vera Resin, Glucomannan, Buckthorn, Trifala, Bibitaki, Bilwa, and Ipecac Root.

Catalyst family herbs such as Cayenne, Ginger, Cloves, and Cinnamon are also helpful in cases of Crohn’s because they facilitate a fever; not breaking it, but working with it. They can also help to naturally break chills and counter nausea, especially Ginger.

Antispasmodic herbs are also beneficial for Crohn’s Disease. These herbs include Cramp Bark, Wild Yam, and Black Haw. They address and resolve painful spasms.

Nutritive herbs are also important in remedying Crohn’s Disease. A nutritive herb provides nutrition to the body. Nutritive herbs are usually rich in minerals, vitamins, B-vitamins, and amino acids (protein). Nutritive herbs include Moringa Seed, Irish Moss, Spirulina, Alfalfa, Chlorella, Blue Green algae, Suma, Dulse, Sheep Sorrell, Kelp, Barley Grass, and Wheat Grass.

These individual herbs help to counter anorexia and involuntary weight loss which are usually present in cases of Crohn’s Disease.

Carminative herbs are also recommended for Crohn’s Disease. These herbs soothe the digestive system and include Cardamom, Chamomile, Anise Seed, Fennel Seed, and Caraway Seed.

Crystals

Crystal elixir of Carnelian is very helpful in cases of Crohn’s Disease. No other crystal impacts the colon to the degree that Carnelian does. A crystal elixir is made by placing a crystal in distilled water for 24 hours (overnight, for the moon’s influence on the elixir). After 24 hours, the elixir can be drunk (1-4 ounces per day).

Sea salt

Because diarrhea is associated with Crohn’s Disease, sodium loss is inevitable as diarrhea causes sodium to be lost. The sodium can be replaced by drinking celery juice (4 ounces per day) and/or drinking a glass of warm water with sea salt (one-third teaspoon of sea salt).

Diet

People suffering from Crohn’s Disease should switch to a vegan diet balanced with raw foods. All meat and dairy products should be cut out of the diet. Refined starches and grains should be entirely avoided.

Enemas and Colonics

Enemas and colonics should not be performed during severe bouts of Crohn’s Disease, but nevertheless should be performed after recovering from Crohn’s Disease. Weekly enemas and monthly (every 3 months) colonics are a great preventive measure of Crohn’s Disease and we at Dherbs.Com highly recommend these effective modalities.

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