Unleash Your Gut: A Guide to Spotting IBS and Healing Holistically

Hey there, fearless adventurers and high-performing go-getters! Are you tired of the endless doctor appointments, invasive tests, and prescription pills that the Western medical system often prescribes for every little ailment? Well, you’re not alone. Many of us are seeking alternative ways to heal our bodies, and when it comes to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), holistic healing might just be your ticket to freedom. In this introductory guide, we’re going to uncover the mysterious signs of IBS and explore three simple ways to start your journey towards holistic healing.

Signs of IBS: The Mysterious Gut Whispers

Before diving headfirst into the world of holistic healing, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. IBS is like a cryptic message from your gut, a puzzle waiting to be solved. And let’s be real- a diagnosis of IBS is just a nice label for the symptoms, but the underlying cause may vary. All we know based on that diagnosis is that there is some inflammation in your bowels, and since inflammation is a spectrum, you may only have some of these symptoms and with varying levels of intensity. You may be curious- what’s causing the inflammation in the first place? This is something I dive into in my 3-month program. First let’s see if we can assess whether you may have IBS. Here are some telltale signs to watch out for:

1. The Bloating Balloon: You’ve swallowed a helium-filled balloon, but it’s not making your voice funny. Instead, your abdomen is puffing up like a balloon at a kid’s birthday party, making you feel uncomfortable and self-conscious.
2. The Unpredictable Bathroom Tango: Your bathroom visits are as unpredictable as the weather. Sometimes it’s a mad dash, other times a leisurely stroll. It’s like your gut is choreographing a dance you never signed up for.
3. The Enigma of Cramps: You experience mysterious abdominal cramps that come and go like a mischievous ghost. They can be mild or intense, but one thing is for sure – they’re unwelcome guests.
4. Constipation vs. Diarrhea: Your gut seems to have an identity crisis, alternating between constipation and diarrhea. It’s like it can’t decide whether to hit the brakes or accelerate.
5. Food Fears: Certain foods send your gut into panic mode. Beans, dairy, or spicy foods are like enemies lurking in your pantry. You never know when they’ll strike.

Now that you’re familiar with the enigmatic signals from your gut, let’s embark on an important journey toward holistic healing.

Three Simple Ways to Start Healing IBS Holistically

1. Mindful Munching. Think of your gut as a delicate garden. Would you toss a Molotov cocktail in there? Of course not! So, why subject it to food grenades like processed junk and fast food? You want the most out of life, and so do your gut microbes. It’s time to embrace mindful munching.
   • Slow Down and Savor: Instead of inhaling your meals in a rush, savor each bite. Chew your food thoroughly, giving your gut a chance to digest properly. Now read this one again 10 times. 😉
   • Fiber Friends: Fiber is usually your gut’s best buddy. Include plenty of whole grains, fruits, and veggies in your diet. They’ll keep your gut flora happy and promote regularity. However, with certain gut conditions, fibre can exacerbate symptoms. Start by keeping a food-symptom journal. Work with a trained practitioner to create a fibre plan that works for you.
   • The Hydration Game: Water is your ally in any outdoor adventure (you check the map for water sources and plan how much water you will need to carry on the trail- why not do the same at home?). Stay hydrated to keep your gut lubricated and functioning smoothly. Sipping throughout the day is better than chugging a Litre twice a day.
2. Stress-Busting Adventures High-stress levels can be a trigger for IBS symptoms. Is your work stressful? Do you also do high-intensity long workouts? Your gut may not be loving those stress messages. So, let’s conquer stress with some calming activities.
   • Yoga and Meditation: Engage in yoga and meditation sessions to calm your body and mind. Picture your stress melting away like ice cream on a hot summer day. Even starting with 5 minutes a day is a great start!
   • Nature Therapy: Nature is the ultimate stress antidote. Take a hike, camp under the stars, or simply lounge in a park. Nature knows how to hit the reset button and allows your nervous system to attune to its environment, which is naturally calming.
   • Artistic Escape: Explore your creative side through art, music, or writing. Channel your emotions into a masterpiece and let stress forget about itself.
3. Gut-Friendly Allies. Holistic healing means nurturing your body with natural remedies. While antibiotics are sometimes prescribed to treat IBS, they can also be the root cause of the gut dysbiosis in the first place. So why bring in the big guns than can cause civilian casualties (referencing antibiotics and your microbes here- don’t worry) when there are many powerful herbs with much more gentle side effects if any?
   • Probiotic Power: Probiotics are like the superheroes of your gut. Incorporate fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, miso and kimchi into your diet to promote a healthy gut microbiome.
   • Herbal Heroes: Peppermint and ginger tea are soothing elixirs for your gut. They ease digestive discomfort and make your belly feel like it’s on vacation. Try making your own at home with organic ginger root. Add some mindful breathing as you sip the tea and become friends with bliss.
   • The Power of Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil capsules can provide relief from IBS symptoms. They’re like a breath mint for your insides. Be careful though if you have acid reflux, as peppermint oil can exacerbate symptoms.

Try some or all of these tips and let me know how it goes! It’s time to bid farewell to IBS woes and explore the wonderful world of holistic healing. Remember, your gut is your ally, not an enemy to be conquered. Listen to its whispers, treat it kindly, and embark on a journey towards a happier, healthier you. With mindful munching, stress-busting activities that promote rest, and some gut-friendly allies by your side, you’ll be well on your way to embracing a life free from IBS’s cryptic grip. So go ahead, unleash your gut, and let the holistic healing adventure begin! Book a call to get a comprehensive gut-health plan personalized for you and your gut.

Book your call here.

Take Care,

Heather