IBS Awareness Month | Treatment Options for IBS

irritable Bowel Syndrome information sheet.

IBS Awareness Month | Treatment Options for IBS

April is a time to uplift, educate, and support those living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), lets continue April as IBS Awareness Month.

Living with IBS isn’t easy — it’s unpredictable, uncomfortable, and often invisible.

But there are treatment options that can help manage symptoms and bring back a sense of control.

💡 What are the treatment options for IBS?

Because IBS affects everyone differently, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution — but there are multiple avenues to explore:

🌱 Lifestyle & Diet Changes

Fiber adjustments: Some benefit from increasing soluble fiber (like oats or psyllium), while others may need to reduce insoluble fiber.
Low FODMAP diet: This is a common go-to — temporarily eliminating fermentable carbs to identify triggers.
Meal routines: Smaller, more frequent meals and mindful eating can make a real difference.

FODMAPs are a group of fermentable short-chain carbohydrates that can cause digestive distress in some individuals, particularly those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). The acronym stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols. These carbohydrates are not well absorbed in the small intestine and can be fermented by gut bacteria in the large intestine, producing gas and other by-products that can lead to symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

What are FODMAPs?

Fermentable Oligosaccharides: These include fructans (found in wheat, onions, garlic) and galactooligosaccharides (GOS) (found in beans, lentils).
Disaccharides: This refers to lactose, a sugar found in dairy products.
Monosaccharides: This includes fructose, a sugar found in fruits and honey.
Polyols: These are sugar alcohols found in fruits (like apples and avocados) and some sweeteners.

Why do FODMAPs cause problems?

Poor Absorption:
The small intestine doesn't absorb FODMAPs well, so they move into the large intestine.
Fermentation:
Gut bacteria in the large intestine ferment FODMAPs, producing gas and by-products.
Increased Water:
FODMAPs draw water into the intestine, which can worsen symptoms of diarrhea.
Gut Sensitivity:
Individuals with IBS have a more sensitive gut, which can be more reactive to the increased gas and water in the colon.

Low FODMAP Diet:

A low FODMAP diet is a temporary dietary restriction designed to reduce or eliminate FODMAPs in order to alleviate symptoms of IBS and other digestive issues.
It can help individuals identify which FODMAPs they are sensitive to and develop a personalized dietary plan.
The low FODMAP diet is typically followed in three phases: elimination, reintroduction, and personalized maintenance.
The diet can help individuals manage IBS symptoms, but it is not a cure for the condition.
It's important to note that a low FODMAP diet can be restrictive and may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with other health conditions. It's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before starting a low FODMAP diet.

💊 Medications

Depending on your IBS type (IBS-C, IBS-D, or mixed), your healthcare provider might recommend:

Antispasmodics for cramping and pain
Laxatives or anti-diarrheas' for bowel irregularities
Prescription medications like lubiprostone or linaclotide for IBS-C, or rifaximin for IBS-D

🧠 Mind-Body Therapies

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness-based stress reduction
Biofeedback and hypnotherapy

Stress has a huge impact on gut function — these therapies can reduce the brain-gut misfires that cause flare-ups.

🦠 Probiotics & Supplements

Some people find relief with probiotics, peppermint oil capsules, or other gut-targeted supplements — but results vary. Always consult a medical professional first.

📣 IBS is real. IBS is valid. And with the right support, it’s manageable. If you or someone you love lives with IBS, know that treatment is a journey — but you're not alone.

“This material is for informational purposes only and is based on guidelines from The Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. This content does not replace professional medical advice or official safety training. Consult your physician or safety training facility for further guidance.”