10 CAUSES OF IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS)
Top 10 Causes of IBS and How to Get Relief
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. It can cause abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. IBS is often triggered by various factors that disrupt the normal function of the gastrointestinal system.
Here are the top 10 causes of IBS and what you can do about them:
1. Food Intolerances
One of the most common IBS triggers is a reaction to certain foods like dairy, gluten, or FODMAPs (fermentable carbs found in foods like garlic, onions, and beans).
An elimination diet can help identify problem foods. I work with clients to slowly reintroduce foods while tracking symptoms. Keeping a food journal is invaluable for pinpointing triggers.
2. Gut Infections
Bacterial overgrowth, parasites, and other gut infections are linked to IBS. Antibiotics and contaminated food or water can disrupt the balance of good and bad gut microbes.
I recommend getting tested for gut infections like SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) to determine if an imbalance is contributing to symptoms.
3. Stress
Stress impacts digestion and can make IBS symptoms worse. The gut-brain connection is real!
Effective stress management techniques include:
✔ Meditation & yoga
✔ Breathing exercises
✔ Progressive muscle relaxation
✔ Engaging in joyful activities
Reducing stress in daily life is key to improving IBS symptoms.
4. Hormonal Changes
IBS symptoms often fluctuate around the menstrual cycle, indicating a hormonal link. Birth control pills and hormonal therapies can also affect gut function.
Tracking symptoms and working with a Functional Medicine Practitioner can help identify and manage hormonal triggers.
5. Nervous System Dysfunction
People with IBS often have extra-sensitive pain nerves in their gut. Relaxation techniques and specific supplements can help regulate the nerves and reduce pain signals.
Alternative therapies like:
✔ Acupuncture
✔ Massage therapy
...can also soothe the nervous system and improve gut health.
6. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
SIBO occurs when too many bacteria grow in the small intestine, leading to:
Bloating
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
A breath test can diagnose SIBO, and targeted treatment can help restore balance.
7. Medications
Certain medications can negatively impact gut health and contribute to IBS symptoms, including:
❌ Antibiotics
❌ Painkillers (NSAIDs)
❌ Antidepressants
❌ Iron supplements
❌ Antacids
If you suspect medications may be affecting your digestion, talk to your doctor about possible alternatives.
8. Low-Fiber Diet
Fiber acts like a scrub brush, moving waste through the intestines. A low-fiber diet can allow waste to linger, worsening IBS symptoms.
To improve gut health:
✔ Increase fiber intake gradually
✔ Drink plenty of water to help fiber work effectively
9. Sedentary Lifestyle
Regular exercise helps reduce IBS symptoms by:
Lowering stress
Stimulating digestion
Supporting gut microbes
I recommend 30 minutes a day of moderate activity like:
🏃♂️ Walking
🧘 Yoga & Pilates
🏊 Swimming
If you're new to exercise, start slow and avoid intense workouts that may trigger symptoms.
10. Psychological Factors
Depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress can manifest physically as digestive issues. Learning coping strategies can lessen the impact of emotions on the gut.
Therapies that can help include:
✔ Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
✔ Mindfulness practices
✔ Journaling & emotional processing
Other Factors That Can Contribute to IBS
In addition to the top 10 causes, other factors can worsen IBS symptoms:
✔ Food poisoning – Stomach bugs from bacteria or viruses can damage the GI tract and trigger IBS.
✔ Sleep disturbances – Poor sleep affects hormones, immunity, and digestion.
✔ Smoking, drugs, and alcohol – These inflame the intestinal lining and worsen symptoms.
✔ Thyroid issues – An underactive or overactive thyroid can slow digestion and cause GI problems.
How to Get IBS Relief Naturally
The good news is that simple diet, lifestyle, and mind-body therapies can significantly relieve IBS symptoms.
I work with clients to identify root causes and create individualized solutions that focus on:
✅ Reducing inflammation
✅ Restoring gut health
✅ Managing stress effectively
✅ Making sustainable diet & lifestyle changes
If you're struggling with IBS, I offer a FREE 15-minute consultation to explore your health goals and find the best approach for you.