Irritable bowel syndrome


What is IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is usually a long-term condition, causing bouts of abdominal pain with associated changes in bowel habits.

Whilst the specific cause of IBS is not clear, there are many factors that could be involved in developing the condition. These include:-

  • Issues with the movement of food through the digestive system
  • Changes in gut bacteria
  • Inflammation of the bowel
  • Disordered functioning of the immune system
  • Disruption in nervous system communication between the gut & the brain

For more information on symptoms & causes of IBS you might find this short video informative.

Changes to your nutritional intake, physical activity and medication can all play a part in managing symptoms associated with IBS. 

IBS & Mental Health

Some evidence indicates that IBS and stress can often co-exist. Whilst evidence is yet to uncover the exact mechanism of this relationship, there are some potential explanations. These explanations stem from findings that our mind and gut are connected through our nervous system.

Watch the video below to find out more about how this link between mind and body can impact symptoms of IBS:

There are a variety of ways to manage and cope with stress. For more information on self-help, coping and support, scroll down to the self help and external resources sections at the bottom of this page.

IBS & Nutrition

A balanced and healthy diet is considered important in living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. This is partly because IBS can alter the speed in which food is digested. Furthermore, consuming healthy foods can help cultivate healthy bacteria in the gut.

To find out more about what a healthy dietary intake looks like, The Eat Well Guide highlights current guidelines. Additionally, This Food Fact Sheet by the Association of UK Dieticians provides examples of some steps you can take to manage symptoms of IBS by thinking about what, when and how you eat and drink.

For further information on living with IBS please refer to the external resources section of this page.

Then at the bottom of the IBS section, can we have an external resources section with the following relevant pages and information:

About IBS – Website run by the International Foundation for Gastric Disorders. Provides information and advice on living with IBS

Webpage: Homepage - About IBS

NHS inform – NHS information on IBS with internal website links to information and videos on managing IBS, nutrition and mental health.

Webpage: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) | NHS inform

IBS network – national charity providing information, advice and support for people experiencing IBS and healthcare professionals.

Webpage: The IBS Network

IBS Food Fact Sheet by British Dietetic Association – Webpage with information and tips on diet and nutrition when experiencing IBS.

Webpage: Irritable Bowel Syndrome Food Fact Sheet | British Dietetic Association (BDA)

NHS Fife Access Therapies – Self-help guides for dealing with worry, panic, sleep and a guide to relaxation created by NHS Fife psychology staff.

Webpage: Self-Help Guides - Access Therapies Fife NHS (scot.nhs.uk)

Blog article - Stress and IBS

Webpage: Understanding The Stress IBS Cycle - A Little Bit Yummy

NHS Inform – videos on managing IBS

NHS Lothian- Video series by NHS Lothian explaining IBS, medication and psychology related to IBS.

Webpage: IBS Videos – Gastroenterology (nhslothian.scot)

Bladder and Bowel Foundation: B&BF provides information and support services, including a confidential helpline, for anyone affected by these conditions as well as their families, carers and healthcare professionals.
Webpage: Bladder and Bowel Foundation