Irritable Bowel Syndrome, more commonly known as IBS, affects one out of every five people. It is one of the most common disorders diagnosed by primary care doctors and gastroenterologists. IBS is also referred to as a “nervous stomach,” “irritable colon,” or “spastic colon.” It occurs in more women than men and usually begins around the age of 20.
A person may experience a bloated stomach, intestinal cramping and diarrhea on a regular basis. It can even control your ability to leave your home.
Anywhere from 30-60% of the people suffering from IBS have a low bone density. Certain drugs used to control IBS can interfere with the development and maintenance of healthy bone. And over time, bone loss increases. If you are taking medications (pills) to prevent or slow down osteoporosis, IBS can cause you to pass the medication through your body before it has had time to be absorbed.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for IBS, but it can be controlled through diet. Following an IBS diet means learning what can prevent or trigger a spastic colon and help you to regain a normal active life as well as helping to prevent bone loss.