In people with IBS, the brain seems to be oversensitive to normal signals from the nerves in the wall of the gut. This doesn't mean that IBS is in the imagination - it is more likely to be an imbalance of the chemicals involved in signalling between nerve cells. Food and IBS IBS is not a food allergy, but some foods may trigger symptoms. In general, a diet high in fibre from fruit and vegetables helps to stabilize the gut. On the other hand, many IBS suffers find that it worsens wind and discomfort, particularly if they add extra wheat bran.
Peppermint tea can help ease wind or pain.
In addition, not allowing enough time for defecation inhibits a healthy gut rhythm'. There are two reasons. Firstly, your doctor will want to rule out more serious conditions such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis or coeliac disease that can have similar effects. Secondly, although there is no simple cure for IBS, your GP can give you more detailed advice about diet and lifestyle, and perhaps prescribe anti-spasmodic medication. Antidepressant drugs may be helpful because they affect neurotransmitter chemicals in the gut.