Suggested causes of IBS include gut movement and psychological disorders, as well as food intolerance, which may be due to abnormal fermentation of food in the colon as a result of disruption to the normal gut flora. Certain diets that remove specific ‘trigger’ foods are beneficial to many people who experience IBS symptoms. Diets that restrict the intake of foods high in fermentable sugars and specific carbohydrates (FODMAPS*) can reduce IBS symptoms in up to 3 out of 4 people.[i]
The therapeutic probiotic strain Lactobacillus plantarum (299v) has an anti-inflammatory effect and assists in the management of medically diagnosed IBS. In a study Lactobacillus plantarum (299v) has been shown to help restore and maintain the natural balance of the digestive system, improving IBS symptoms and eliminating pain in up to 95% of people.[ii]
Lifestyle Tips to Help Manage IBS
Symptoms from IBS may be controlled by making some lifestyle changes. Some ideas that may help you monitor and control your symptoms include:
- - Keeping a food and fluid diary so you can see the effects certain foods and/or drinks have on your IBS symptoms.
- - Taking note how other factors, such as stress, affect your IBS symptoms and reduce your exposure to these factors.
- - Drinking a minimum of 1.5 litres of fluid daily, preferably water.[iii]
- - Regular light exercise such as yoga or walking, which may help to reduce the symptoms of IBS.[iv]
*FODMAPS are Fermentable, Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols.
[ii] Niedzielin K, et al. A controlled, double-blind, randomised study on the efficacy of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Eur J Gastro Hepat 2001;13:1
[iii] Watson AR, Bowling TE. Irritable bowel syndrome: diagnosis and symptom management. Br J Community Nurs. 2005 Mar;10(3):118-22. Review. PubMed PMID: 15824698.
[iv] Daley AJ, Grimmett C, Roberts L, Wilson S, Fatek M, Roalfe A, Singh S. The effects of exercise upon symptoms and quality of life in patients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome: a randomised controlled trial. Int J Sports Med. 2008 Sep;29(9):778-82. doi: 10.1055/s-2008-1038600. Epub 2008 May 6. PubMed PMID: 18461499.
*Any weight loss or health testimonials presented here are applicable to the individuals depicted and are not a guarantee of your weight loss nor are they typical. Herbalife products can be a healthy part of your weight loss program, which includes diet and exercise.
An extensive questionnaire generated responses from more than 200 U.S. Herbalife Independent Distributors about their weight-loss programs and results. They reported weight loss ranging from 4 pounds to 167 pounds and a reduced body mass index (BMI) of 1.5 points to 24.1 points, suggesting that consumption of Herbalife® products is associated with weight loss and improvement in BMI in those ranges.
**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.