What is IBS & Can it be Cured?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects over 15% of the American population and is one of the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal disorders. After managing my own IBS for over ten years, I’ve learned firsthand how complex and frustrating this condition can be. My goal is to share evidence-based insights alongside my personal journey to help others better understand what IBS is, what causes it, and what approaches can support relief and long-term management.

What is IBS?

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects how the gut works rather than changing its structure. It primarily impacts the large intestine and is characterized by symptoms like:

• Abdominal pain or cramping

• Bloating

• Gas

• Diarrhea (IBS-D)

• Constipation (IBS-C)

• Or a mix of both (IBS-M)

Beyond digestion, IBS can also cause:

• Increased urination

• Menstrual irregularities and worsened cramps

• Pain during intercourse

• Fatigue and muscle aches

IBS is more prevalent in women and often worsens during times of stress or hormonal fluctuations.

Causes of IBS

There is no single known cause of IBS. Instead, it’s believed to result from a combination of factors, which may include:

• Food sensitivities or intolerances

• Gut-brain axis dysfunction

• Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)

• Gastrointestinal infections (post-infectious IBS)

• Stress and anxiety

• Hormonal imbalances

• Abnormal intestinal motility or visceral hypersensitivity

Every person with IBS may have a different root cause or combination of contributing factors.

Is There a Cure for IBS?

Currently, IBS is considered a chronic condition without a definitive cure, which can be disheartening to hear. However, this doesn’t mean you’re powerless. Many people find long-term relief through individualized strategies focused on:

• Diet and nutrition

• Stress management

• Gut healing protocols

• Lifestyle changes

While I’m not a doctor, I believe in the body’s capacity to heal when given the right tools. Just because conventional medicine doesn’t offer a one-size-fits-all solution doesn’t mean improvement or even remission isn’t possible.

Start with Food: Discover Your Triggers

Identifying personal food triggers is one of the most impactful steps in managing IBS. In my own journey, removing gluten and dairy was a game changer. I later discovered that nuts, beans, and even some “superfoods” like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts worsened my symptoms.

To uncover your triggers, consider:

• Keeping a detailed food and symptom journal

• Trying an elimination diet

• Testing for food intolerances or sensitivities (with professional guidance)

What to Eat (and Avoid)

Foods to Focus On:

• Leafy greens (e.g., spinach, kale)

• Berries, bananas

• Avocados

• Coconut oil

• Lean proteins (e.g., grass-fed beef, poultry, fish)

• Plant-based milks (e.g., almond, coconut, oat)

• Non-dairy probiotics (refrigerated versions often work best)

• Flaxseed

• Sprouted legumes and seeds

• Gut-friendly flours (e.g., almond, cassava, spelt, coconut)

Foods to Limit or Avoid:

• Gluten-containing grains (wheat, rye, barley)

• Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt—unless tolerated)

• Soy and corn (including oils)

• Cruciferous vegetables if they cause gas (like cabbage or Brussels sprouts)

• Peanuts and peanut oil

• Processed and packaged foods

• Artificial sweeteners (like sorbitol, mannitol, and sucralose)

Stay Hydrated

Water is vital for digestive health. Drink plenty of filtered water throughout the day. I like to start my morning with warm lemon water, which can gently stimulate digestion and liver function. If plain water gets boring, infuse it with cucumber, lemon, or berries.

Move Your Body

Gentle movement supports gut motility and mental health. Regular walks, stretching, yoga, or light cardio can ease bloating, relieve constipation, and improve overall gut-brain communication. Stress reduction is just as important as diet when it comes to IBS.

My Personal Journey with IBS

I’ve had digestive issues for as long as I can remember, but they really intensified around age 22. Growing up on a standard American diet—full of fast food, dairy, soda, and packaged snacks—my gut was constantly inflamed. At first, I only recognized dairy as a problem, but I’ve since learned that multiple foods were triggering my symptoms.

My main IBS symptoms include bloating, lower right abdominal pain, nausea, and fatigue. It worsens during my period and has even mimicked UTI symptoms, sending me for tests that came back totally normal. Knowing now that my bladder and reproductive organs are healthy—and that my symptoms stem from IBS—has helped me better manage my flare-ups and feel more in control.

The Bottom Line

If your symptoms persist despite dietary and lifestyle changes, consider seeking help from a naturopathic doctor, functional medicine practitioner, or registered dietitian who specializes in digestive health. And if you ever experience severe pain or symptoms like vomiting, blood in your stool, or fever, be sure to see a doctor right away to rule out serious conditions.

IBS may not have a one-size-fits-all solution, but with patience, persistence, and the right support, you can feel better—and even thrive.