Common Myths About IBS Part 2

Common Myths About IBS

When it comes to IBS, there are many myths and misconceptions to sort through.

If you suffer from IBS, then we don’t need to tell you how much conflicting advice and information there is out there. With all of that misinformation surrounding IBS, it’s no wonder why there are so many myths and misconceptions about it. In our last blog, we debunked a few of the most common myths about IBS. Keep reading to learn the truth about a few more IBS myths.

Myth #4. Lactose intolerance and gluten intolerance are the same as IBS.

Since IBS, lactose intolerance and gluten intolerance can all have similar symptoms, such as bloating, pain, diarrhea and gas, many people assume that they are all the same thing. However, that’s not the case. People who are lactose intolerant cannot digest lactose, and people who experience digestive problems when they eat gluten either have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. These problems are all caused by eating very specific foods, whereas IBS can be caused by many different things, including hormonal changes, bowel muscle spasms, certain bacteria in the bowel and more. It is important to note that some people do suffer from IBS and lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance or both.

Myth #5. IBS can lead to colon cancer or IBD.

There is a common misconception that IBS can develop into inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colon cancer, but you’ll be glad to know that IBS won’t turn into another disease or get worse over time. This confusion may lie in the fact that some people who have IBD also have IBS, but IBS does not cause IBD. However, just because IBS won’t lead to any other diseases doesn’t mean that it isn’t serious or that you shouldn’t get treatment for it.

Myth #6. Medication is the only effective treatment option for IBS.

There are many different treatment methods for IBS, and although medication is certainly a common one, it’s not the best option for everyone. In fact, many people find that the side effects of the medication they’re taking actually make some of their symptoms worse. For example, Antispasmodics are designed to reduce colon muscle spasms, but the side effects can include constipation. However, medication does work for some people, so don’t completely discount it. Other people have been able to find relief from their IBS by making simple lifestyle changes, like eating more fiber, drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine.

Myth #7. Stress causes IBS.

Many people are under the impression that IBS is actually a psychological disorder, and that can cause some stigma for people who suffer from it. In reality, IBS is a functional disorder, not a psychological one, and it’s a very real disorder that causes very real pain. While stress, as well as depression and anxiety, can certainly make IBS worse, it does not cause it.

Now that you know the truth about IBS, you can start taking steps toward finding the right treatment option for you. At Casa de Sante, we make it easy to stick with the best possible diet for IBS by providing you with a variety of delicious, low FODMAP foods. Shop with us today!

Do you still know other Common Myths About IBS? Let us know!