What causes irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome refers to a health issue linked to the dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in poor digestion and/ or absorption of dietary element that affects the gastrointestinal function. The poor digestion of foods cause stomach wind and coupled with this functional intestinal disorder or the poor intestinal movement thus making it painful as commonly huge amount of gases are formed and retained in the stomach and intestinal areas.



High fatty and oily dietary food intake creates more pressure on the gastrointestinal tract as movement of foods and gases tend to slow, moving from small intestine to big intestine/ colon.

Most researchers have attributed IBS to stress, anxiety and depression, much of this can be deduced to personal stress level and the bodily stimulation as a result of it. Most patients will experience a heightened metabolism rate, an imbalanced health state due to stress and unhealthy life style.

Certain food intakes make IBS worse such as caffeinated drinks; coffee and tea. Dairy products, chocolate and alcohol. Beans, nuts and some fruits such as oranges may also contribute to IBS.

In summary, IBS is commonly a cause associated to unhealthy life style. Lack of exercise, high level of stress or the inability to handle stress and pressure, high intake of oily and fatty foods, alcohol consumption and late sleeper are factors contributing to IBS.