IBS Intermittent Fasting: A Guide for IBS Sufferers
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, yet there is still no definitive cure. Many IBS sufferers experience abdominal pain, abdominal distention, diarrhea, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Fortunately, anecdotal evidence shows that intermittent fasting can improve a patient’s quality of life by reducing pain and discomfort, as well as regulating bowel movements.
What is Intermittent Fasting?
Intermittent fasting is an umbrella term that describes two forms of fasting. One type is short-term fasting, which usually lasts between 12 and 24 hours and is usually done once or twice a week. The other type is long-term fasting, which can last anywhere from 3 days to several weeks. Intermittent fasting is not a fad diet and does not involve eating fewer calories. Instead, it involves periods of fasting, followed by periods of eating.
Can Intermittent Fasting Help With IBS?
A study conducted in 2019 examined the effects of intermittent fasting on IBS patients and found that the fasting group had significant improvements with seven out of eight IBS symptoms. The researchers concluded that fasting therapy could be useful for treating moderate to severe IBS patients. In addition, anecdotal evidence from IBS patients suggests that intermittent fasting can help reduce pain and discomfort, as well as regulate bowel movements. Thus, for those of us with IBS, intermittent fasting can be a strategy to give our gut more time to rest and be free of discomfort.
How to Get Started with Intermittent Fasting for IBS
If you are considering trying intermittent fasting for IBS, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to talk to your doctor to make sure intermittent fasting is right for you. Secondly, do not skip the “first-line” advice, which includes eating a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting plenty of rest. Thirdly, there are a few different types of intermittent fasting diets that may work for IBS, such as the 16/8 diet, 5:2 diet, and alternate-day fasting. Choose one that works best for you and make sure to stick to it. Lastly, keep track of your symptoms so you can monitor your progress.
Possible Risks of Intermittent Fasting for IBS Sufferers
It is important to note that there is currently no evidence to support fasting for IBS. In fact, fasting or irregular meals may worsen symptoms of IBS. Additionally, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guidelines do not support intermittent fasting as a way of managing IBS. Therefore, the best way to approach intermittent fasting is to ask yourself if it could work for you and then proceed with caution.
My Experience with Intermittent Fasting for IBS
I have been dealing with IBS for many years and have tried a variety of diets and treatments without success. One diet that I found to be effective for my IBS is the intermittent fasting diet, which is an umbrella term because there are quite a few variations. I usually try to fast for 12-14 hours overnight and then eat two meals during the day. I have found that this helps to regulate my bowel movements and reduce pain and discomfort.
Final Thoughts on Intermittent Fasting for IBS
Intermittent fasting can be an effective way to manage IBS symptoms in some patients, but it is not a cure-all. It is important to talk to your doctor before trying any new diet or treatment and to be mindful of the risks. It is also important to be patient and to keep track of your symptoms in order to determine whether or not intermittent fasting is working for you. With the right approach and a bit of patience, intermittent fasting may help you find relief from IBS.
Does not eating meals increase the symptoms of IBS?
Therefore, it is best to take your time when eating to help minimize IBS symptoms.
What is the plan for periodical fasting for IBS?
The most commonly practiced fasting methods include the 16/8 approach, where you only consume food between 12 pm and 8 pm, and the overnight fast, where you abstain from food for 12 hours starting after dinner.
Does intermittent fasting lead to digestive issues?
You may experience digestive problems, such as constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and bloating, when doing intermittent fasting. This is because the decreased food intake associated with some intermittent fasting plans can have a negative impact on your digestion, leading to these side effects.
What strategies can be used to manage the symptoms of IBS?
Drink plenty of fluids.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol and smoking.
Eat smaller meals more frequently.
Avoid eating too quickly.
Cut down on foods that are high in fat.
Fasting Books offers a wide range of resources for people who are interested in using fasting as a tool to improve their health. Check out Fasting Books for more information about how fasting can help you manage your IBS symptoms and other health conditions, as well as helpful tips for getting started with fasting.
