How Intermittent Fasting Could Help IBS Sufferers
Are you an IBS sufferer looking for a new way to reduce your symptoms? Intermittent fasting might be the answer for you. In this article, we will explore the evidence around IBS and intermittent fasting and discuss how this type of fasting could be beneficial for those with IBS.
The Evidence Around Intermittent Fasting and IBS
A recent study found that those who followed an intermittent fasting diet had significant improvements in seven out of eight IBS symptoms, including abdominal pain, abdominal distension, diarrhea, and constipation. In this study, 58 out of 84 IBS inpatients followed the fasting therapy (FT) for treatment of their symptoms.
Intermittent fasting is a popular dieting method where you alternate between periods of eating and periods of not eating. There is currently no evidence to support fasting for IBS, but anecdotal evidence suggests that it can improve a patient’s quality of life by reducing pain and discomfort and regulating bowel movements.
Advantages of Intermittent Fasting for IBS
Intermittent fasting could be beneficial for those with IBS for several reasons. Firstly, fasting can give your gut more time to rest and be free of discomfort. Secondly, it can help to regulate your digestive system and reduce bloating and abdominal discomfort. Finally, it may help to reduce stress, which can cause IBS symptoms to worsen.
How to Practice Intermittent Fasting
If you’re interested in trying intermittent fasting, there are several methods you can follow. One of the most popular methods is the 16/8 method, where you fast for 16 hours and eat all your food within an 8-hour window. For example, you could fast from 8pm until 12pm the next day and eat all your meals between 12pm and 8pm.
Another method is the 5:2 diet, where you eat normally for five days of the week and restrict your calorie intake to 500 calories for two days. You can also try alternate day fasting, where you fast for a full 24 hours every other day, but this is not recommended for those with IBS.
Tips for Successful Intermittent Fasting
If you decide to try intermittent fasting, there are some tips and tricks to help you be successful. Firstly, it is important to make sure you are eating nutritious, high-fiber foods and drinking plenty of water during your eating window. This will help to keep your body and digestive system healthy.
Secondly, it is important to listen to your body and take regular breaks if you start to feel overwhelmed or unwell. Finally, it is important to stick to the plan and be consistent with your fasting, as this will help you to see the best results.
When to Avoid Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting is not suitable for everyone, and it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new diet. It is also important to note that fasting or irregular meals may worsen symptoms of IBS, so it is important to discuss this with your doctor before starting a fasting protocol.
Finally, it is important to follow the ‘first-line’ advice for managing IBS, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress. These strategies are the most important first steps to take when managing IBS.
In conclusion, intermittent fasting may be beneficial for those with IBS, and could help to reduce symptoms such as abdominal pain, abdominal distention, diarrhea, and constipation. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new diet, and to follow the ‘first-line’ advice for managing IBS. With the right strategy, intermittent fasting could help to improve your quality of life and reduce your IBS symptoms.
Does intermittent fasting worsen IBS symptoms?
According to Warren, fasting may not be beneficial for people with IBS since long stretches of fasting can lead to overeating at the end of the fast. This can cause an increase in the volume of food in the upper gastrointestinal tract and potentially trigger symptoms in some individuals.
What is the time frame for intermittent fasting when managing IBS?
The most common types of fasting involve either a 16/8 fast, where one eats only within a span of 8 hours, typically between 12pm and 8pm, or an overnight fast, where one refrains from eating for 12 hours starting after dinner.
Can avoiding meals exacerbate IBS symptoms?
Therefore, it’s important to be mindful and relaxed when eating meals.
Does fasting periodically lead to digestive problems?
Fasting intermittently may lead to digestive problems such as constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and bloating. Eating less than usual as part of an intermittent fasting routine may have an adverse effect on digestion, leading to digestive issues.
Promoting Fasting Books
Are you interested in learning more about different types of fasting to improve your health? Check out Fasting Books for a selection of books on intermittent fasting, water fasting, and more.
