Intermittent Fasting for IBS: How Can it Help?
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) can be an uncomfortable and difficult condition to deal with. But can intermittent fasting be an effective strategy for alleviating some of the symptoms of IBS? In this article, we’ll look at the evidence to find out if intermittent fasting can be a helpful tool for managing IBS.
What is Intermittent Fasting?
Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that alternates between periods of eating and periods of not eating. This can take a variety of forms, but one popular method of intermittent fasting is the 16/8 method, in which you eat within an 8-hour window and fast for the remaining 16 hours.
Does Intermittent Fasting Have Benefits for IBS?
There have been several studies looking at the effects of intermittent fasting on IBS symptoms. One study found that people with IBS who followed an intermittent fasting diet had significant improvements in seven out of eight IBS symptoms, including abdominal pain, abdominal distention, and diarrhea.
The Benefits of Fasting Therapy (FT) for IBS
An additional study looked at the effects of fasting therapy (FT) on IBS symptoms. They found that of 84 inpatients with IBS, 58 experienced significant improvements in symptoms after following a fasting therapy program.
What Does the Evidence Say?
The evidence for the effectiveness of intermittent fasting for IBS is still emerging, but the initial studies are promising. Anecdotal evidence shows that intermittent fasting can indeed improve a patient’s quality of life by reducing pain and discomfort, as well as regulating bowel movements.
Tips for Fasting with IBS
If you’re considering intermittent fasting as a potential strategy for managing your IBS symptoms, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure you get the best results:
- Take your time – start slowly and work your way up to longer periods of fasting.
- Avoid skipping meals – fasting or irregular meals may worsen symptoms of IBS.
- Work with your doctor – make sure to follow your doctor’s advice and do not skip the ‘first-line’ advice which may include dietary changes, medications, or psychological therapies.
It’s also important to keep in mind that while intermittent fasting may be helpful for some people with IBS, it may not be suitable for everyone. It’s best to speak to your doctor before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Conclusion
For those of us with IBS, intermittent fasting can be a strategy to give our gut more time to rest, and more time to be free of discomfort. While there is currently no evidence to support fasting for IBS, the anecdotal evidence and early studies are promising. If you’re considering intermittent fasting as a potential strategy for managing your IBS symptoms, make sure to talk to your doctor first, and take it slow. With the right approach, intermittent fasting may be an effective tool for improving your quality of life.
Does intermittent fasting worsen IBS symptoms?
According to Warren, fasting may not be beneficial for IBS since it can result in consuming larger amounts of food at the conclusion of a fast, which may in turn trigger symptoms in certain individuals. Warren states that the excessive volume of food in the upper gastrointestinal tract can cause IBS symptoms.
What is the periodic fasting plan for individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
The most commonly practiced fasting methods are the 16/8 fast, wherein one only consumes food between the hours of 12pm and 8pm, and an overnight fast, which involves abstaining from eating for 12 hours starting after dinner.
Does missing meals have a negative effect on Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
It’s important to eat slowly and try to be relaxed when you are
eating.
Does undertaking a period of fasting have the potential to improve digestive problems?
Studies have shown that
intermittent fasting can improve gut health and the diversity of the gut microbiome. This may have a positive effect on overall health and wellbeing.
If you are looking for more information on Intermittent Fasting, the Fasting Books website has a large selection of books on the subject, including those specifically tailored for those with IBS. Check out their IBS category for more information.
