Latest news and studies about IBS
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On this page, we are publishing the latest news, studies, information and articles about IBS. Please check back regularly for updates.
We try to link only to responsibly published and researched information. However, please bear in mind these are provided for information only and we cannot vouch for the accuracy, credibility or accuracy of the information on other websites. See your doctor if you have questions.
Relaxation breathing after eating may help your IBS
“Never underestimate the positive effect of deep breathing (diaphragmatic breathing) on the gut,” writes expert gastro-dietitian Jennifer Ryan.
Research suggests that CBD shows promise in managing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Inflammation is one of the main triggers of IBS, and thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD, it is thought to help treat pain and associated symptoms of IBS.
IBS is linked to poor eating habits and the way your gut metabolises carbs
A new study shows that the severity of your IBS may be linked to the amount of junk food in your diet and the way your gut metabolises carbs - this article is quite technical but very interesting.
Why is your IBS worse in the mornings?
For many people, IBS tends to be worse in the morning. When you wake up, the motility of your large intestines increases. This can lead to IBS. And stress, which affects your gut motility, might also play a factor.
Are IBS and PCOS linked?
IBS is a gastrointestinal condition whilst PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) is an endocrine disorder, connected with hormones. But scientists now think that there may be a link between the two and have been looking at how female hormones interact with IBS and both are affected by inflammation.
Would you use tarantulas to help with your IBS?
In a new study, researchers identify a new potential source of relief for IBS sufferers: a molecule derived from spider venom. In experiments with mice, they found that one dose could stop symptoms associated with IBS pain.
Patients found their IBS worsened during pandemic
A small study found that the COVID-19 crisis increased stress, anxiety, depression and abdominal pain in individuals with IBS.
New guidance for doctors on diagnosing and managing IBS
In The American Journal of Gastroenterology, Dr. Brian Lacy and colleagues presented the first-ever American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) clinical guideline for the management of IBS.
How a small dose of anti-depressants might help your IBS
A dose ten times smaller than is used for mood disorders is thought to work directly on the nerves in the bowel.
Can yoga help your IBS symptoms?
Nine poses to try that are said to help digestive health
CBD for IBS - does it work?
Some people believe it does, especially during flare-ups, because it has anti-inflammatory qualities.
Is IBS an 'allergic' reaction in the gut?
New research suggests that IBS sufferers have 'different' immune systems and the problem may be allergy related.
IBS and the menstrual cycle
Premenopausal women with IBS may suffer from fluctuating symptoms during different phases of the menstrual cycle, which correlates with the fluctuations in their sex hormones' level.
Have scientists found the reason some foods aggravate IBS?
KU Leuven researchers believe they have, and that it will lead to new and more effective therapies
Is there a link between asthma and IBS?
Apparently, there is, and this study suggests routine screening of asthma patients to help them manage their condition.
From a tummy massager to gummies, a squatting stool and a tracker app, which is the best for IBS?
From the slightly odd to the really out there, there are lots of gadgets on the market to help you manage your IBS. These have been reviewed by Peter Whorwell, mentioned elsewhere on this site as a pioneer of using hypnotherapy to help IBS sufferers.
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Is diarrhoea a symptom of COVID?
A minority of people do seem to develop stomach aches and upsets, often a few days before other, better-known symptoms of COVID. So if your upset stomach isn't following the usual pattern of your OBS, get it checked out.
COVID-19 and the gastro-intestinal system
Does your IBS put you in a high-risk category for COVID? Thankfully it would appear not - unless you have other conditions as well or are taking immunosuppression drugs or corticoids.
Runner's diarrhoea
Despite exercise being good for your IBS (see study below) some people with the condition find that they can be 'caught short' since exercise may increase the likelihood of diarrhoea striking suddenly. Very difficult if you are away from home.
Is exercise safe when you have IBS?
Not only is it safe, but it's also recommended and some kinds of exercise can help reduce stress and control your symptoms.
IBS genetically linked to other health problems
Migraines, tension headaches, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have been found to share a common genetic link.
A new kind of IBS? PDV-IBS
Some researchers say that IBS type symptoms may be suffered following a bout of diverticulitis. Others say the diverticulitis was just a flare-up of a pre-existing condition.
Connection found between fibromyalgia and IBS
Research suggests that up to 70% of those with fibromyalgia also suffer IBS symptoms, though the link between the two is not yet clear.
IBS treatment better dealt with by GPs
A Dutch study has recommended that the majority of IBS patients should be offered treatment in primary care (e.g. from GPs and practice nurses) rather than secondary care (referrals to specialists). The primary care treatment is significantly cheaper and just as effective, although some of the increased costs are because specialists are more likely to refer patients to other specialists.
Sensitivity to cat dander may explain high asthma rates in IBS sufferers
Cat dander consists of tiny pieces of dry cat skin which gets into the air and lands on carpeting, furniture, and other surfaces including humans and their clothing. Allergies to it can cause (among other things) sneezing, runny nose, congestion and skin rashes. Those with IBS are more likely than average to be sensitive to cat dander, which may explain why those with IBS have a higher prevalence of asthma than those without.
Effect of FODMAP diet questioned
Despite claims that the diet is 'medically proven' to help IBS sufferers (see our January post below) a new study says the diet has 'very limited' evidence in its favour.
Effects of hypnosis on GI problems
Report by the UNC Center for Functional GI and Motility Disorders
Many IBS patients sensitive to gluten
A six-week study showed that nearly 84% of the gluten-free placebo group showed a significant improvement in symptoms compared to just under 26% for the gluten consuming group. The team responsible for the study suggests that the term of IBS may change or delay an "effective and well-targeted treatment strategy in gluten-sensitive patients."
IBS is psychological as well as physical
Anthony J. Lembo at the 2nd annual Digestive Diseases meeting in Philadelphia says psychological factors should be treated as well as physical symptoms when treating IBS. The article doesn't mention hypnotherapy specifically but certainly implies support for its use.
New blood test to diagnose IBS
Gastroenterologist Dr Mark Pimentel, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in LA, believes his new method could help secure an early diagnosis for patients, avoiding the need for years of medical appointments.
FODMAP diet to help control IBS symptoms
There is now a 'medically proven' treatment which offers relief to three-quarters of patients – the low FODMAP diet. Dietician Dr Sue Shepherd, who first developed the diet, has created an easy-to-follow recipe book that makes identifying ‘trigger’ foods simple.
Taking control of my IBS
Not exactly news, but a really good blog on how an IBS sufferer got control of their symptoms after ten years of struggling.
Links between IBS and abuse
This report investigates the idea that children who are abused or neglected may be more likely to develop IBS later in life. You'll have to register with PubMed to read the whole report.
AGA publish a guide to help identify the best IBS treatments
The American Gastrological Association say their new guideline - published in the journal Gastroenterology - offers an evidence-based approach to help patients and their doctors navigate the wealth of drug information
IBS affects men and women differently
A new study shows men with IBS tend to experience more social stress and irritability, which leads to them receiving different treatment from their doctors.
Patients with IBS process gut pain differently
It's thought that patients with irritable bowel syndrome cannot block pain signals from the gut as easily as those without the condition.
Natural sugars a culprit in IBS
Growing evidence suggests a novel diet approach that restricts certain natural sugars found in everyday foods can dramatically improve bloating, gas and abdominal pain in most IBS sufferers.
