Myth 1: Nutrition won’t improve well-being.
In reality, nutrition plays a key role in managing gut health. Many foods can irritate the digestive tract, causing bloating, abdominal pain, and stool disturbances. For example, fatty foods, carbonated drinks, gluten, and lactose-rich products often trigger symptom flare-ups. However, following a specialized diet, such as the low-FODMAP diet, helps reduce symptoms in nearly 75% of people with IBS. This diet involves eliminating foods that cause fermentation in the gut and gradually reintroducing them to identify triggers. It’s also essential to consume more fiber, drink enough water, and include probiotics to support a healthy gut microbiome. Therefore, it’s important to remember that a well-balanced diet can significantly reduce discomfort and improve quality of life.
Myth 2. This condition only affects older people.
Many people mistakenly believe that this is a problem that only affects the elderly. However, this is false. In fact, IBS often affects younger and middle-aged individuals, and sometimes even teenagers. According to statistics, most patients with this diagnosis are between the ages of 20 and 40. Because the causes of this syndrome are not related to age-related changes in the body, but to other factors, such as frequent experiences, consumption of certain foods, and others. Often, young people simply do not pay attention to their changes in health and do not rush to see a doctor, believing that such problems arise only in older age. However, delaying treatment only worsens the condition and complicates the recovery process. It’s important to understand that IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that can occur at any age. The sooner you seek help from a specialist, the quicker you can alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. In some cases, certain medications (for example Gastro-Soothe, Colofac) can quickly improve well-being.
Myth 3. IBS causes permanent damage to the intestines.
Many people believe that frequent abdominal pain, bloating and stool problems cause irreversible damage to the intestines, but this is not the case. In this condition, the problem does not arise due to physical damage or inflammation in the intestines, but due to a malfunction of the intestines. For example, it may be caused by increased nerve sensitivity or impaired gut motility. Unlike serious conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, IBS does not cause inflammation or tissue damage. However, ignoring symptoms, failing to follow a proper diet, or avoiding treatment can worsen discomfort and reduce quality of life.
Myth 4. People with IBS are just exaggerating their symptoms.
In fact, this is not the case, as people suffering from this disorder may experience severe cramping, bloating, chronic diarrhea or constipation, as well as a constant feeling of fatigue and anxiety due to the fear of an unexpected exacerbation. Ignoring these symptoms or accusing someone of exaggerating only increases emotional stress and isolates them from social life. It is essential to understand that IBS is a real functional disorder that requires support, understanding, and proper treatment. Instead of criticism and doubt, showing empathy and helping people cope with their condition is the best approach.
Myth 5: You cannot practice yoga or do stretching exercises with this condition.
In fact, such practices can be very beneficial for people suffering from this disorder. Yoga and stretching exercises help improve overall well-being, reduce stress, and alleviate tension in the body, which are important factors for managing IBS symptoms. Gentle asanas and breathing exercises can help lower anxiety levels, normalize gut function, and even reduce pain or bloating. For example, practice asanas that promote relaxation of the abdominal muscles and reduce internal pressure on the intestines. As a result, after the session, you will feel a sense of lightness in your stomach and a better mood. The key is to listen to your body and avoid overexertion. Choose soft and comfortable exercises that suit you to maintain both physical and emotional balance.