​In December 2015, the most comprehensive survey of both IBS patients and physicians ever conducted was released: IBS in America. Commissioned by the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), online surveys were conducted from Sept. 14 through Oct. 29, 2015. In total, 3,254 IBS sufferers, both diagnosed and undiagnosed, as well as 302 physicians who treat IBS patients (151 primary care physicians and 151 gastroenterologists) were interviewed. The results cover symptoms and severity, seeking help and getting a diagnosis, and treatment and satisfaction.
IBS MYTHS
  1. IBS is a psychosomatic illness.
    IBS is a functional digestive disorder and is not caused by stress, emotions, anxiety, depression, or a history of sexual or emotional abuse. While psychological distress can worsen symptoms in some people, it does not cause the disorder.
  2. IBS affects only women.
    In the United States, about three times more women suffer from IBS than men. However, men also have IBS, and in other parts of the world, it is more common in men. IBS also affects teens, children, and the elderly.
  3. A high-fiber diet will cure IBS.
    There is little evidence that more dietary fiber benefits IBS symptoms or that too little fiber is a cause of IBS. In fact, insoluble fiber (the kind found in the bran of whole grains, cruciferous vegetables, and the skin of fruits and root vegetables) can cause more harm than good because this type of fiber tends to cause fermentation that results in bloating, gas, abdominal cramps, and pain in IBS sufferers. Soluble fiber (found in a broad range of foods, such as apples, legumes, and oats) can help ease constipation in some people with IBS, but because these foods are also high in FODMAPs, they can trigger or worsen symptoms. However, certain types of nonfermentable soluble fiber, such as psyllium husks and cellulose (methylcellulose), may be beneficial for some people with IBS-C and IBS-M/IBS-A.
  4. Probiotics can help IBS.
    At present, the types of bacterial strains used in probiotic products vary greatly. Further research is needed to clarify the role and value of probiotics and, if proven useful, determine which strains are the most helpful. A study published by BMC Gastroenterology in 2013 found that probiotics were not an effective treatment for IBS. However, a 2015 study out of Moscow showed statistically significant improvement in symptoms for both IBS-D and IBS-C with a particular combination of probiotics. With additional positive research, specific probiotic combinations could become valuable assets in IBS treatment.
  5. A gluten-free diet will cure IBS.
    There currently is no scientific evidence to support the theory that a gluten-free diet will help IBS. When IBS improves on a gluten-free diet, it’s likely due to the elimination of fructans, which are fermentable carbohydrates found in foods that naturally contain gluten and have been shown to exacerbate IBS symptoms. Unless you have celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or wheat allergy, there is no need for people with IBS to specifically avoid gluten.
  6. A vegan diet will cure IBS.
    No diet, including a vegan diet, an oil-free diet, a raw foods diet, a yeast-free diet, a sugar-free diet, a high- or low-carb diet, or a paleo diet will resolve irritable bowel syndrome. IBS isn't caused by what a person eats or drinks, and no single food or diet is a cure. However, a low-FODMAP diet may help pinpoint trigger foods and minimize symptoms in the majority of IBS sufferers.  
  7. IBS will lead to IBD or cancer.
    IBS is a functional digestive disorder doesn't cause structural changes to the intestines. IBS will not progress to more serious diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colon cancer. Although IBS is a chronic condition and symptoms may never be completely resolved, the disorder can be managed by identifying symptom triggers and modifying diet and lifestyle. In addition, some IBS sufferers benefit from medications and supplements.
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