IBS is a disorder involving the motility or movement through the large intestine. It is often a diagnosis based on the exclusion of everything else. Since there aren’t any anatomic changes of the intestinal tract with IBS, its diagnosis is based on its symptomatology. It occurs more frequently in females than males. Dr. Metcalfe recommends a further investigation by doing allergy tests and a comprehensive digestive stool analysis test. The musculature around the intestinal tract is very sensitive to emotional changes in our body, and therefore it is important to remove exogenous stress. IBS patients can be divided into two subtypes: Spastic colon and painless diarrhea, depending on their symptoms.

Spastic Colon:

Lower abdominal pain along the colon.
Alternating constipation with diarrhea.
Mucous in the stools.
Stools may be small in size.
Bloating.
Flatulence
Depression

Painless Diarrhea:

Urgent diarrhea.
Usually immediately after a meal
Usually in the morning.

Lifestyle Changes:

Decrease stress.
No alcohol: it stimulates peristalsis.
Consider counseling if emotional issues are surfacing in your life.
Dietary Changes:
No caffeine: it stimulates peristalsis.
Rule out food allergies.
Increase fiber to 30grams a day. Include fruit and vegetable fiber as well as from grains.
Increase water intake as diarrhea dehydrates the body.
Peppermint tea: 3 cups a day. Peppermint may slow down the contractions of the gut.
Chamomile and catnip tea is also very effective at eliminating gas.

IBS Management Protocol:

Permeability Factors: 2 capsules three times daily.
Similase: 2 capsules with each meal.
Enterogenic Concentrate: 4 capsules every morning.
Mentharil: 1 capsule daily for 3 days, then increase to 1 capsule twice daily.