Today we are looking at two disorders of the gut, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and diverticular disease. Both are sadly more common than ever. Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms range from pain in the gut, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea. This may be related to food, gut function and movement, stress and depression. The cause of IBS is not known but there is inflammation and/or infection in the gut, changes in serotonin levels and a family history in some patients with IBS.
I saw a quote recently that said “Reality is the leading cause of stress among those in touch with it”. Stress is now so ingrained in our culture but what is it? A stressor is defined as anything that causes stress to an organism. When faced with a stressor, our body reacts with a “fight or flight” response, causing a surge of chemicals and immune cells. This is perfect if we need to get out of the way of an oncoming car but excessive stress over long periods of time increases our immune system activity and eventually depletes our resources, impairing the function of the immune system. The aim is not to completely avoid pressure but to find a balance....
