Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a gastrointestinal disorder that can affect people for a few months, a few years, or for their entire lives. According to statistics, IBS affects around 10% of the population with symptoms ranging from mildly uncomfortable to extremely painful. In order to better understand this often embarrassing and tough to deal with condition, there are a few simple questions that need to be answered. What are the causes and symptoms one should look out for in order to both spot and potentially avoid IBS? How can you alleviate the symptoms as well as aid prevention? Read on to discover all you need to know.

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What Is IBS Exactly?

There are four subtypes of IBS defined by the symptoms experienced.

IBS-D: when the stool is loose or watery (diarrhea) more than 25% of the time.

IBS-C: when there is a hard, lumpy, or over-solid stool that makes it difficult for the person suffering to have a regular bowel movement (constipation) more than 25% of the time. 

IBS-M/IBS-A: when IBS-D and IBS-C both occur in a mixed, or alternating frequency, each at least 25% of the time.  

IBS-U: this type of IBS is just called unsubtyped, and is associated with symptoms that are not consistent with any of the parameters mentioned above. If such symptoms occur but are less than 25% of the time.

What Causes IBS To Occur?

The dysfunction of the gut which causes IBS is thought to be triggered by small changes in the muscles and nerves which are in charge of sensation in the bowels, as well as their motility (ability to move). 

There are a few different factors that may contribute to IBS. These factors include vitamin D deficiencies, fungus which can affect the gut microbiota, post-gastroenteritis infection, stress, bacteria, and genetics all play their part.

Symptoms Of IBS

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How Can You Manage, Relieve & Prevent IBS?

There are several different ways IBS can be managed from lifestyle changes to taking daily nutritional supplements. These methods can have a significant positive impact and include:

  • Low FODMAP diets – FODMAPS are carbohydrates that don’t absorb well into the small intestine. These include compounds such as fructose, sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol. 
  • Fiber – studies show that soluble fiber supplements can be highly effective in treating IBS. 
  • Laxatives – this can be useful for IBS types C, M, and U. 
  • Antidepressants – there is some evidence suggesting that these meds can actually help treat IBS directly. However, they don’t work to regulate IBS symptoms with people who are actually using them to treat depression. 
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – there is minimal evidence suggesting that this form of psychological therapy, and other similar types (such as hypnotism), may positively affect people suffering with IBS. 
  • Probiotics – these beneficial bacteria can be used to create a healthy living environment for the gut microbiota, and hopefully help alleviate the IBS symptoms or even the disorder itself.   
  • Herbal remedies – although considered a form of alternative medicine, herbs such as peppermint (in oil form), as well as cannabinoids like CBD have shown promising results in new research. 
  • Nutritional Health Supplements – many times supplements are used to combine a variety of different management strategies into easy access treatment for IBS. They can be combined with alternative dieting strategies, as well as any other IBS treatment in order to get optimal results – see our top recommended brands.
  • Regular exercise – studies show that a minimum of 30 minutes a day of vigorous exercise reduces anxiety, lessens stress, and can improve gastrointestinal health. 

Ingredients An Effective IBS Supplement Must Contain

Research helps guide the way in which we understand the key ingredients which garner positive results for overcoming IBS and its challenging symptoms. A top-quality supplement should contain the following ingredients to ensure you are giving your body the best nutrition to help eliminate IBS suffering. 

  • Vitamin D – many studies show that IBS sufferers are deficient in vitamin D.
  • Digestive enzymes – should include key enzymes protease, amylase, and lipase, as well as other specialized enzymes which can break down proteins, carbs, fats, fibers, and lactose. These enzymes will assist with breaking down food in the digestive system more efficiently, thereby contributing to better digestive health and a system which is less prone to infection. Ginger – Reduces pain and inflammation as well as improves digestion.
  • Aloe Vera – can work as a natural laxative, and also help rid the body of toxins. It contributes to a healthy digestive system and can help boost energy levels.
  • Turmeric – this powerful root is used to assist in a wide variety of gastrointestinal issues, and can work to help reduce stomach pain as well as assisting with the frequency of bowel movements.
  • Peppermint/Perilla – produces cooling effects in the digestive tract, and contains anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce bloating and cramping, while soothing pain and boosting general gastrointestinal health.
  • Ginger – used in ancient remedies, as well as many modern medicines. This root is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant rich ingredient which assists with the cleansing of toxins from the body, as well as helping with blood flow and relieving pain symptoms associated with IBS.
  • Psyllium Husk – a source of soluble dietary fiber which helps to clean the intestines by removing food waste and toxins from the body.

Our Top 5 Favorite IBS Supplements For Relieving And Preventing IBS:

#1
IBS Clear

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What Do We Like?

  • Contains natural ingredients.
  • Provides 10 digestive enzymes.
  • Includes BioPerine® for increased bioavailability and absorption.
  • Cost-saving purchasing options.
  • 60-day money-back guarantee on both used and unused bottles.*
  • Manufactured in an FDA-approved and cGMP-certified facility.

The Downside

  • Sells out fast.

Our Takeaway

When looking at the bigger picture of all the IBS products that are available, IBS Clear really stands out. This manufacturer has done their homework in terms of understanding what a comprehensive formula looks like and what ingredients are beneficial. They have included some excellent key enzymes as well as adding a range of natural herbs. We appreciate the fact that IBS Clear contains no additives, preservatives or synthetic ingredients and that it was formulated by medical experts and doctors. What’s more, the many positive customer reviews, and testimonials confirmed what we already thought – this is an excellent product. If you are searching for a good quality IBS product, then check out IBS Clear. It is great value for money, especially if you are looking for long-term intestinal support and with a 60-day money back guarantee you are pretty much covered. This is one product that we highly recommend.

#2
BioZyme Digestive Enzymes

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What Do We Like?

  • Contains different digestive enzymes.
  • Vegan-friendly.
  • Affordable.
  • Comes with a money-back guarantee.*

The Downside

  • Does not include any soothing or anti-inflammatory ingredients such as Turmeric and Ginger.
  • No options for any bulk-buying discounts.

Our Takeaway

The pros about this product are that it has a guarantee and does contain a few essential enzymes that aid in digestion which may benefit some, however, there are some cons to this product as well. The main concern is that the formula only focuses on breaking down proteins, fats, and carbs which helps with digestion but it does not focus on giving users any symptomatic relief from pain by using natural ingredients that have anti-inflammatory properties. The official website uses words such as “may reduce” and “may help” which does not give us any confidence in this formula. Many negative reviews have expressed this as well and have stated that they didn’t get any relief from any pain associated with their digestive conditions. Based on the formula, the manufacturer’s lack of confidence and the negative reviews, we do not believe that BioZyme Digestive Enzymes is the most effective product for relief from IBS and other digestive disorders.

#3
Nature’s Sunshine Food Enzymes

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What Do We Like?

  • Contains various digestive enzymes.
  • Option for a discount for members.
  • Third-party tested.
  • Money-back guarantee.*

The Downside

  • Does not include Turmeric and Peppermint Oil.
  • No option for any discounts for buying in bulk.

Our Takeaway

While Nature’s Sunshine Food Enzymes does offer a money back guarantee and contains ingredients that are potentially effective for digestive conditions, we do have a few concerns. The first concern is that product does not include any natural ingredients that offer symptomatic relief from nausea or pain and the manufacturer uses terms like “may help”, this does not give us any confidence in this formula. The second concern is that if you purchase the product directly from the manufacturer, you are tied into an unconditional membership fee, in addition to that, in order to get free shipping you would need to subscribe to the auto-ship program which may come with even more additional costs. In conclusion to this review, we advise consumers to look for alternative brands that are affordable and offer overall relief from IBS and other digestive disorders.

#4
Herbs of Gold Gut Care

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What Do We Like?

  • Contains the probiotic Saccharomyces boulardii.
  • Contains other soothing ingredients such as Aloe Vera.
  • Easy to use.

The Downside

  • Does not contain any digestive enzymes.
  • May contain a lot of filler ingredients.
  • Does not come with a money-back guarantee.*

Our Takeaway

At first glance, this product seems like a good and easy to use option to help keep the digestive tract healthy and avoid the painful symptoms of gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and cramps. It contains some beneficial ingredients such as a unique probiotic and some other healing ingredients such as Aloe Vera. The product also contains no allergens such as wheat, lactose or gluten. Unfortunately, there are downsides to note about this product as well. The ingredients do not contain any digestive enzymes that may help with breaking down fats, carbs, and proteins which aids in digestion and absorption. It is also not clear what any additional ingredients are in the product that make up the powder and vanilla flavoring. The product is also only exclusively available in Australia and you may have trouble finding it at a local store. The last concern is that there are no reviews and testimonials from end users at all which suggests that this product may not be very popular or effective. There is also no refund policy available on this formula and consumers who are unsatisfied will need to cut their losses, unfortunately. In conclusion to this review, we advise consumers to look for alternative options from reputable brands that offer a risk-free guarantee and are easily obtained locally.

#5
Kijimea IBS

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What Do We Like?

  • Contains a unique probiotic.
  • Manufactured according to quality standards.
  • Affordable.

The Downside

  • Only contains a single ingredient.
  • Lacking digestive enzymes and other soothing ingredients.
  • Does not come with a money-back guarantee.*

Our Takeaway

There are positive aspects to note about this product. It does not contain any allergens and has no recorded side effects, however, there are downsides to this product. There has only been one clinical study that suggests B. bifidum MIMBb75 can reduce symptoms of IBS, this is not enough evidence to prove that this ingredient definitely works. It takes hundreds of trials and studies before you can confirm that any ingredient is a proven treatment. This product is also very expensive and does not offer any affordable bulk options available. In addition to this, there is a variety of complaints from end users that have complained about the product claiming that it made the symptoms worse, and when they tried to reach out to the company they were not offered any solution. Without any guarantee or refund, these unsatisfied clients are forced to cut their losses. The final concern is that there is a website dedicated to this product but there is absolutely no information on what the ingredient is and how it works to manage symptoms. Without this information and the guarantee, consumers may find it in their best interest to seek alternative options to Kijimea IBS.

*Results for individuals will vary, depending on existing health factors, lifestyle and level of fitness. The information contained on this site is intended to educate only and is in no way, a substitute for medical advice that your doctor or healthcare provider can offer, with whom you should always consult with before making any dietary changes. Information within should not be used for diagnosis, treatment or prevention of any disease. Testimonials and results contained within may not be an implication of future results. Testimonials on this site are based on the experiences of a few people and you may not have similar results. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

*IBS Center only utilizes the information available on product websites and does not accept liability for a failure of any brand to uphold the money back guarantee.

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