Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Gut Health
What is IBS?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common condition affecting around 30% of Australians. Classified as a gut-brain disorder, IBS arises from a complex interaction between the digestive system and the nervous system. It has been linked to factors such as childhood trauma, stress, gastrointestinal infections, and certain medications.
People living with IBS often experience chronic abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits such as constipation, diarrhoea, or a mix of both. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, leading to discomfort, fatigue, and increased stress or anxiety.
How Diet Can Help?
Research indicates that dietary strategies can play an important role in managing IBS. In particular, the low FODMAP diet – which involves reducing certain types of fermentable carbohydrates – has shown promising results, with up to 70–75% of people reporting improvements in symptoms.
While this approach can be effective, it is not suitable for everyone and should be guided by a qualified Dietitian to avoid unnecessary food restrictions and nutrient deficiencies.
Support from a Dietitian at Mind Body Well
Our non-diet Dietitians at Mind Body Well take a gentle and person-centred approach when supporting people with IBS. Rather than promoting restrictive eating, we focus on:
Exploring potential dietary triggers safely
Supporting balanced and flexible eating patterns
Promoting optimal gut health and nutrient adequacy
Reducing the stress and anxiety often linked to food and digestive symptoms
We recognise that food-related distress sometimes overlaps with eating disorders or disordered eating patterns, particularly when people begin to feel anxious or fearful about eating certain foods due to their IBS symptoms. Strict dietary approaches, if not carefully managed, can unintentionally reinforce restrictive eating behaviours, increase preoccupation with food, and negatively impact mental health.
Our Dietitians are experienced in supporting people who experience both IBS and eating concerns, using a compassionate and flexible approach to minimise unnecessary restriction. We aim to help people build confidence with a variety of foods while addressing digestive symptoms in a way that prioritises overall wellbeing. The low FODMAP diet is only recommended when it is considered both appropriate and safe, and we ensure it is used for the shortest duration necessary, with a focus on reintroducing foods and developing a long-term, balanced eating plan.
The Role of Psychological Support
Because IBS is recognised as a gut-brain disorder, psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and trauma can have a significant impact on symptoms. Working with a Psychologist can help address the stress response, improve coping strategies, and reduce the impact of worry or fear around food and digestive discomfort. At Mind Body Well, our Psychologists often collaborate with our Dietitians to provide an integrated approach that supports both psychological and physical wellbeing.
If you’d like to learn more about how Mind Body Well can support you, reach out via our new client intake form.