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Complementary Health Approaches for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

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Abstract

Purpose of review

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional disorder with a prevalence of up to 15% in the USA. Patients with IBS are more inclined to seek complementary treatment options for management of their conditions due to a lack of sufficient relief from conventional treatments and preference towards a more natural approach. We reviewed the most up-to-date medical literature regarding complementary health modalities for the treatment of IBS.

Recent findings

Proposed mechanisms for IBS range from alterations in gut motility, intestinal permeability, intestinal microbiome, visceral hypersensitivity, and brain-gut interactions. Addressing each mechanism has helped to broaden our treatment armamentarium by introducing specific targets to different aspects of the disease mechanisms. Today, treatment options for IBS range from conventional prescription drugs for symptomatic relief, including antibiotics for IBS predominant diarrhea to complementary modalities: specific diets, probiotics, botanical herbal regimens, acupuncture, and mind-body therapies.

Summary

Numerous complementary health approaches are available to patients and gastroenterologists. There is sound evidence to support the use of such modalities to augment the care and overall quality of life of patients with IBS.

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Funding

This research received no external funding but was supported by a gift by Alexander and Valentina Severinsky.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. 25230 Kingsland Blvd, Suite #101, Katy, TX, 77494, USA

    Vivian Abena Asamoah MD

  2. Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 N Wolfe St, Carnegie 464, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA

    Gerard Mullin MD

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  1. Vivian Abena Asamoah MD
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Dr. Asamoah conducted a literature review and drafted the manuscript. Dr. Mullin provided oversight, review of drafts, and editorial contributions.

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Correspondence to Gerard Mullin MD.

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Vivian A. Asamoah declares that she has no potential conflict of interest.

Gerard Mullin declares that he has no potential conflicts of interest.

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Asamoah, V.A., Mullin, G. Complementary Health Approaches for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Curr Treat Options Gastro 18, 545–556 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11938-020-00315-w

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