Can Ibs Cause Weight Gain?
An increase in weight is not classed as a symptom of IBS and neither is weight loss for that matter
, however, fluctuations in weight are quite common in people with IBS and some people do find that over time they gain a few pounds. Take constipation as an example. Some people who regularly suffer from constipation can find that not only do they put on a little bit of weight, but that this weight is more difficult to shift, possibly because of a sluggish metabolism.
Other factors that can contribute to weight gain in IBS include fluid retention and bloating, which can of course make you feel larger as well as look it. Probably one of the most common reasons for weight gain in IBS though is simply eating the wrong kinds of foods.
Many IBS sufferers find that they are sensitive to certain foods so will avoid them for fear of triggering IBS symptoms and opt instead for a diet which is less than adequate and that could be lacking in some of the essential nutrients and which may eventually contribute to weight gain. Similarly, if you suffer from diarrhoea you may find yourself experiencing hunger pains, depleted of energy, and craving high energy carbohydrates. Over time, this can lead to an increase in weight.
Excess weight is unhealthy at the best of times but it can also make the symptoms of IBS worse and many people find that their symptoms subside or disappear when they shift those extra pounds. So if you have IBS and are overweight or have put on a few pounds over the months, what can you do about it?
Fortunately, most of it is common sense but understanding why you have gained weight in the first place can help you to identify ways to reduce and stabilise your weight and at the same time help you keep IBS under control. The following tips will get started and if nothing else will boost your general health, will make you feel better all round and could significantly reduce the severity of symptoms associated with IBS.
Increase the amount of fibre in the diet
First of all you have to make sure that you are getting enough soluble fibre in your diet, preferably in the form of fresh fruits and vegetables and cereals such as oats. Failing that you can try supplements such as Ispaghula husk which has been the subject of many research studies into IBS. Fibre will help to encourage regular bowel movements by making stools easier to pass; it improves the consistency of stools, helps to prevent a build up of faeces in the bowel and at the same time can promote weight loss. Regardless of whether you suffer from diarrhoea or constipation predominant IBS, increasing the amount of fibre in the diet can help.
Drink plenty of water
We are always hearing about the importance of drinking water yet many people still don't drink enough. Adequate fluid intake is essential for efficient bowel function and good digestive health in general and it can also help you to lose weight. Fluids help to flush out toxins and keep you hydrated and can prevent many other health problems from developing. It is absolutely vital that you drink plenty of water when increasing the amount of fibre in the diet as fibre draws water into the bowel and absorbs it so if there isn't enough fluids it can result in dehydration and in some cases far more serious health problems.
Reduce the amount of fat in the diet
Fatty foods can trigger or worsen symptoms of IBS in some people and too much fatty food contributes to weight gain. Cutting down on the amount of fatty foods in the diet could help you find relief from your IBS symptoms and can help you lose a few pounds.
Take regular exercise
It goes without saying that exercise is good for weight loss as it increases the amount of calories you burn up from the foods you consume. We all know that in order to lose weight we have to consume fewer calories than what we use up. However, exercise also helps the bowels to get moving and aids digestion. Another advantage of regular exercise is that it helps reduce stress and anxiety, both of which are known to worsen the symptoms of IBS, so try to keep as active as possible.
Significant weight gain or weight loss
IBS is not a disease but a syndrome characterised by a collection of symptoms that include diarrhoea, constipation or both, along with abdominal bloating and pain. Weight gain or loss of weight are not classed as symptoms of IBS and are not likely to occur as a result of IBS itself but in reality minor fluctuations in weight are still possible. If you experience any significant changes in weight you should speak to your doctor in order to rule out other potentially more serious conditions.
by: David McEvoy
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