IBS and Folic Acid: A Natural Treatment For Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome, often known as IBS, is one of the most common gastrointestinal conditions.

At the time of writing, there is no definitive cure or knowledge around what actually causes the condition. Though, there has been much discussion around the benefits of certain supplements that can act as an IBS remedy.

While these supplements cannot actually cure or treat the condition, they can definitely ease symptoms and make them more manageable.

Here, we look at IBS and the potential supplements which may provide some relief, including folic acid.

Can folic acid, one of the B vitamins, help relieve symptoms of IBS? Keep reading to find out!

IBS 101

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the term given to a collection of symptoms which relates to the disturbance of the bowels, or colon.

IBS is often a lifelong condition suffered by many, with some individuals displaying more severe symptoms than others.

Symptoms of IBS

Symptoms of IBS can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual. Though, common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Chronic diarrhoea or loose stools
• Constipation
• Bloating
• Sensation of incomplete bowel movements
• Excessive wind
• Continuous unease around the belly
• Urgency to use the toilet

IBS can also cause issues in other areas of the body, including poor appetite, weight loss, sweating, blurred vision, and dehydration.

Causes of IBS

Despite the plethora of research around this topic, it is still unclear on what exactly causes IBS.

IBS is known as a “functional disorder”, meaning it is associated with a disturbance of bowel function with no obvious cause or adaptations to the structure of the bowel.

While there is no known direct cause of IBS, there are definitely factors which can be held responsible for triggering symptoms and flare-ups. These factors include:

• A food allergy or intolerance
• Stress
• Abnormal serotonin levels
• Infections of the digestive system
• A dysfunctional immune system
• Ineffective colon muscles
• Mild coeliac disease

Is there a cure for IBS?

As mentioned, there is no direct cause or cure for IBS. Once a diagnosis has taken place, an individual can begin managing symptoms in many ways, including dietary and lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes even therapy.

If you think you may be suffering with IBS, it’s important to discuss your symptoms with your doctor!

So, what about folic acid?

What is Folic Acid?

Folic acid is the man-made version of folate - otherwise known as vitamin B9.

Folic acid is often used to treat or prevent folate deficiency anaemia, help the development of the foetus, and help reduce side effects of certain medications.

Other Supplements for IBS Relief

Some natural supplements thought to help ease IBS symptoms include:

Probiotics

Probiotics help top up the friendly bacteria in the gut, which is shown to have a protective effect on our body.

Turmeric

The active ingredient in turmeric (curcumin) is thought to have potent anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce inflammation in the gut.

Vitamin B complex

The B vitamins, including folic acid, play a key role in gut health and brain health (helpful for those suffering with depression associated with IBS).

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant which is thought to have a soothing effect on the bowel. It can also potentially reduce inflammation.

Fish oils

Omega 3 oils have been shown many times to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body, thus helping to reduce inflammation in the gut.

Peppermint oil

A powerful aromatic herb, peppermint is though to have the ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, providing a soothing effect.

Sleep remedies

Sleep remedies such as magnesium and melatonin may potentially help reduce symptoms indirectly. It is thought that focusing on better quality sleep may help ease symptoms.

This also ties in with stress management, which may also provide some relief when symptoms are associated with stress and poor sleep.

Immunity supplements

A poorly functioning immune system may also be a factor related to IBS symptoms. Ensuring key nutrients such as vitamin C, D, and zinc are all in check can make the difference between a proper functioning immune system and a poorly functioning one.

Take-Home Message

IBS is a common condition that effects much of the global population in one way or another. While some symptoms may be successfully managed through making diet and lifestyle changes, it’s rarely as easy as it sounds.

Medication can sometimes be necessary, or at the very least a herbal remedy to help ease specific symptoms. However, this should always be monitored by a doctor or healthcare professional!

Folic acid may help promote a functioning digestive system and overall health and wellbeing, however, it is still unclear whether this B vitamin can directly help ease symptoms of IBS.

There are many other supplements to consider which may help provide relief of symptoms, such as magnesium, omega-3, and a sleep aid.