Acupuncture for IBS

IBS is a common disorder affecting 10 to 20 percent of adults at some point in their lives. Once called “spastic colon,” it's a combination of symptoms that may include constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating, fatigue and headaches that can be worsened by certain foods, stress and other irritants. IBS is the end result of nervous interference with the normal function of the lower digestive tract. The symptoms are variable and change over time.

IBS according to Chinese Medicine

While other patterns may be present, IBS is almost always considered a disharmony between the liver and the spleen in Chinese medicine. The liver is responsible for the smooth flow of qi and blood throughout the body. This flow can be upset by emotions or stress, causing stagnation of qi (energy) or blood. Chinese medicine views the spleen as being associated with the function of digestion and transforming food into energy (qi and blood). The spleen can be weakened by a number of factors including overeating unhealthy foods, overwork, too much worry, fatigue, and lack of exercise. When the spleen is weak and the liver is not moving smoothly, the liver overacts on the spleen and can manifest as symptoms of IBS.

Recommended Lifestyle Changes
• Get Acupuncture - An increasing number of studies show that acupuncture can offer relief from digestive disorders.
• Relieve Stress - Try Qi Gong, Tai Chi, meditation, yoga or breathing exercises. Finding a way to relax is key to keeping IBS symptoms under control.
• Exercise - Physical activity helps to maintain bowel regularity and reduce stress.

Nutrition and Supplements
• Identify trigger foods - By keeping a symptom diary, you should be able to pinpoint the foods that lead to your IBS symptoms. For example, some foods that may increase gas and bloating are beans and raw fruits and vegetables.
• Avoid dairy foods - Eliminating milk and milk products can be a big help for many people.
• Don't overeat - Too much food in a single meal can set off IBS symptoms; opt for small, frequent meals when possible.
• Take probiotics with meals - These products contain “friendly” bacteria that can stabilize the digestive tract; you can find milk-free brands (such as culturelle) in health-food stores.
• Take peppermint oil - Enteric-coated capsules taken 15 to 30 minutes before meals led to significant improvement in IBS symptoms among participants in a Chinese study. Take one or two capsules three times a day before meals.