Irritable bowel syndrome is a common digestive condition characterized by abdominal discomfort and changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both. While IBS is considered a functional gastrointestinal disorder, its symptoms can significantly impact daily life, energy levels, and overall well-being. In an integrative medicine model, IBS is viewed not simply as a diagnosis of exclusion, but as a reflection of underlying imbalances in gut function, microbiome health, and the gut-brain axis.
Rather than focusing solely on symptom management, an integrative approach combines conventional medical care with evidence-based complementary therapies to identify and address contributing factors. These may include gut dysbiosis, Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, food sensitivities, inflammation, altered gut motility, and chronic stress.
Symptoms can vary widely in presentation and severity, often fluctuating over time and influenced by diet, stress, and lifestyle factors.