Eating Disorders and IBS

So here’s the deal. It is estimated that 5-10% of the population has irritable bowel syndrome. IBS is marked by abdominal pain, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and/or constipation. (“Oh shit” is right!)

The cause of IBS is not known, but we do know that stress, anxiety, and certain foods can be common triggers. Because of this, foods are often restricted to try and prevent unpleasent symptoms. Your physician may suggest cutting out certain food groups to identify the foods that are the most triggering but this can be very dangerous for people who have disordered eating.

Studies have shown that 40-50% of those with eating disorders also suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. (Woh, I was shocked too.) Many studies have found that the eating disorder was there even before the IBS symptoms started! Could this mean that disordered eating might actually bring on IBS like symptoms? Or that IBS can worsen an eating disorder?! (Well double shit!) It’s a vicious cycle.

When both conditions are present, it is VERY important to treat the eating dirsorder first. Seriously though. Seek advice from an anti-diet registered dietitian on this. The ideal team when treating IBS would be a specialized eating disorder dietitian and therapist in addition to a kick ass gastroenterologist. We’ve seen it time and time again that balancing eating habits and reducing stress and anxiety can minimize or eliminate GI dysfunction.

If you have irritable bowel syndrome and you notice new or worsening patterns of disordered eating, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Navigating this road can be difficult by yourself. Know that you are not alone and it is possible to have a positive relationship with food again.

Click here to start your journey with a therapist or dietitian today!