Did you know that the brain and the gut are connected? They’re linked by a complex network of nerves that allows them to communicate with each other, known as the gut-brain axis.
Sometimes there’s dysregulation in the gut-brain axis, leading to digestive disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS.
Signs of IBS
Signs of IBS include recurring abdominal pain related to altered bowel movements like diarrhea, constipation, or a mix of both.
Some people with IBS experience bloating, distension, and excess gas.
Speak with your doctor to rule out any other underlying medical conditions that may be causing similar symptoms before pursing treatment for IBS.
What is the gut-brain axis?
The gut-brain axis functions like a two-way communication highway, linking the brain and gut through the vagus nerve. Signals continuously travel between them, which may help explain how mood and stress influence appetite and digestive symptoms.
For instance, stress can send signals down the vagus nerve, altering gut motility (how fast food moves through the digestive system), sensitivity, and appetite.
On the other hand, poorly digested foods can trigger signals from the gut to the brain, leading to feelings of discomfort, anxiety, or stress.
My Approaches
I have specialized training in the low FODMAP diet, Gut Directed Hypnotherapy, and Somatic Experiencing to support folks with IBS.
I tailor these approaches to find the best combination to support your body.
Work with me to feel more confident in your food choices, have a flexible approach to eating, and learn tools to reduce IBS symptoms.
Gentle FODMAP approach
FODMAPs are a group of carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine, and when they reach the large intestine, they ferment, potentially causing IBS symptoms in some individuals.
Understanding FODMAPs can help you identify food triggers to IBS symptoms.
Learn how to adopt a gentle FODMAP diet that’s flexible and meets your nutriiton needs.
Gut Directed Hypnotherapy
Studies suggest that Gut Directed Hypnotherapy can lead to significant improvement in symptoms in ~70% of individuals with IBS.
I use a standardized hypnosis protocol for IBS that is 7 sessions long.
Each session uses a combination of relaxation, imagery, and suggestion to improve the communication between the brain and gut.
Somatic Experiencing
IBS can be linked to past trauma or chronic stress, which can manifest as physical symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.
Somatic Experiencing helps you become more attuned to body sensations.
By promoting body awareness and stress regulation, Somatic Experiencing can help you manage the stress-related triggers that exacerbate IBS symptoms.
A Combined Approach
Nutrition & Diet
- I complete a nutrition assessment and offer feedback on how your eating habits may impact your IBS.
- We identify common “gut irritants” to help reduce symptoms.
- I provide information on the low FODMAP diet and we determine the best approach that meets your unique needs.
- I offer information around potential supplements that may reduce symptoms.
Mind & Body
- I offer education to support your understanding of IBS, including the impact of the stress cycle.
- I offer grounding tools to support a more regulated nervous system.
- I offer information on Gut Directed Hypnotherapy and Somatic Experiencing and we determine if either approach is right for you.
- I support you to approach your body with kindness as you navigate IBS symptoms.
Work with Me
Want to work with me?
Book a free 20 minute phone call to see if we’re a good fit for working together.
I’d love to hear from you!
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Tired of fighting with your body?
Subscribe to my newsletter to get biweekly ideas to support your journey of befriending food & body.
You’ll get a bonus copy of my Befriend Binge Eating Intro Guide!