Nervous colitis: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and effective treatments to control it

  • Nervous colitis is a functional bowel disorder (irritable bowel syndrome) where stress, diet, and psychological factors alter the brain-gut axis and produce pain, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.
  • The diagnosis is based on the medical history, physical examination and tests to rule out other more serious colitis; it is key to identify the subtype (with diarrhea, with constipation or mixed) to choose the right treatment.
  • Effective treatment combines a tailored diet, stress management (mindfulness, psychological therapy) and medications selected according to the symptoms, avoiding self-medication and maintaining regular check-ups with the specialist.
  • Good lifestyle habits (small, frequent meals, physical activity, adequate sleep, and reducing irritants such as alcohol, caffeine, and ultra-processed foods) help prevent flare-ups and significantly improve quality of life.
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Irritable bowel syndrome: causes, symptoms, and treatments

We frequently see people suffering from intestinal disorders; it seems to be quite common among the world's population to experience this type of ailment. This phenomenon can be attributed to bad eating habitsThis is due to increased daily stress, lack of physical activity, and also the infrequent way in which many people visit the doctor when the first digestive symptoms appear.

La nervous colitisIntestinal dysentery, on the other hand, is an intestinal disorder that directly affects the colon and intestines. This condition, also known as irritable bowel syndrome or irritable colon syndromeIt can significantly impair quality of life and even become seriously complicated if not treated with the necessary care and attention, especially when it is confused with other more dangerous types of colitis (such as ulcerative colitis or infectious colitis) and the correct diagnosis is delayed.

Therefore, we dedicate this article in depth to irritable bowel syndrome: what it is exactly, what its symptoms are, and what the symptoms are. its causes, what symptom It is produced, how it is diagnoses, what Treatments They exist, which foods are good to eat and which to avoid, and what lifestyle changes really help keep it under control.

What is nervous colitis?

nervous colitis in the colon

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disease which directly affects the colon and intestines. It is known in the medical field as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) o irritable bowel syndromeThe term “nervous” refers to its close relationship with the Stressanxiety and other emotional factors.

It is a frequently inflammatory, painful, and recurrent in which there is an alteration in the normal functioning of the intestine. Severe lesions are not always seen in tests, but the intestine becomes hypersensitive and changes occur in their motility. The onset of this disease may be accompanied by severe abdominal pain, a feeling of cramps, dizziness, a feeling of heaviness or burning in the lower back and, in turn, significant changes in the patient's bowel habits, presenting diarrhea, constipation, or an alternation between the two.

This disease can significantly affect lifestyle of the person and his Self esteemThere are stages in which the patient goes through moments of genuine crisis and despair, not knowing how to stop the pain and symptoms of colitis, which impacts their work, family, partner and social life.

In all cases, it is recommended that the patient visit the doctor frequently. specialist in gastroenterology or internal medicineEven if symptoms improve or disappear for periods of time, regular monitoring is essential if there is a personal or family history of other digestive system diseases to prevent complications and rule out more serious conditions.

On the other hand, a patient suffering from irritable bowel syndrome should perform a profound change in their eating habits and lifestyleClinical experience and numerous studies agree that poor diet, large meals high in animal fats, irritants and ultra-processed foods, along with a sedentary lifestyle, are key triggers for the colon and intestines of a predisposed person to suffer.

Some studies show that the population suffering from irritable bowel syndrome frequently presents some psychological agent that directly affects the digestive system, such as depressionPhobias, anxiety, chronic fear, or post-traumatic stress are all emotional states directly involved in the onset, intensity, and duration of disease outbreaks.

These patients generally tend to refer to themselves as negative qualities and to blame themselves. This is due, in part, to the stress generated by suffering constant and unending pain, and to the social lack of understanding of a disorder that often doesn't show up in a blood test or X-ray. They may even feel that they are the direct cause of the illness, when in reality, most of the time it is a combination of their own biological characteristics (such as intestinal hypersensitivity) with environmental, psychological and dietary factors.

The onset of the disease also varies depending on the patient age and genetic factorsFor example, in adults between the ages of 50 and 60, it tends to occur more frequently. chronicleoften with less intense pain but with persistent symptoms of bloating, gas, or changes in bowel habits. In contrast, a young adult may experience episodes of very intense pain associated with colon spasms and production of gastric juices that alter the usual digestive process.

Colitis can also occur in Children and adolescentsAt a young age, the pain threshold is lower, and it is also easier to mistake it for infections or food intolerances. Although severe, life-threatening cases are rare, a delayed diagnosis or inadequate treatment can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and malnutritionTherefore, it is essential to consult a pediatrician or pediatric gastroenterologist if symptoms persist. Severe cases in children are generally rare, but they require prompt attention.

What are the types of colitis?

The term “colitis” generally refers to the inflammation of the colonThere are several types of colitis with very different causes, progression, and treatments, so it is crucial to distinguish them correctly. Generally speaking, we can mention the following:

  • Nervous or functional (irritable bowel syndrome): is directly associated with situations of stress and imbalances in the gut-brain axisThis condition occurs when the intestinal walls contract irregularly, causing discomfort during gas passage and during regular bowel movements. It does not produce serious visible lesions, but it does cause pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
  • Ulcerative: This disease is of the type chronic and inflammatory. It is characterized by the appearance of ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectumThe inflammation usually begins in the rectum and spreads continuously to the walls of the colon. It is an autoimmune disease that can cause rectal bleeding, anemia, and an increased risk of colorectal cancer if not treated properly.
  • Hemorrhagic or infectious: This type of colitis is caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli or by other microorganisms (viruses, parasites). It usually presents with Severe diarrhea, sometimes with blood, fever, and general malaiseIt requires rapid diagnosis to indicate the specific antibiotic or treatment, and it differs from nervous colitis because it is usually an acute and short-lived condition.
  • Toxic: It occurs as a serious complication of ulcerative colitis (Toxic megacolon). In this case, the inflammation of the colon is so severe that it can dilate dangerously, compromising blood flow and leading to perforations, systemic infections, and life-threatening conditions. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate hospital care.
  • Granulomatous: This is a very specific condition, related to the Crohn's disease, in which the immune system attacks the tissues of the intestine and colon, forming granulomas (inflammatory accumulations). It can affect the entire digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, and is characterized by diarrhea, pain, weight loss, and complications such as fistulas and stenosis.
  • Associated with the use of medications: prolonged or improper use of certain substances such as some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugsBroad-spectrum antibiotics, iron supplements, or even high doses of vitamin C can damage the intestinal mucosa and cause acute or chronic colitis, manifested by diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes bleeding.

In addition to this classic classification, in clinical practice a functional subclassification of nervous colitis depending on the type of bowel movements, because this guides the pharmacological treatment:

  • Colitis with predominant constipation: the patient has stool hard, scarce and dry. Bowel movements require effort, can be painful, and the frequency of bowel movements decreases significantly.
  • Diarrhea-predominant colitis: It is characterized by evacuations frequent, loose or watery, often accompanied by urgency and a feeling of not making it to the bathroom in time.
  • Mixed colitis: the patient alternates periods of constipation of several days with episodes of sudden diarrheaThis variant is especially perplexing for the patient and requires a highly individualized therapeutic approach.
  • Not classifiable: When symptoms of pain, bloating, and discomfort are clear, but bowel movements do not show a consistently altered pattern in form or frequency, there is still a functional bowel disorder that requires attention.

Correctly identify the type of colitis And, within the context of irritable bowel syndrome, the predominant subtypeThis is key to choosing the most efficient treatment and preventing a diarrhea medication from worsening severe constipation (or vice versa).

Why does nervous colitis develop?

Causes of irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) does not have a single cause. It results from the interaction between biological, psychological, and environmental factorsIt is often referred to as a disorder of brain-gut axisThe digestive system has its own network of neurons (enteric nervous system) that is in constant communication with the brain. When this balance is disrupted, the gut becomes more sensitive and overreacts to stimuli that go unnoticed in other people.

Among the factors involved in the development of this disease, the following stand out: intense periods of stress (work, family, economic or academic), the traumatic experiences early, the presence of emotional disorders and genetic predispositionIf a family member has suffered from this disorder or other bowel diseases, the likelihood of another family member developing it increases.

Patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often have a altered immune systemIt is not always a weak system, but rather one that can react inappropriately to changes in the gut microbiota, previous infections, or chronic stress. It is not yet known with absolute certainty whether this alteration is a cause or a consequence of the disease, but it has been observed that there is low chronic inflammation of the intestinal mucosa and changes in the composition of the microorganisms of the gut (microbiota).

El environmental factor It is one of the most influential factors in the development of the disease and, paradoxically, one of the most overlooked in diagnosis: environmental pollution, regular consumption of tobacco and alcoholPoor food hygiene, sedentary work, few hours of sleep and continuous exposure to stressful situations are elements that contribute to the development and maintenance of nervous colitis.

In addition, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can appear after an episode of infectious gastroenteritis (viruses, bacteria, or parasites) that abruptly alter the intestinal flora. This is sometimes called post-infectious IBSIt can also be related to a bacterial overgrowth in the small intestineThis explains the intensity of gas, bloating, and abdominal distension in many people.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) should be based on several factors. typical symptoms and in the exclusion of other more serious organic diseases. There are multifactorial factors that directly influence the onset of colitis, therefore a flexible clinical criteria and, at the same time, rigorous in determining an accurate diagnosis.

During the consultation, the doctor performs a detailed medical history The questionnaire asks about the frequency, duration, and intensity of abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, the presence of mucus or blood, the existence of clear triggers (certain foods, stressful situations), and the impact on sleep and daily life. It also investigates personal and family medical history of inflammatory bowel diseasecolon cancer, food intolerances, and previous infections.

In addition to the interrogation, a thorough physical examinationpalpating the abdomen for points of pain, masses or distension, auscultating the bowel sounds (which allow assessment of bowel movement) and checking for signs of dehydration, weight loss, paleness or fever.

In many cases, requests are made laboratory and imaging studies to rule out other causes of colitis:

  • Blood Tests (to assess anemia, inflammation, infections, and the function of other organs).
  • Urine and fecal studies to rule out bacterial or parasitic infections or the presence of occult blood.
  • imaging tests such as ultrasound and abdominal x-ray, which help to verify that the organs are in a normal position and size and without signs of obstruction.
  • Colonoscopy In selected cases, it allows direct visualization of the colon to rule out ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, polyps, or tumors; it also allows biopsies to be taken if necessary.
  • Abdominal CT or MRI when there are diagnostic doubts or complications.

Symptoms characteristic of the disease may be observed, such as pain when defecatingAbdominal pain, severe cramps and colic, abdominal distension, flatulence, gas, a feeling of incomplete evacuation, mucus in stools, and urgent bowel movements. These symptoms, present recurrently for at least three monthsThey support the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome once other pathologies have been ruled out.

Men and women may present with different nuances in their symptoms. The presence of rectal mucus It can be different depending on sex, and the abdominal distension And the sensation of incomplete bowel movement can be much more intense in women than in men. It has also been observed that irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is more frequent in women and it usually starts in people under 50 years old, although it can appear at any age.

On the other hand, style and the quality of life These factors directly influence the course of the disease. Personal satisfaction, emotional stability, stress levels at home and at work, and the social support network determine the development, frequency, and intensity of flare-ups.

This type of disease limits the patient's life at a level emotional, sexual, mental and socialSome people lose social skills due to their condition, which sometimes limits their ability to go to certain places for fear of not finding a bathroom, or can cause them to have very uncomfortable moments in public due to the urgency to defecate or intestinal noises.

Main causes and triggering factors

As mentioned, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be caused by multiple factors. Some are predisposing (increasing the likelihood of developing it), and others act as triggers. direct triggers of the outbreaks. Among the most important are the high levels of stress, environmental factors, psychological factors and certain aspects of the eating.

Among the most frequent triggers highlighted by specialists are:

  • Drastic changes in the patient's habits (moving, changing jobs, night shifts, relationship breakups) that generate intense stress.
  • Conflict family prolonged, frequent arguments, or hostile home environments.
  • Conflict laborwork overload, authoritarian bosses, pressure for results, or fear of losing one's job.
  • Conflict sentimental and relationship issues, separations, jealousy, or insecurities that raise the level of anxiety.
  • Presence of economic difficulties or debts that cause constant worry.
  • Abuse of non-prescription drugsespecially laxatives, anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, or supplements taken without supervision.
  • Unstable psychological states such as depression, the anxiety, fear, frustration, the low self-esteem, the panic and the history of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.

Visceral hypersensitivity

Several studies show that patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome have a visceral hypersensitivityThat is, they react with intense pain to internal stimuli (such as passing gas or feces) that the rest of the population barely perceives. This heightened sensitivity is related to greater activation of certain areas of the central nervous system.

The pain caused by constipation, bloating, and abdominal burning can be perceived by the spinal cord and projected to brain centers such as the cerebral amygdalae and hypothalamusregions involved in pain processing and emotional response. This makes the experience more intense and distressing for the person.

The gut-brain axis is therefore affected by this hypersensitivity of the patient to certain stimuli that are part of the disease's symptoms. A vicious cycle is created: Pain increases anxietyAnxiety increases sensitivity to pain and this perpetuates episodes of colitis.

Psychological and emotional factors

Over 50% of patients Those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome often exhibit psychological problems, and in many cases these emotional disorders become the main cause or factor that perpetuates the clinical pictureDepression, anxiety disorders, chronic stress, insomnia, and persistent negative thoughts alter the way the brain processes signals coming from the gut.

It can be observed that the children of people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) present similar symptoms. This is due to a possible genetic predisposition as the emotional exposure to the parental model. The child grows up in an environment where abdominal pain, worry about digestion, and anxiety are frequent, which can sensitize their own gut-brain axis.

In turn, the same psychological factors can prevent the patient from going to the specialist, either because shameFear of diagnosis or negative previous experiences with the healthcare system can delay the start of appropriate treatment and contribute to the development of chronic conditions.

Moreover, the inflammation of the intestinal wall Low-grade microbial growth, associated with changes in the gut microbiota, is also implicated in the causes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). These microbial changes can result from infections, diets very low in fiber or high in ultra-processed foods, or from repeated antibiotic use, and are linked to increased gas production, local toxins, and abdominal discomfort.

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

The symptoms of this disease are numerous and vary depending on the type of colitis and the predominant functional subtype. However, there are some very common manifestations observed in most patients:

  • Diarrhea (loose or liquid stools, more frequent bowel movements, often urgent).
  • Abdominal pain Colicky or oppressive type, located mainly in the lower abdomen. It is usually relieved after defecation or the expulsion of gas.
  • Rectal bleeding Mild in some types of colitis (especially non-nervous); in classic IBS it is not common, so its presence should raise suspicion of other pathologies and requires immediate medical evaluation.
  • Rectal mucusThat is, expulsion of clear or whitish mucus mixed with feces or in isolation.
  • intense Colic and cramps before or during bowel movements.
  • Constipation (hard stools, infrequent bowel movements, excessive straining, feeling of blockage).
  • Gases and abundant flatulence, which may be accompanied by frequent burping and a feeling of heaviness.
  • Sensation of burning sensation in the walls of the colon and intestines, as well as burning in the rectum, especially after episodes of severe diarrhea.
  • Sensation of straining or tenesmusThat is, a constant need to go to the bathroom even if bowel movements are small or incomplete.
  • Main Courses headaches associated with digestive discomfort and sustained stress.
  • Fever Mild in some forms of colitis (especially infectious or inflammatory); in typical IBS it is not a constant symptom, and its presence should be carefully assessed.
  • Weight loss in cases where the patient avoids eating due to fear of pain or prolonged episodes of diarrhea or malabsorption.
  • Loss of appetite, early satiety and a feeling of fullness with small amounts of food.
  • Tiredness and Chronic fatigue due to the combination of pain, poor sleep quality, anxiety, and poor nutrient absorption.
  • Anemia In some types of colitis that involve bleeding or malabsorption, it causes paleness, weakness, and difficulty concentrating.
  • Dehydration if diarrhea is very frequent and fluids and electrolytes are not adequately replaced.
  • Nausea and sometimes vomiting, especially during acute outbreaks or after eating very irritating foods.
  • Sores on the mouth and skin alterations (bumps, inflammations) when it comes to systemic inflammatory colitis, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.

In irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), abdominal pain is usually diffuse or located in the lower abdomenThe pain does not usually radiate to other areas, is mild to moderate in intensity, and lasts less than two hours, subsiding after defecation. It does not usually wake the patient at night, so if the pain or diarrhea They constantly interrupt sleepYou should consult urgently to rule out other more serious illnesses.

When should you consult a doctor immediately?

It is important to know how to identify the so-called alarm dataIf, in addition to inflammation and pain, you notice any of the following signs, you should see a doctor as soon as possible:

  • Weight loss without apparent cause.
  • Diarrhea Night that wakes you up from sleep with an urgent need to go to the bathroom.
  • Rectal bleeding visible in feces, on paper or in the toilet.
  • Iron deficiency anemia or other types of anemia detected in a blood test.
  • Unexplained and persistent vomiting.
  • Abdominal pain that It does not get better when expelling gases or when evacuating, and which increases progressively.
  • High fever and intense general malaise.

These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition, such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, severe intestinal infection, or even Colorectal cancer, pathologies that require a different approach than irritable bowel syndrome.

Consequences of irritable bowel syndrome

The consequences of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) depend on the evolution time, the symptom intensity and the degree of adherence to treatmentAlthough irritable bowel syndrome does not usually cause serious damage such as deep ulcers or increase the risk of colorectal cancer, its impact on daily life can be very significant.

On an emotional level, many patients develop fear of leaving home...to travel or participate in social activities for fear of not finding a nearby bathroom or experiencing an episode of diarrhea or pain in public. This can lead to progressive isolation and worsen existing conditions. depression o anxiety and affect couple and family relationships.

In the workplace, recurring symptoms of pain and discomfort lead to frequent absences and a decrease in performance. Population studies have shown that people with moderate to severe irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) miss several times more workdays than those without this digestive disorder, impacting both personal finances and overall productivity.

In cases where colitis is combined with inflammatory bowel diseases, the consequences can be more severe: perforation of the intestinal walls, severe bleedingSystemic infections (sepsis) and even death can occur if proper and timely medical attention is not received. That is why it is vital do not self-medicate nor minimize the symptoms when they change pattern or suddenly worsen.

In all cases, it is extremely important that the patient avoid prolonged use of home remedies or medications without medical supervision and attend a consultation for a comprehensive evaluation. Only a specialist can determine if it is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, an infection, or another condition that may require further medical attention. surgical intervention or immunomodulatory treatments.

Treatments for irritable bowel syndrome

The treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is, by its very nature, comprehensive and personalizedTo date, there is no single medication that definitively cures irritable bowel syndrome, but there are multiple strategies that allow control the symptomsto improve quality of life and reduce the frequency and intensity of outbreaks.

In general terms, the pillars of the treatment are:

  • Changes in eating and during mealtimes.
  • Management of Stress and of emotional factors through specific techniques.
  • Use of drugs selected according to the subtype of colitis (with constipation, with diarrhea or mixed).
  • Activity regular physics tailored to each person.

There are several specific treatments to address the different levels of severity of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and to suit the type of patient:

  • Relaxation techniques: This type of treatment includes progressive muscle relaxation, diaphragmatic breathing, gentle yoga, and MindfulnessThese medications have proven to be very helpful for people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). They reduce nervous system activation, decrease intestinal hypersensitivity, and improve pain perception.
  • Behavioral and psychological therapies: la cognitive behavioral therapyAcceptance and commitment therapy and other psychological interventions work on the person's emotions regarding the disease, helping to manage stress levels, catastrophic thoughts and avoidance behaviors, progressively reducing the impact of colitis on daily life.

treatment for irritable bowel syndrome

Medicines to treat colitis

There is no medication that completely cures irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but there are drugs that help relieve the symptoms. inflammation, modify the intestinal motility and reduce the digestive and extraintestinal symptomsIn the management of colitis (nervous and inflammatory), three main groups of drugs are commonly used:

  • Amino salicylates: They have powerful properties anti-inflammatory at the level of the intestinal mucosa and are used primarily in ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel disease. Medications classified as such are: mesalamina, the mesalazine and sulfasalazine/sulfasalazineThe effect of these drugs is primarily topical and they should always be used under medical prescription. They can be found on the market under brand names such as Canasar, Pentasar, or Colazar, depending on the country.
  • Corticosteroids: This group of medications is used to treat outbreaks of acute intestinal inflammation In the short term. They effectively reduce pain, bleeding, and diarrhea, but their use should be strictly controlled by a specialistbecause they can produce significant side effects (fluid retention, weight gain, osteoporosis, glucose disturbances, etc.) and not all patients tolerate them well.
  • Immunoregulators and immunomodulators: They are administered orally or by injection, and are prescribed when none of the above are effective or when control of the immune response in the medium and long term.

In addition to these, other medications are frequently used in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, such as:

  • Antispasmodics, for reduce colon spasms and relieve colic-like pain.
  • Mild laxatives or supplements fiber In cases where constipation predominates, always under supervision to avoid worsening gas and bloating.
  • Specific medications for the Diarrhea In the subtype with predominantly liquid stools, avoid its indiscriminate use so as not to aggravate the condition in constipated individuals.
  • Selected probiotics and prebiotics, with the intention of improve gut microbiota and reduce inflammation and hypersensitivity.

In some patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the doctor may also prescribe low doses of psychiatric medications, such as certain antidepressants o anxiolytics, as they have been shown to improve pain threshold, sleep quality and subjective perception of digestive symptoms, even in people without deep depression.

Consume multivitamins High-quality supplements, under medical recommendation, can also help improve the patient's mood and correct possible nutritional deficiencies resulting from malabsorption or very restrictive diets applied out of fear of symptoms.

What kind of food should I eat?

If you are a patient suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you should choose to consume certain foods. easy to digest, low in saturated fats and high in water, soluble fiber and nutrients. The Fruits, vegetables, cooked vegetables, soft whole grains, and well-prepared grains They are ideal for reducing intestinal pain and improving transit, always adapting the amounts to your individual tolerance.

You should also limit or avoid consuming fatty red meatswhich become heavy on the digestive system and can cause constipation and intense gas. Instead, you can prioritize lean protein such as skinless chicken, turkey, white fish and some legumes in moderate amounts, according to personal tolerance.

You can choose to consume fish and seafood proteinsRich in omega-3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties, provided there is no allergy or intolerance and after consulting a specialist to avoid any pain caused by the diet. Also recommended are... healthy fats such as olive oil, avocado, or ground flax seeds.

What foods prevent colitis?

If you are someone who wants to prevent future digestive diseases or reduce the frequency of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) flare-ups, you can regularly incorporate the following foods into your diet:

  • Prunes: They are a very good source of fibers and sorbitol, which help regulate bowel movements. Drinking one or two glasses of water with soaked prunes can help prevent constipation, provided it is well tolerated and not overdone, to avoid diarrhea.
  • Apple: It has a high content of antioxidants and soluble fiber (pectin)which help protect the intestinal mucosa and regulate stool consistency, preventing both constipation and mild diarrhea.
  • Prebiotics: This term refers to the non-absorbable carbohydrates (such as inulin or fructooligosaccharides), which feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut and promote the action of probioticshelping to maintain a balanced microbiota and prevent constipation and inflammation.
  • Omega 3: Consume fish oil, flaxseeds, olive oil, canola oil, or soybean oil, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve the condition of the intestinal mucosa and reduce pain.
  • Aloe vera: It helps reduce the chances of developing severe symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. If you can consume aloe vera softgels or natural juices, do so in moderation and avoid packaged products, as they often contain a high content of [unclear - possibly "alcohol" or "vitamin C"]. added sugar and other additives.
What kinds of foods should I avoid?

A person suffering from colitis should avoid, as much as possible, foods that tend to irritate the intestinal mucosa or to produce a large amount of gas. Among the most problematic are very fatty foods spicy, rich in colorants and chemical additivesUltra-processed foods, dairy products in large quantities (especially if there is lactose intolerance), fatty red meats, certain citrus fruits and, in general, any type of food that prevents the colon from resting and regaining its balance.

It is recommended to eliminate or drastically reduce the following foods from the diet:

  • Alcohol, due to its direct irritant effect and its ability to alter the intestinal microbiota.
  • Coffee and other beverages with excessive caffeine, which increase intestinal motility and can trigger diarrhea and anxiety.
  • Green tea and black tea highly concentrated, due to their caffeine and tannin content.
  • Beans, lentils, and other legumes in large quantities or poorly cooked, because they generate gases and distensionalthough some people tolerate them well in small portions.
  • Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, garlic and onion, especially raw foods, as they can significantly increase flatulence in sensitive individuals.
  • Fatty sausages, fast food, fried foods, chocolates, popcorn, nuts, and products with refined sugar elevated

Every patient is different, so it's helpful to have a food record and symptoms to identify which specific foods worsen irritable bowel syndrome in each case and adjust the diet with the help of a nutrition professional.

What habits should I implement?

To control irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it is not enough to simply take specific medications; it is essential to implement a series of measures. Healthy lifestyle habits constantly.

First, you should try visit the doctor frequentlyespecially when symptoms change, worsen, or alarming signs appear. This allows for adjustments to treatment, a review of the diet, and the prevention of complications.

Secondly, it is essential to take care of the work habitsIf your job involves excessive stress, very long hours, or rotating shifts that affect sleep, discuss the possibility of [adjusting your sleep plan] with your doctor. reduce the workload Or rearrange your schedule according to your stress tolerance level and medical needs. Remember that your health is the most important thing, and a gut under constant stress will react with more colitis flare-ups.

It is also advisable to create a daily relaxation habit For a few minutes, you can practice activities like meditation, deep breathing, gentle yoga, or a leisurely walk. These practices help reduce nervous system activation, improve sleep, and manage pain levels. For many people, scheduling 10-20 minutes of these activities daily makes a noticeable difference in the frequency of their colitis flare-ups.

Regarding eating habits, the patient should eat their food from 5 to 6 times a day, a small portionsChewing thoroughly and avoiding eating in a hurry or when highly nervous is important. Eating slowly, sitting down, and without excessive distractions (such as screens or arguments) is ideal for maintaining a healthy digestive system and preventing it from being forced to perform tasks it's not prepared for during stressful times.

Keep a adequate weightRegular moderate physical activity, sufficient sleep, and a strong emotional support network, combined with good medical follow-up, allow many people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to return to a virtually normal life. The key is understanding the condition, listening to the body's signals, and taking preventative measures, rather than simply reacting to flare-ups.

Adopting an active and responsible attitude towards irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), combining medical treatment with mindful eating and good stress management, transforms this disorder from an unpredictable enemy into a condition that, although annoying, can be kept under control and allow for a full and satisfying life.