Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be very debilitating with abdominal discomfort, bloating, excess wind and frequent loose stools. IBS can severely affect quality of life (QOL). Various hypotheses have been put forward as causes for this chronic condition including stress, disordered bowel flora and sensitivity to gas forming carbohydrates in the diet such as fermentable FODMAPs including lactose, wheat, certain fruits and vegetables. Interventions include a low FODMAP diet, introduction bifidobacteria probiotic supplementation and even a non-absorbable antibiotic to clear any offending bowel flora thought to trigger IBS. This antibiotic Rifaximin is taken 3 times a day for 2 weeks to clear the bowel flora and doesn’t have any systemic effects. Preliminary studies have been encouraging, but further studies are planned.
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