Take Your Prescribed Recommendations for IBS-C

Supplements and prescribed medication for those suffering from IBS-C may help alleviate symptoms and improve bowel movements. However, it's important to note that not all supplements are created equal.

In this article, we will discuss some recommended supplements for IBS-C that may help manage symptoms and improve overall digestive health. Please note that it is essential to follow the medication and supplement routine recommended by your Salvo Health provider.

If you are interested in making changes to your routine, reach out to your doctor in Chat before taking any new supplement.

Psyllium

Psyllium is a soluble fiber that dissolves in the gut to form a gel-like substance. Dietary supplementation is both safe and effective in improving IBS symptoms. Dietary fiber acts on the gastrointestinal tract by bulking up the stool, improving the movement of gut contents through the intestine, promoting beneficial bacteria, and even regulating the immune and neuroendocrine systems. Dietary fiber can have other health benefits as well including lowering cholesterol, stabilizing blood sugar, and helping promote a healthy weight.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed is a functional food high in both soluble fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed may be useful for both constipation and diarrhea due to its laxative and stool-bulking properties respectively.

L-Glutamine

L-glutamine is an amino acid, produced by the body and consumed in protein-rich foods from both plants and animals. Glutamine is an important source of energy for the cells that make up the gut lining, but stores can be depleted during times of illness, stress, or infection leading to gastrointestinal symptoms. Supplementation with L-glutamine has been shown to aid in cellular repair and decrease IBS symptoms when accompanied by an IBS-friendly diet.

Aloe Vera 

Aloe vera is a well-known plant often found in households, appreciated for its ability to heal wounds. It contains more than 75 compounds that possess numerous therapeutic properties, such as anticancer, antioxidant, and antidiabetic effects. Analysis of several studies shows that aloe extracts may be beneficial in reducing overall symptoms of IBS.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is derived from the peppermint plant - a common herb used to flavor food and as a fragrance in personal care products. When taken orally, peppermint oil has been shown to safely reduce the discomfort experienced with IBS. This is because the L-menthol found in peppermint oil relaxes the smooth muscle in the gut leading to fewer spasms and less pain. In fact, peppermint oil is recommended by the American College of Gastroenterology to reduce the discomfort and overall symptoms associated with IBS.

Magnesium Citrate 

Magnesium is a critical mineral in the body helping to power more than 600 enzymes and maintain cellular health.Supplemental magnesium citrate tends to be well tolerated with low rates of side effects. When used for the occasional relief of constipation, magnesium works by drawing fluid into the intestine which can soften the stool and promote gut motility.

Senna Tea 

Senna is a flowering plant that grows in tropical climates and has been used for centuries as a stimulant laxative.Indeed, senna has been shown to be effective in improving the frequency of bowel movements and relieving occasional constipation. Senna should only be used short-term and in small doses, as longer-term use can lead to side effects. 

Polyethylene Glycol (Miralax)

Miralax comes as a powder that is mixed with water for the relief of constipation. It is what is known as an osmotic agent, drawing fluid into the gut to soften the stool and stimulate motility. Miralax stays in the gut and is not absorbed into the body which explains its low risk of side effects.

Guanylate Cyclase-C Agonists

Both Linaclotide (Linzess) and Plecanatide (Trulance) are approved by the FDA for use in irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. These medications bind to a receptor on the cells lining the intestine triggering an increase in fluid secretion and movement in the gut. Studies have shown that both linaclotide and plecanatide are safe and effective in reducing symptoms of IBS-C with the most common side effect being loose stools.

Probiotics 

A growing body of evidence suggests that alterations in the microbiome, or bacteria living in the gut, contribute to the onset and symptomatology of irritable bowel syndrome. Probiotics, or “good bacteria” may be useful in treating IBS. Studies show that certain strains of bacteria are more effective than others at reducing symptoms including Lactobacillus plantarum, Streptococcus faecium, and Bifidobacterium.