Join us as we discuss effective non-diet focused methods for IBS relief. In this episode, Kate and Dr. Riehl review key factors on how gender can influence common symptoms of IBS.

Hormones significantly influence IBS symptoms, with women being diagnosed 2.5 times more often than men, in part due to differences in gut function and pain perception. 

This episode features the following key discussion areas:

• Women's fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels affect gut motility and pain sensitivity throughout the menstrual cycle
• Visceral hypersensitivity causes normal digestive sensations to be interpreted as pain - like a car alarm going off unnecessarily
• The "microgenderome" refers to gender differences in gut microbiome that may contribute to women's higher rates of IBS and autoimmune conditions
• Gut-directed hypnotherapy helps reprogram the subconscious mind to interpret gut sensations more accurately, with 70-80% improvement rates
• Pelvic floor physical therapy can help address muscle tension that contributes to both constipation and diarrhea symptoms
• Non-diet approaches including medications, supplements like enteric-coated peppermint, and lifestyle factors are effective IBS management tools
• Regular exercise (especially in nature), adequate sleep, and stress management techniques complement other treatments

For more information on IBS-C treatments, check out our dedicated three-part series in episodes 14, 15, and 16.

This podcast has been sponsored by Ardelyx and Nerva by Mindset Health.

References:

Mulak A, Taché Y, Larauche M. Sex hormones in the modulation of irritable bowel syndrome. World J Gastroenterol. 2014;20(10):2433-2448. doi:10.3748/wjg.v20.i10.2433

Chang L, Heitkemper MM. Gender differences in irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterology. 2002;123(5):1686-1701. doi:10.1053/gast.2002.36603

Houghton LA, Jackson NA, Whorwell PJ, Morris J. Do male sex hormones protect from irritable bowel syndrome?. Am J Gastroenterol. 2000;95(9):2296-2300. doi:10.1111/j.1572-0241.2000.02314.x

Peters SL, Yao CK, Philpott H, Yelland GW, Muir JG, Gibson PR. Randomised clinical trial: the efficacy of gut-directed hypnotherapy is similar to that of the low FODMAP diet for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2016;44(5):447-459. doi:10.1111/apt.13706

Learn more about Kate and Dr. Riehl:

Website: www.katescarlata.com and www.drriehl.com
Instagram: @katescarlata @drriehl and @theguthealthpodcast

Order Kate and Dr. Riehl's book, Mind Your Gut: The Science-Based, Whole-body Guide to Living Well with IBS.

The information included in this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider before starting any new treatment or making changes to existing treatment.