If you have IBS, you’ve likely found yourself asking questions like, “What should I eat to calm my gut?” or “What foods should I avoid to prevent symptoms?” Because food can trigger symptoms, it’s natural to focus on what to eat or avoid. But here is the thing, IBS is about more than just food. And, focusing solely on what to eat or avoid is what keeps you stuck.
What if the real question isn’t about food at all? What if the actual question is:
“What skills do I need to manage my IBS so I can enjoy food, travel, and life without fear?”
The Problem with Focusing Only on Food
If you’ve had IBS for more than 5 minutes, you’ll know that symptoms are unpredictable. One day, you can eat something without issue then the next, the same food triggers pain, bloating, or worse. It’s no wonder you might feel like food is the enemy. The thing is, IBS is never just about food.
IBS is classified as a disorder the gut-brain interaction (DGBI). In a nutshell, the nerves in the gut collect information about digestion and report to the brain. The brain assesses the information and responds telling the gut how fast or slow to move and how sensitive it should be. If this interaction is disrupted, the gut becomes more sensitive and can start to behave abnormally leading to pain, bloating and irregular bowel movements.
When it comes to food, some foods are harder to digest than others, this is normal, and for most people just leads to minor fluctuations in gut sensations that are barely noticeable. In someone with IBS on the other hand, these sensations are heightened as a result of miscommunication between the gut and the brain resulting in pain, bloating, cramps and altered bowel movements.
While removing foods that are harder to digest can help with symptoms, it doesn’t address the underlying cause of your symptoms, and it becomes a trade-off. Food is never just about nutrition, it’s about pleasure, connecting with loved ones, travel and memories. These are all compromised by a restrictive diet. Additionally, focusing on food amplifies the food symptom association leading to apprehension around food choices.
It’s important to know that your gut brain axis is also influenced by sleep, stress, hormones and more. These, along with food will impact the way your body responds and digests food.
The good news is that by addressing ALL the factors that affect your IBS, you can improve your tolerance to foods and develop strategies that improve your symptoms, improve your tolerance and even make IBS less bothersome. Ultimately, The goal isn’t just managing symptoms, it’s more about improving your quality of life.
Building Your IBS Toolbox
To truly manage IBS, you need more than a list of foods to avoid. You need a set of skills and strategies that empower you to take control. We call this your IBS toolbox. Here’s what it includes:
- A trusted food list: Learn what foods are involved in your symptoms so you can make informed choices without unnecessary restriction.
- Addressing Non-Food Factors: Stress, poor sleep, and hormonal changes can all worsen IBS. Developing strategies to manage these is crucial.
- Using Targeted Medications and Supplements: Not every product works for everyone. The key is finding evidence-based options that address your specific symptoms.
- Planning for Symptom Management: Life happens, and symptoms can’t always be avoided. Having a plan in place for symptom flare-ups can reduce anxiety and help you regain control faster.
Imagine life with your IBS under control
Picture this: You’re at a restaurant with friends, choosing something from the menu with confidence. You’re on a weekend getaway, enjoying local cuisine without fear. You’re savouring your favourite foods and simply enjoying the moment.
This isn’t just wishful thinking. This is what we are here for and with the right tools and guidance, it’s entirely possible.
Ready to Take a Control of your IBS For Good?
If you’re tired of food fear, endless symptom tracking, and feeling like your gut is in charge of your life, The FAST Freedom Program is here to help.
In just 6 weeks, you’ll learn how to:
✅ Break free from restrictive eating and safely expand your diet
✅ Understand the gut-brain connection and how it affects symptoms
✅ Stop over-researching and start trusting your body again
✅ Develop a flexible, sustainable approach to managing IBS
Imagine sitting down to a meal and feeling confident, not anxious. Traveling without worrying about flare-ups. Enjoying food again.
This isn’t just possible—it’s what we help people do every day.
Spots are limited! Don’t miss your chance to rebuild your food confidence and take control of your IBS.
👉 Join today and start your journey toward freedom!
