IBS symptoms can stop you in your tracks. Can acupuncture help?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic condition which can leave you with nasty abdominal symptoms such as pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or all of the above. While there is no known cure for IBS, there are various strategies available that can help manage the symptoms, including acupuncture.
Since ancient times...
... we have known that our digestion is important in maintaining health. Many ancient cultures used herbs and food as a way of regulating the human body. In ancient China there was a whole school of thought developed that looked into the digestive system, as a major cause of illness.
"All disease starts in the gut." Hippocrates
In ancient China there was a whole school of thought that looked into the digestive system, as a major cause of illness. The digestive organs were considered responsible for taking in food and drink and transforming them into the raw energy needed for daily function.
So what upsets the digestive organs?
Li Dong-Yuan believed that the cause of damage to these organs was the result of:
Eating and drinking excessive amounts of cold, raw, fatty or "unclean" foods.
Overwork which leads to exhaustion
Excess emotional stress
Upset digestion leads physically to exhaustion and listlessness + loss of appetite, loose stools and a feeling of heaviness. Mentally, you end up with foggy thinking, a tendency to run thoughts over and over in your mind and a lack of direction. You can't digest your food or your thoughts. This leads to further emotional upset which further disrupts the physical process of nourishment. Such a negative feedback system can then lead to other problems beyond the digestive organs.
How can acupuncture help?
Studies have shown that acupuncture can be effective in treating IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. It works by stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and by regulating the nervous system.
Acupuncture is a safe and non-invasive option for IBS, and can be used along with diet and lifestyle changes, while not interfering with any current medication. If you suffer from IBS and are looking for a natural and effective way to manage your symptoms, acupuncture may be a worthwhile option to consider.
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