Kids & IBS: The Gut Solution

It can be exhausting and overwhelming to care for a child suffering from Irritable Bowl Syndrome (IBS).

What can make it even more difficult is not knowing the direct cause of your child's IBS. Symptoms can be brought on if there is any disturbance between your child's gut and nervous system.

An example of this disturbance can be stress.

IBS can cause your child discomfort, altered bowel movement (constipation, diarrhea or both), nausea, signs of depression, insomnia and fatigue.

What treatment options are available to help ease your child's pain?

Authors Dr. Michael Lawson and Dr. Jessica Del Pozo realized there was no quick fix for IBS, especially when it comes to kids. As a result, they came up with the SEEDS guide for both you and your child. SEEDS stands for stress management, education, exercise, diet and sleep. These five elements incorporated together can relieve all symptoms and get your child back to feeling healthier and happier.

For example, if your family is going through lifestyle changes such as a separation in the family or having to move it can cause a great deal of stress. Allowing your child to be able to talk to someone about what she is going through and incorporating a relaxation "time out" sometime during the day can help ease the feelings of change and relieve gastrointestinal distress.

When it comes to your child's diet, what types of foods should you promote?

Probiotics, which are healthy bacteria that produce a digestive enzyme, have been shown to aid maintaining a healthy gut. However, probiotics alone are not enough to ease IBS symptoms. Staying away from sugary, processed foods which can take a toll on your gut will help eliminate unwanted bloat and discomfort.

What are some other ways the SEEDS guide can help relieve your child of IBS?

Dr. Lawson and Dr. Del Pozo join Dr. Mike to reveal the best solutions available for functional gastrointestinal disorders in your child.