Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS for short) is a common disorder of the gut. Symptoms experienced by sufferers commonly include bloating, abdominal pain and cramping, diarrhoea and constipation. Further symptoms can include back, muscular and joint pain, tiredness, nausea, headaches, and psychological symptoms such as depression and anxiety. It is estimated that 20% people suffer with the disorder, which is found more in women than men. The syndrome first develops commonly during teenage and young adult life (15-40 years of age), although it is known to occur at any age. The cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome remains undiscovered. Commonly it is thought that symptoms may be triggered by psychological causes, such as periods of great personal stress, or when a person is feeling anxious or depressed. Another theory is that the intestines of sufferers may be overactive when contracting during food digestion, leading to diarrhoea, or instead may be slow and sluggish, causing constipation. However, many people report that particular foods can cause the disorder’s symptoms. It is thought that the bowels of sufferers are more sensitive than those without the disorder, which can set off reactions to particular foods and drinks, causing the symptoms.

Alcohol and Irritable Bowel Syndrome have been highlighted by many sufferers as a bad combination. Many find that just one or two glasses of alcohol can set off symptoms such as abdominal pain. However, this aversion to alcohol appears to vary largely from person to person, and other sufferers are able to drink without problem on a night out or on special occasions. For those who struggle when drinking alcohol, it is thought that the alcohol is an irritant to the delicate lining of the gut, which causes such symptoms as abdominal pain. Alcohol is also a dehydrating drink for the stomach, and this in turn will worsen the feelings of pain and cramping further down the digestive system. In addition the cream in crème liqueurs and certain cocktails, and also carbonated drinks such as beer and champagne, can pose additional irritation on the intestinal lining.

When trying to balance a life of alcohol and Irritable Bowel Syndrome, it is recommended that those who struggle to drink alcohol should reduce the amount they drink. Although it is possibly most advisable to remove alcohol completely from the diet, should sufferers not wish to it is recommended that alcohol is drunk only on special occasions or from time to time. This prevents regular or constant strain on the gut, and as a result the chance of alcohol causing symptoms is lessened. Sufferers are also advised to limit the amount of alcohol consumed per sitting. One or two units is advised. In addition to drinking alcohol, it is recommended that those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome drink plenty of water. This will dilute the alcohol being digested, and prevent the body from becoming dehydrated; particularly important if the alcohol has caused diarrhoea. Alcohol is also not recommended to be drunk on an empty stomach, as this will increase the effect the alcohol will have on the intestinal walls. It is often advised that those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome should follow a healthy and well-balanced diet.

Mack LeMouse

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