IBS and Kids. The Importance of the Gut Flora. Dr Richard Hagmeyer

Life with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)is a frequent barrage of abdominal cramps and bloating and the miseries of diarrhea and constipation. The bowel malfunction at the root of IBS affects nearly 20 percent of Americans, or more than 58 million people. Children and teenagers are not exempt: Estimates of IBS among kids in the United States range from 7 percent of elementary school children to 14 percent of kids in high school.

Aside from the discomfort, IBS can be embarrassing for youngsters and teenagers and can add to the stresses of growing up. Help from family members and other caregivers may ease the physical and mental pain.

ScienceDaily (May 25, 2012) — An overgrowth of bacteria in the gut has been definitively linked to Irritable Bowel Syndrome in the results of a new Cedars-Sinai study which used cultures from the small intestine.

It’s nice to see that they are looking at these issues, but it’s important for parents to understand that there is a gigantic chasm between research like this and what is happening at the doctor’s office. This is a gap we’ve been seeking to fill at the Naperville Institute For NeuroMetabolic Solutions in Naperville IL.

At The Naperville Institute For Neuro Metabolic Solutions Our IBS Treatment Program

consists of identifying and correcting these 10 keys

The Ten Keys to Curing IBS and other GI Related Problems are centered around Key issues you see below.

1. Altered levels of beneficial bacteria (probiotics)
2. Are there infectious bacteria, yeast or parasites? we call this dysbiosis.
3. Is their sufficient digestive enzymes? (especially if you have lost your gall bladder)
4. Has the PH of the lower Bowel been altered?
5. Is there an Intolerances to Dairy products?
6. Is there an Intolerances to Fructose (fruit sugars ?)

7. Is there an Intolerances to Egg or Soy containing foods
8. Celiac Disease (a gluten problem, but different than a gluten intolerance)
9. Are there other delayed Hypersensitivities to Foods (Corn, Tapioca, Quinoa, Oats)

10. Are there Thyroid, Adrenal or Pituitary Hormone Imbalances?

Facts and Reasons Why the Gut Should Always Be Evaluated

The gut makes up approximately 75% of the entire body’s immune function.(If the GI tract is compromised, the immune system is, too.)
The microbiota (bugs) in our gut number in the trillions and may include over 500 unique species. (Many of these species are yet to be identified. By a margin of 10:1, our human cells are outnumbered by bacteria…be kind to your bugs, we surely don’t want to encourage a revolt!)
Each individual has his/her own microbial fingerprint.(Be on the lookout for more on gut enterotypes, which will help us customize individualized microbial treatment for patients in the near future.)
The gut produces just as many neurotransmitters as the brain.(This is a big tie in to mental/emotional dysfunction. As an example, over 97% of chronic fatigue patients fit diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder; interestingly enough, over 50% also meet diagnostic criteria for IBS. Coincidence, I think not!)
Studies have linked increased anxiety levels to microbial infections in the gut.(Mouse studies have demonstrated that groups of mice with different microbial populations demonstrate very different motor activity and anxiety-like behavior. Ever overeaten some type of vittles and paid for it afterwards? Ever felt super sluggish and in dampened spirits afterwards? Here’s a study telling us why!)
The presence of food allergies has been linked to neurological disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, and panic disorder. (In cases of schizophrenia, patients who are also diagnosed as having celiac disease have experienced a return to health with compliance to a gluten-free diet.)

Learn more about Advanced Testing and a Non Drug approach to the Treatment of IBS Here