Shows
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Shocking new IBS survey confirms what you've always known...Shocking new IBS survey confirms what you've always known...72% say IBS makes them feel “not normal” and that having IBS isn’t just about the gut. It’s about the upheaval IBS causes to your whole life...Results are in from a 2024 national comprehensive survey by the American Gastroenterological Association that included over 2,000 IBS patients and 600 health care providers.The findings are awful.Get the help you need to take control of your IBS, starting here…You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your s...2025-08-0902 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS restaurant tip. Slow down!Audio. IBS restaurant tip. Slow down!Sit, breathe, chew, rest....Get more help with the restaurant guide from Eating for IBS.You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XOXOHeather2025-08-0801 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. Calcium and magnesium and IBS...Audio. Calcium and magnesium and IBS...Play important but opposite roles in regulating gut motilityIn a nutshell:Calcium → muscle contraction → slows motilityMagnesium → muscle relaxation & water retention in the gut → speeds motilityAnd more about how vitamins and minerals affect IBS…You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I...2025-08-0701 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. Peppermint vs chili peppers for pain relief?Audio. IBS news flash. Peppermint vs chili peppers for pain relief? Menthol and capsaicin battle it out in a new clinical studyA new systematic review and meta-analysis in Food & Function analyzed multiple randomized controlled trials to compare how menthol (from peppermint) and capsaicin (from chili peppers) affect abdominal pain in people with IBS.And more about peppermint for IBS…You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or commen...2025-08-0601 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS quick tip. Use some type of relaxation technique daily...Audio. IBS quick tip. Use some type of relaxation technique daily...Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, tai chi, meditationAnd more about stress and IBS…You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS co...2025-08-0500 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. There's a right way to sit on the toilet...Audio. There's a right way to sit on the toilet...And it plays a critical role in supporting healthy, comfortable, and complete bowel movementsAnd more help for IBS constipation…You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please...2025-08-0402 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. Gut microbiome toxins linked to fatigue in women with IBS, chronic fatigue syndromeAudio. IBS news flash. Gut microbiome toxins linked to fatigue in women with IBS, chronic fatigue syndromeNeuroactive metabolites produced by gut microbes may contribute to fatigue And some questions to ask your doc about IBS…You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyo...2025-08-0200 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS quick tip. Pelvic floor therapy can helpAudio. IBS quick tip. Pelvic floor therapy can helpYour pelvic floor muscles support your lower digestive organs and play a role in bowel function... And more about IBS…You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join m...2025-08-0100 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. COVID led to IBS and idiopathic constipation surgeAudio. IBS news flash. COVID led to IBS and idiopathic constipation surgePrevalence of IBS in adults nearly doubled during two year COVID-19 pandemic And more about COVID and IBS…You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please...2025-07-3100 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS fast fact. Here's a weird one!Audio. IBS fast fact. Here's a weird one!Sensory stimuli like smells, lights, and sounds can trigger IBS symptomsSensory stimuli like perfumes, traffic noise, or fluorescent lights really can set off or worsen IBS symptoms.The exact mechanisms are not fully understood, but it’s likely due to central nervous system sensitization common in IBS patients triggering a stress response that affects the gut-brain axis.And more about the IBS brain-gut dysfunction…You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please b...2025-07-3000 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. Gut microbes help expel ‘forever chemicals’ from the bodyAudio. IBS news flash. Gut microbes help expel ‘forever chemicals’ from the bodyPreviously, the only way to reduce levels of Pfas was by bloodletting or a drug with unpleasant side effectsIn the first research of its kind, the University of Cambridge found that certain kinds of gut microbes absorb toxic Pfas “forever chemicals” and help expel them from the body via feces.You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any que...2025-07-2901 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. Can you take your fiber supplement with medications?Audio. Can you take your fiber supplement with medications? Maybe!Tip Takeaway: Treat your fiber supplement like food. If your medication must be taken on an empty stomach, take it one hour before, or two hours after, your fiber supplement/meals. If your medication can be taken with food, it can typically be taken with fiber. But always ask your pharmacist to be sure!You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any ques...2025-07-2802 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. Melatonin for IBS symptoms and sleep disordersAudio. IBS news flash. Melatonin for IBS symptoms and sleep disordersSublingual melatonin outperforms placeboA new study has found that the the severity of IBS symptoms and quality of life scores were significantly better in a sublingual melatonin group compared to the placebo group.You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me dire...2025-07-2700 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS restaurant tip. Always order a meal based on soluble fiber safe foods...Audio. IBS restaurant tip. Always order a meal based on soluble fiber safe foods...At any restaurant, keep your gut stable by ordering a meal based on soluble fiber safe foods. And get more help with the restaurant guide from Eating for IBS.You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am o...2025-07-2500 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. Childhood IBS may predict interstitial cystitisAudio. IBS news flash. Childhood IBS may predict interstitial cystitis New research shows bladder pain and frequent, urgent urination linked to early-life IBSIn the first research of its kind, a new study comprehensively explored the relationships between childhood IBS and the risk of developing interstitial cystitis (IC) in adulthood.You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to r...2025-07-2500 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS fast fact. Tight clothes make IBS worse...Audio. IBS fast fact. Tight clothes make IBS worse...Increased pressure on your abdomen can cause bloating, trapped gas, and painAnd more about IBS symptoms…You are not alone.Heather’s IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS co...2025-07-2400 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.One of the best live events with Heather! How to beat the summer heat if you're struggling with IBS...Dive into the full on, full length, full frontal (just kidding!) pedal to the metal live event that covered anything and everything about how to beat the summer heat with IBS. As always with live events, things take on a life of their own and spiral into all kinds of other IBS issues. So odds are good we covered questions that are affecting you right now.If you missed the original live event dive in here to beat the summer heat...You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter...2025-07-121h 36
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. ADHD linked to higher risk of IBSAudio. IBS news flash. ADHD linked to higher risk of IBSLink between attention-deficit hyperactivity and intestinal disordersAnd more about the brain-gut axis behind IBS…You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join...2025-06-1001 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. With IBS, HOW you eat matters just as much as WHAT you eat...Audio. With IBS, HOW you eat matters just as much as WHAT you eat...You're not crazy here. And easy tips and tricks make a world of difference...And get more help with the restaurant guide from Eating for IBS.You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails bu...2025-06-0902 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS restaurant tip. Just because you don't see a problem ingredient listed...Audio. IBS restaurant tip. Just because you don't see a problem ingredient listed...Doesn't mean it's not in there.And get more help with the restaurant guide from Eating for IBS.You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need im...2025-06-0700 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. Bad IBS news flash. Osteoporosis linked to IBSAudio. Bad IBS news flash. Osteoporosis linked to IBSSignificantly increased risk of osteoporosis among IBS patientsAnd more about taking vitamins and minerals with IBS…You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my priv...2025-06-0600 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. Herbs as medicine for IBS? Caraway is an unexpected option...Audio. Herbs as medicine for IBS? Caraway is an unexpected option...The idea that herbs are nature's medicines really applies to IBS. You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XOXO...2025-06-0501 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. There's a Dietary Index of Gut Microbiota!Audio. IBS news flash. There's a Dietary Index of Gut Microbiota!Newly developed measure for judging diet quality in relation to diversity of your gut microbiomeYou are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS co...2025-06-0400 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS quick tip. White warning! Condiments, sauces, dips, dressings and soups...Audio. IBS quick tip. Watch out for white! Condiments, sauces, dips, dressings and soups...Mayonnaise, tartar sauce, aiolis, Alfredos, sour cream, Greek garlic sauces, cream cheese, whipped cream, salad dressings, chowders, bisquesIf you’re eating for IBS you need to go low fat (but not fat free), as fat is a huge IBS trigger.So avoid anything white that is a condiment, sauce, dip, or soup.Why? Because that white color almost always means it’s high fat, or dairy, or both.Think mayonnaise, tartar sauce, aiolis, Alfredos, sour...2025-06-0300 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. Worst drinks for IBSAudio. Worst drinks for IBSAlcohol, soda pop, dairy, energy drinks, coffee, detox or diet teas, sport beverages...You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XOXOHeather...2025-06-0204 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS deep dive! Guardians of the gastrointestinal galaxy...Audio. IBS deep dive! Guardians of the gastrointestinal galaxy...Macrophages and the gut barrier. Jump in!You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XOXOHeatherHeather Va...2025-06-0101 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS sweet treat! Fresh mint mojito sorbetAudio. IBS sweet treat! Fresh mint mojito sorbetThe perfect dessert for a summery day...You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XOXOHeatherHeather Van Vo...2025-05-3101 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. Gut hormone peptide levels lower in people with IBSIBS news flash. Peptide & neuropeptide levels lower in people with IBSAbnormality in the large intestine might contribute to dysmotility and pain, bloating, gas in IBS You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS co...2025-05-3001 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS fast fact. IBS cannot be self-diagnosed. But...Audio. IBS fast fact. IBS cannot be self-diagnosed. But...Once a doctor diagnoses you, symptoms - and your life - can be managed.You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XO...2025-05-2900 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. Adverse childhood experiences linked to adult chronic pain including IBSAudio. IBS news flash. Adverse childhood experiences linked to adult chronic pain including IBSFunctional and structural brain alterations associated with adverse childhood experiencesYou are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching....2025-05-2800 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. Have an IBS free Memorial Day!Audio. Have an IBS free Memorial Day!You are not unheard and you are not alone.You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XOXOHeatherHeather Va...2025-05-2701 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. A pacemaker for your gut?Audio. A pacemaker for your gut?Electrical stimulation of the gut to treat gastrointestinal motility disorders You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XOXOHeatherHeather Va...2025-05-2601 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS restaurant tip. Don't laugh! This really works...Audio. IBS restaurant tip. Don't laugh! This really works...Eat your green salad last, not first....You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XOXOHeatherHeather Va...2025-05-2500 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. Memorial Day picnic plans?Audio. Memorial Day picnic plans?Make it IBS friendly, fun and delicious!You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XOXOHeatherHeather Van Vorous Over 40 years de...2025-05-2401 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. Herpes virus triggers gut dysfunctionAudio. IBS news flash. Herpes virus triggers gut dysfunctionHerpes simplex virus infects the enteric nervous system and disrupts the gut bacterial community You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XO...2025-05-2301 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. Herbs as medicine for IBS? Anise is a good bet...Audio. Herbs as medicine for IBS? Anise is a good bet...The idea that herbs are nature's medicines really applies to IBS. You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try to answer everyone. If you need immediate help please join my private IBS coaching.XOXO...2025-05-2200 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. Elimination diet based on immunoglobulin G (IgG)Audio. IBS news flash. Elimination diet based on immunoglobulin G (IgG) The experimental diet eliminated foods based on a positive ELISA result.A new study has found that an irritable bowel syndrome elimination diet based on a novel IBS–specific, immunoglobulin G (IgG) was superior to a sham diet for abdominal pain.The study involved IBS patients testing positive for at least one food on 18-food IgG ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) testing.The primary outcome was a 30% decrease in abdominal pain intensity for 2 of the last 4 weeks of treatment.Th...2025-05-2101 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS quick tip. How to minimize the risk of trigger foods...Audio. IBS quick tip. How to minimize the risk of trigger foods...By eating in small quantities, after soluble fiber safe foods. This is where HOW you eat for IBS, not just WHAT you eat, can make a big difference. The risk of IBS trigger foods can be tremendously minimized if they're eaten in small quantities following soluble fiber safe foods.You can also take a dose of your Tummy Fiber for IBS here for an added safety measure.This is where HOW you eat for IBS, not just WHAT you...2025-05-2000 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. The direct connection between sleep and IBS...The direct connection between sleep and IBS...Can losing sleep make IBS worse? Oh yes...Sleep - more precisely, not enough of it - is a physical body stressor.Stress of any kind inhibits the parasympathetic nervous system, and stimulates excessive adrenaline production, which upsets the rhythmic muscle contractions of the gut. This triggers IBS symptoms.Double whammy. Lack of sleep causes not just fatigue but a lower stress-tolerance level on top of that.Upshot? When you're tired, IBS is much more likely to flare. There's a...2025-05-1901 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS restaurant tip. When you read menus look for these...IBS restaurant tip. When you read menus look for these...Choose low fat, trigger free, high soluble fiber meals.On restaurant menus look for low fat, high soluble fiber based meals.Think seafood or skinless chicken breasts broiled or baked, with rice or potatoes.Choose items that are poached, steamed, or grilled.Resist the fried options and cream sauces. Avoid the red meat and dairy.For delis lean towards tuna or shaved turkey breast sandwiches. Mustard is fine (a digest aid actually!) but hold the mayo and...2025-05-1600 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS fast fact. Prebiotics vs probioticsIBS fast fact. Prebiotics vs probioticsWhat's the difference?Prebiotics and probiotics are not the same thing.Prebiotics are specific soluble fibers that ferment (slowly or rapidly) in the gut. That fermentation creates an environment of beneficial short chain fatty acids, such as butyrates. This environment encourages the growth of healthy gut flora including bacteria and yeasts. (And it only encourages the good guys.)Probiotics are those beneficial live bacteria and yeast strains. (These good guys then keep bad guys in check.)You can and should get...2025-05-1401 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. IBS news flash. No more blanket diagnosis. Is it IBS or something else?IBS news flash. No more blanket diagnosis. Is it IBS or something else? IBS is misdiagnosed all the time, and used to be a blanket diagnosis...The symptoms of IBS can overlap with other conditions, including celiac, IgG4-RD, giardiasis, IBD, diverticular disease, and food poisoning.IBS used to be considered a blanket diagnosis but that is no longer the case.Current IBS diagnostic practices must follow the specific Rome Criteria.You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a pa...2025-05-1300 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick tip. Think moderation, not feast or famineIBS quick tip. Think moderation, not feast or famineSkipping meals, overeating, irregular eating schedules, fasting or bingeing, all disrupt digestion. Inconsistent eating patterns are terrible for IBS.Skipping meals, overeating, irregular eating schedules, fasting or bingeing - all disrupt your digestion. And IBS by definition is already causing gut motility issues. Your gut does not like going to extremes or wild swings. Your goal with IBS is to get your gut on an even keel. Keep your gut motility in a calm consistent pattern by eating...2025-05-1200 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Worst night out for IBS...Worst night out for IBS...It's terrible!Going out and about sometimes can be a little scary with IBS. What if you have an attack away from home? What if you can’t find a bathroom? Out on a date? Those fears can become overwhelming.Yesterday I covered my best IBS date night!Today, it’s my worst:It’s Friday, I’m already tired, didn’t sleep well last night, and I’ve had a rough week. It’s been such a crazy day I haven’t eate...2025-05-1002 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Audio. Best date night out for IBS...Best date night out for IBS...And the worst!Going out and about sometimes can be scary with IBS. What if you have an attack away from home? What if you can’t find a bathroom?And if you’re out on a date? Those fears can become overwhelming.So here’s my ideal IBS-friendly night out!I start early, late afternoon instead of evening.I’m already well rested from the night before and I’ve had a good week.I’ve had a nice safe br...2025-05-0902 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. Why women experience more digestive issues than menIBS news flash. Why women experience more digestive issues than menYour intestines might be listening to your ovaries...Women are far more likely to suffer from IBS, bloating, constipation, and gut sensitivity than men. Why? It’s the connection between hormonal fluctuations, stress, the gut-brain axis, and conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) and menopause that affect digestive health. In other words, your intestines might be listening to your ovaries. And that’s not just anecdotal, it’s a physiological reality supported by science and data.What d...2025-05-0800 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Herbs as medicine for IBS? Try chamomile, especially at bedtime...Herbs as medicine for IBS? Try chamomile, especially at bedtime...The idea that herbs are nature's medicines really applies to IBS. The idea that herbs are nature's medicines really applies to IBS. Chamomile, Matricaria recutita or Matricaria chamomilla, is known for its calming effect on smooth muscle tissue. Your entire gut is smooth muscle tissue.This makes chamomile really helpful for gastrointestinal spasms (and bonus! menstrual cramps). It can also relieve gut tension resulting from stress. Chamomile can give quick relief of indigestion and gas.It’s be...2025-05-0701 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. Thyroid function, IBS, and body metabolismIBS news flash. Thyroid function, IBS, and body metabolismWhat's the connection?Metabolism is often thought of as a simple equation of calories in and calories out. But at its core, it’s an intricate network of hormonal, digestive, and immune functions working in sync.Two conditions that often disrupt this balance yet are rarely discussed together are Irritable Bowel Syndrome and hypothyroidism.There is a fascinating and deeply interconnected relationship between the gut and thyroid.This has profound implications for understanding, diagnosing, and treating metabolic disorders.Le...2025-05-0600 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick tip. Watch out for hidden fat...but where?IBS quick tip. Watch out for hidden fat...but where?In foods that seem IBS safe but may not be...Watch out for hidden fat in seemingly safe foods:biscuitssconespancakeswafflesrestaurant French toastcrackersmashed potatoeschowdersgranolastore-bought dried (usually fried) bananasAlways read ingredients, watch for dairy, and check the fat content.Fat is a huge gut stimulant and IBS trigger.You...2025-05-0500 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Bad news about aloe vera, senna, cascara and IBSBad news about aloe vera, senna, cascara and IBS The potential risks are very high, and there are no established benefits for IBS symptoms.Does aloe vera help IBS? What about using senna? Or cascara?Aloe vera is known for treating minor burns and skin irritations. But is it safe and helpful to use internally for IBS?Not Likely. Aloe vera is classified by the FDA as a Class 1 harsh stimulant laxative.The anthroquinones and anthrones in aloe cause faster and stronger bowel contractions.With IBS, this...2025-05-0402 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Letters to Heather - Kim's husband saved her lifeLetters to Heather - Kim's husband saved her lifeWhen her IBS was no longer bearable...I have stacks of letters from readers, going back to 1998, and I continue to get new ones every day. For years, people have told me "you should share these letters with everyone, they could really make a difference in people's lives." So, I've started to. This letter from Kim is a spark of light for those of you still struggling in the dark.Please believe me when I tell you that IBS can get better. ...2025-05-0301 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS restaurant tip. You're not being difficult...IBS restaurant tip. You're not being difficult...By asking if dishes can be made safer for you.When you’re eating out, don’t be afraid to make special requests.There’s no harm in asking if dishes can be made safer for you. Most of the time, they can!It's usually simple for a restaurant to leave off the cheese, saute or stir fry something with less oil, add extra rice or pasta or a plain baked potato for your soluble fiber foundation, put sauce on the side, etc.You...2025-05-0300 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. Role of histamine in IBS abdominal pain...IBS news flash. Role of histamine in IBS abdominal pain...Histamine is key to gastrointestinal motility, visceral hypersensitivity, and immune system dysregulation.A new review explores the current understanding of IBS pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment, with a focus on the role of histamine in gastrointestinal disorders.Histamine is a chemical messenger your immune system releases. It's involved in allergic reactions, inflammation, and digestion. Histamine also regulates your sleep-wake cycle and cognitive function.And histamine is key to gastrointestinal motility, visceral hypersensitivity, and immune system dysregulation.Learn about histamine’s po...2025-05-0101 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. ‘Gut health’ sodas. Healthy or hype?IBS news flash. ‘Gut health’ sodas. Healthy or hype?Sounds like an oxymoron to me...So-called “gut health” sodas are suddenly everywhere, including new versions by the big boys Coca-Cola and PepsiCo.These soft drinks are marketed as having health benefits and supporting a good gut microbiome. Is this just hype?Lisa Jones, MA, RDN, LDN, FAND, a registered dietitian in Philadelphia, sums up my feelings:"Don't let the bubbles fool you. While some of these sodas contain probiotics or prebiotics, many just slap a trendy label on fizzy water. T...2025-05-0100 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.How to eat enough protein for IBS?How to eat enough protein for IBS?Easily! Skinless chicken breasts, seafood, egg whites, nut butters, quinoa, instant oatmeal, soy milk, nutritional yeast flakes, rice protein powder...Eating for IBS means you need to lower the fat level and pay attention to soluble versus insoluble fiber.But one thing you don’t have to worry about is getting enough protein in your diet. It’s actually hard not to.Pick and choose your protein staples and mix and match as you wish:Skinless chicken or turkey breasts - white meat...2025-05-0101 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.My top five IBS treatmentsMy top five IBS treatmentsThis is the hit list. Might need just one, a combination, or all of them. Give each a fair try and find what works best for you. Here are my top five treatments for preventing and managing all IBS symptoms.You might need just one to get control, you might need a combo, or you might need all of them.And that might also change at different points in your life, because IBS comes and goes. Then comes back again.Give each one a...2025-05-0102 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.No triggers just flavor! For rich creamy tropical sweet lovers this one's for you...No triggers just flavor! For rich creamy tropical sweet lovers this one's for you...Eating for IBS means great food without gut triggers. Try coconut extract!If you’re eating for IBS you need to go low fat (but not fat free), as fat is a huge IBS trigger.But fat carries flavor, and dropping the fat level means you need to heighten the taste.So try an IBS flavor bomb! For rich creamy tropical sweet lovers this one's for you...Coconut ExtractDo you love sweet cr...2025-04-2502 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. 8 red flags you should see your GI doc about...IBS news flash. 8 red flags you should see your GI doc about...Even if you've had IBS for years.Whether you’re struggling to get an initial diagnosis or you’ve had IBS for years, these are 8 red flags to see your GI doc about:1. Rectal bleeding2. Persistent diarrhea3. Intense abdominal pain4. Persistent bloating5. Unintentional weight loss6. Sudden change in bowel habits7. Chronic heartburn8. Swallowing difficultiesAnd more help for IBS…You are not alone.H...2025-04-2400 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Herbs as medicine for IBS? Yep. Ginger is a good one...Herbs as medicine for IBS? Yep. Ginger is a good one...The idea that herbs are nature's medicines really applies to IBS. Ginger root, Zingiber officinale, is one of the best, especially for nausea and cramps.Ginger is helpful for a wide variety of gastrointestinal ailments. Numerous clinical studies have documented that it provides effective relief for morning sickness and post chemotherapy nausea.Ginger root has over a hundred different volatile oils and active phenolic compounds! These also have antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory properties.If you've overeaten at a...2025-04-2300 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. Fascinating link between dental health and bowel habitsIBS news flash. Fascinating link between dental health and bowel habitsI did not see this coming but it does make sense...According to a fascinating new study, both chronic diarrhea and constipation may be linked to oral / dental health. And vice versa.Two fundamental indicators of oral health—teeth condition and oral pain frequency—have recently gained recognition as biomarkers reflecting not just dental integrity but also broader physiological and psychological wellbeing.Emerging evidence suggests a two way street between the gut and oral ecosystems, mediated through microbial translocation, metabolites, and...2025-04-2301 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick tip. Use non-stick or well seasoned pans for all frying...IBS quick tip. Use non-stick or well seasoned pans for all frying...This will reduce your overall fat intake, and that will help keep your gut calm.Use non-stick or well seasoned pans and cooking oil spray for all frying.Or air fry! This will effortlessly lower your overall fat intake. Fat is a huge GI stimulant and IBS trigger.You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have an...2025-04-2100 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick and dirty tip. The smushy rule...IBS quick and dirty tip. The smushy rule...Sounds silly, but it's a fast and easy way to tell soluble vs insoluble fiber foodsFollow the simple smushy rule to tell if a food is a safe soluble fiber, or an insoluble fiber trigger.Picture a banana, cooked white rice, noodles, the flesh of cooked potatoes, applesauce, cream of rice cereal or instant oatmeal, canned pumpkin.All of these foods are smooth and smushy. They will soak into water. You could easily push them through a sieve.That’s a...2025-04-1801 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. Poo-phoria? You should be experiencing it...IBS news flash. Poo-phoria? You should be experiencing it...But the vagus nerve and serotonin levels tie in to IBS...According to gastroenterologists, pooping promotes relaxation via the vagus nerve, releases the feel-good neurotransmitter serotonin, and provides a physical sense of relief.There’s even a term for it - “poo-phoria.”Interestingly, both the vagus nerve and serotonin levels (or uptake) tie in to IBS, in ways that are not well understood.And pain/discomfort with bowel movements is a primary symptom of IBS.So do you experi...2025-04-1700 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. Is your vitamin D level low?IBS news flash. Is your vitamin D level low? Your gut might be paying the price...Bloating, IBS, and IBD could be tied to the sunshine vitamin.Vitamin D modulates your gut microbes. If there's a deficiency, your microbiota can be disrupted, directly impacting your gut health. And IBS.Vitamin D and its receptor pathways actually influence how your gut barrier functions. .Plus more about vitamins and IBS…You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subs...2025-04-1500 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick tip. When you're eating for IBS, size matters...IBS quick tip. When you're eating for IBS, size matters...No matter how safe a food is for IBS, eating a huge portion can trigger attacks. No matter how safe a food is for IBS, eating a huge portion of it in one sitting can trigger an attack. Your gastrocolic reflex reacts (or with IBS over-reacts) in direct correlation to the number of calories or sheer volume you consume in a meal.It's the overreacion of this reflex that sets off the dysfunctional bowel motility of IBS.This makes...2025-04-1401 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.No triggers just flavor! For tart, tangy, lemony lovers...IBS news flash. Sleep apnea linked to IBS...Common sleep disorder could cause or worsen IBS symptomsThere is an interesting link between sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Your body’s autonomic nervous system controls involuntary actions like heart beats and digestion.That system has two divisions: sympathetic and parasympathetic.Your sympathetic system activates the "fight-or-flight" response.Your parasympathetic system promotes "rest-and-digest" functions.Sleep apnea, a very common sleep disorder, results in the acute and sustained activation of the sympathetic ne...2025-04-1201 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. Sleep apnea linked to IBS...IBS news flash. Sleep apnea linked to IBS...Common sleep disorder could cause or worsen IBS symptomsThere is an interesting link between sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Your body’s autonomic nervous system controls involuntary actions like heart beats and digestion.That system has two divisions: sympathetic and parasympathetic.Your sympathetic system activates the "fight-or-flight" response.Your parasympathetic system promotes "rest-and-digest" functions.Sleep apnea, a very common sleep disorder, results in the acute and sustained activation of the sympathetic ne...2025-04-1001 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Herbs as medicine for IBS? Try oregano...Herbs as medicine for IBS? Try oregano...The idea that herbs are nature's medicines really applies to Irritable Bowel Syndrome...The idea that herbs are nature's medicines really applies to IBS.Oregano, Origanum vulgare, contains two volatile oils, thymol and carvacol, that act as anti-spasmodics in the gut.They also increase the production of gastric juices, ease bloating and gas, and relieve menstrual cramps.Oregano has benefits similar to high volatile oil peppermint.Oregano also aids nausea and morning sickness, and has a calming effect as a muscle relaxant...2025-04-0901 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick tip. Use only egg whites, not yolks...IBS quick tip. Use only egg whites, not yolks... Because lowering your fat intake will help keep your gastrocolic reflex calm.When cooking or baking, use only egg whites instead of whole eggs.Egg whites are pure protein. Egg yolks are pure fat.Lowering your fat intake will help keep your gastrocolic reflex calm (gastro what?!).Simply replace each whole egg in a recipe with two egg whites. Egg Beaters are also a good choice - they’re just egg whites with a little natural coloring added.Yo...2025-04-0800 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS rant. It’s not you, it’s them!IBS rant. It’s not you, it’s them! It’s not your IBS questions that are stupid. It's so many of the answers you're given...Have you been made to feel like IBS is somehow your fault? Have your questions and concerns been ignored, diminished, or even thrown back in your face?It’s not you, it’s them!I’ve lost track of how many rude, belittling, and flat-out wrong answers I’ve been given about IBS over the years. And I’ve lost count of how many peop...2025-04-0801 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick tip. Safe protein powder for IBS?IBS quick tip. Safe protein powder for IBS?Yes, and it should have just one ingredient. Rice protein. Trying to get extra protein in your diet by adding a protein powder?There’s really just one super safe option for IBS.Plain rice protein powder. One ingredient. Nothing else added.What about whey? Or casein? No. Dairy proteins can cause all kinds of gut upsets - bloating, gas, cramps.Pea proteins? No. The lectins can cause gas and bloating. And if it’s not extracted and isolated pea...2025-04-0501 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. Weight loss medications..IBS news flash. Weight loss medications.. The new injectables have a lot of GI side effects, and that's not great for IBSNew research is coming out about the risk of gastrointestinal side effects of weight loss injections that are GLP-1 receptor agonists.These are medications such as liraglutide (Saxenda), tirzepatide (Zepbound), and semaglutide ((Wegovy, Ozempic).It’s not great news.Gut upsets are literally the most common side effects of these medications. It’s a long list and it reads exactly like IBS symptoms:abdominal pain2025-04-0401 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS fast fact. IBS is a physical brain-gut dysfunction, which means...IBS fast fact. IBS is a physical brain-gut dysfunction, which means... It's not mental, not emotional, not psychological, and not imaginary. Just look at this brain scan...Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a physical brain-gut dysfunction.That means it is not mental, not emotional, not psychological, and not imaginary.It is a bowel motility disorder that causes lower abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation (or alternating diarrhea/constipation), gas, and bloating.You can literally see the brain-side of this dysfunction in the MRI brain scan below.Look at the IBS...2025-04-0301 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS restaurant tip. Eating with friends?IBS restaurant tip. Eating with friends?Make it clear you need a restaurant where you can actually eat the food.Going out to eat with friends?Make it clear that you need a restaurant where you can actually eat the food. You deserve consideration here.Remember that eating with friends is as much about socializing as it is about food. Real friends will be happy just to be with you.If someone is consistently less than gracious about catering to IBS dietary needs, feel free to drop them from...2025-04-0100 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. See the mechanisms behind IBS and functional constipation pain.IBS news flash. See the mechanisms behind IBS and functional constipation pain.Many pathways with multiple factors add to abdominal pain in chronic constipationA fascinating new research abstract just came out on decoding abdominal pain in constipation-predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome and functional constipation.It’s focused on the mechanisms underlying the pain.In plain English:There are many pathways with multiple factors that add to abdominal pain in chronic constipation.1. Genetics2. Stress3. Diet4. Sex differences and hormones make things worse fo...2025-03-2801 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Herbs as medicine for IBS? Yep. Fennel is top of the list...Herbs as medicine for IBS? Yep. Fennel is top of the list...The idea that herbs are nature's medicines really applies to Irritable Bowel Syndrome...The idea that herbs are nature's medicines really applies to IBS. Top of the list is fennel, Foeniculum vulgare, which is exceptional for IBS bloating, gas, and spasms.Big bonus! It's also really helpful for upper GI issues like heartburn or acid reflux.This makes it the safety net herb for people who cannot tolerate peppermint.Fennel has anti-spasmodic properties, and is a carminative...2025-03-2600 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. It’s not just stress…IBS news flash. It’s not just stress…Common misconception about IBS that it is purely stress-relatedOne of the most common misconceptions about IBS is that it is purely stress-related.While stress can definitely trigger or worsen symptoms, it is not the sole cause.“The gut and brain are deeply connected, which is why emotional stress can impact gut function,” explains Dr Imran Shaikh, Consultant GI and GI Oncosurgeon.“However, we see many cases of IBS in people who lead relatively stress-free lives. That tells us that managing stress alo...2025-03-2600 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick tip. Gluten free does not mean IBS safeIBS quick tip. Gluten free does not mean IBS safeLots of trigger foods have no gluten at all...If you're following a gluten free diet beware that gluten free does NOT mean safe for IBS.Gluten free foods can still have plenty of other IBS diet triggers - fats, insoluble fibers, GI irritants/stimulants such as caffeine, artificial sweeteners, alcohols, carbonation.As an aside, note that gluten is not a FODMAP. Gluten is a protein, FODMAPS are carbohydrates. They are not related.And some gluten free products actually...2025-03-2500 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Alarming news. Alzheimer’s and IBS genetically linked...Alarming news. Alzheimer’s and IBS genetically linked...Certain genes tied to both Alzheimer’s and irritable bowel syndrome, GERD, diverticulosis, peptic ulcer disease, and gastritis-duodenitis.Researchers have found genetic links between Alzheimer's and five gastrointestinal disorders.IBS is one of them.This is really distressing. My own beloved grandmother died from Alzheimer’s.Certain genes are now associated with having both Alzheimer’s and irritable bowel syndrome, GERD, diverticulosis, peptic ulcer disease, and gastritis-duodenitis.The study noted that the findings further support the concept of the brain-gu...2025-03-2201 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick tip. Low FODMAP does not mean IBS safeIBS quick tip. Low FODMAP does not mean IBS safeLots of trigger foods have no FODMAPS at all...If you're following a low FODMAP diet beware that FODMAP free does NOT mean safe for IBS.Low FODMAP foods can still have plenty of other IBS diet triggers - fats, insoluble fibers, GI irritants/stimulants such as caffeine, artificial sweeteners, alcohols, carbonation.Always read labels and ingredients to be sure.Confused?Hang in there, and learn more about following a low FODMAP diet…You are no...2025-03-2100 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. How to tell if bloating and pain are from SIBO or IBS?IBS news flash. How to tell if bloating and pain are from SIBO or IBS? Or both? Is your bloating and pain from Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth or Irritable Bowel Syndrome?Although small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) share many of the same symptoms, SIBO affects the small intestine and IBS affects the large intestine. A recent study examined SIBO and IBS symptoms and common bacteria present in the GI tracts of those patients. Patients within the IBS group reported more about their symptoms than bowel habits. They experienced abdominal pain...2025-03-1901 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Mornings are hard on IBS. Try this...Mornings are hard on IBS. Try this...Prevent, prepare, protect! Mornings are rough on people with IBS, but these three steps can helpI hate mornings. That is the worst time of day for my IBS, and I know I'm not alone here.Why are mornings so awful for so many people? Lots of reasons...When you wake up in the morning, so does your gut.Your stomach is completely empty.You're in a rush to get out the door, and stressed. You're tired because...2025-03-1801 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick tip. After an attack, expand your diet carefully...IBS quick tip. After an attack, expand your diet carefully...Especially when adding insoluble fiber foods. If you're just getting over an IBS attack, be especially careful expanding your diet with insoluble fiber foods.This is where HOW you eat can make a big difference.Break down that insoluble fiber before it’s even in your gut.Try blending fresh fruits into smoothie drinks, or blending cooked veggies into pasta sauces or soups to serve over white rice.You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter ca...2025-03-1700 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS Gotcha! Sugar-free means unsweetened, right?IBS Gotcha! Sugar-free means unsweetened, right?Wrong! Sugar-free means artificial sweeteners have been added...This is one of the most confusing labels out there on foods and drinks.“Sugar-free” does NOT mean unsweetened.It means that instead of real sugar, artificial sweeteners have been added.And virtually all artificial sweeteners are terrible for your gut.In some cases, they cause problems in people who don't even have IBS.Imagine what they can do to you.If you want something that has no sugar or a...2025-03-1300 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS news flash. IBS pain might be treated by targeting touch receptorIBS news flash. IBS pain might be treated by targeting touch receptorA receptor responsible for your sense of touch and temperature could provide a target for treating IBS pain.A provocative study suggests that pain due to gut disorders - like IBS - might be treated by targeting a touch receptor.A receptor that is responsible for our sense of touch and temperature, and which researchers just found present in the colon, could provide a target for treating chronic pain associated with gut disorders - including IBS.Researchers have identified...2025-03-1201 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.It's IBS Awareness Month. About damn time!It's IBS Awareness Month. About damn time!I say the more people hear about IBS the better...This April the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) is launching a social campaign called Raising Awareness About the Real Impact of IBS.April is IBS Awareness Month, meant to shed light on the serious impacts of IBS beyond digestive discomfort.As we all know far too well, while the physical symptoms of IBS are agonizing, IBS can also cause significant mental impacts via the stress, anxiety, and depression that can come along with...2025-03-1201 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Sounds silly but for IBS...Sounds silly but for IBS...When you need to stop an attack in its tracks, use a wide mouth cup for your high volatile oil tea...A high volatile oil medicinal tea, particularly peppermint or fennel, is one of the fastest ways to stop an IBS attack in its tracks.And this sounds silly but if you suddenly need help NOW, you can’t wait, brew that tea in a cup or mug with a wide mouth.Why? Because that allows for a rapid dispersal of the volatile oils in the st...2025-03-0201 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS quick tip. Don't lie down after you eat...Don't lie down right after you eat.Instead, try to be mildly active after meals, even that means just pacing around the house, doing the dishes, or taking an easy walk.Pretty much anything that keeps you upright and moving is better than lying down immobile on a full stomach. Why? Because your entire gut is smooth muscle tissue. Gentle physical activity will work the muscles of the bowels and help get them into a pattern of normal contractions. This is especially helpful right after you eat.With IBS, your gut motility by...2025-02-2701 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.How to survive a colonoscopy with IBS...How to survive a colonoscopy with IBS...Here's how to get through the dreaded colonoscopy prep, procedure, and recovery if you have IBS.And then how to get your gut back on track quickly and calmly!First of all, ask your GI doc about Cologard. This is an at-home test for colon cancer where you take a poo sample and then mail it in. That might be an option instead of the colonoscopy.If it’s not an option, then follow the detailed colonoscopy prep help here.Your doc wi...2025-02-2501 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS restaurant tip. Dairy, especially butter, is hiding everywhere...IBS restaurant tip. Dairy, especially butter, is hiding everywhere... Always ask!Dairy, especially butter, can be hiding everywhere in restaurant meals.The fat, casein, whey, and lactose in dairy are all IBS triggers, so try to avoid completely.Even if you don't see butter, cream, or cheese listed in a menu description, always ask!And get more help with the restaurant guide from Eating for IBS.You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber....2025-02-2300 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Connie finds peace and calm after 15 years of hanging on by a thread...Connie finds peace and calm after 15 years of hanging on by a thread...Connie, a psychologist, wrote to tell me the difference Eating for IBS had made in her life after suffering for 15 years.Read Connie’s Letter here…You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I try...2025-02-1801 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.What a letter! Arlene finds her lifesaver for anxiety related IBS...How do you know if peppermint oil capsules will work their magic for you?I get a lot of questions from folks about this, and whether or not Tummy Tamers are the right fit for their IBS symptoms.And the answer is, it really depends!There are a number of things to consider here, so I put all the details in one helpful video.Find out if Tummy Tamers are the perfect fit for you (or not!)If you can’t see the video here’s the direct link.2025-02-1700 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Dance, march, spin, and puff like magic!Dance, march, spin, and puff like magic!I think Tummy Tamers are pure magic for IBS. We make every single bottle right here at Heather's Tummy Care in Kent, with our own hands. And when we inspect and bottle your Tummy Tamers they dance, march, spin, and puff like magic...Watch the magic happen....You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to...2025-02-1601 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Are Heather's Tummy Tamers peppermint oil capsules the right magic for you?How do you know if peppermint oil capsules will work their magic for you?I get a lot of questions from folks about this, and whether or not Tummy Tamers are the right fit for their IBS symptoms.And the answer is, it really depends!There are a number of things to consider here, so I put all the details in one helpful video.Find out if Tummy Tamers are the perfect fit for you (or not!)If you can’t see the video here’s the direct link.2025-02-1301 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.WGN Radio Chicago Interviews Heather - The Business of Food with Steve AlexanderI just had a terrific conversation with WGN Radio's Steve Alexander in Chicago.Steve asked me all about my IBS story. It's not a pretty one but it has a happy ending. Listen to Part 2 above…Eating isn’t supposed to hurt. But it does for millions of people who suffer from the pain, cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and more, from Irritable Bowel Syndrome. At age nine, Heather Van Vorous was playing in the yard when she doubled over with tummy pain and passed out. Her parents rushed her to the pediatrician, who...2025-02-1102 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.WGN Radio Chicago Interviews Heather - The Business of Food with Steve AlexanderI just had a terrific conversation with WGN Radio's Steve Alexander in Chicago.Steve asked me all about my IBS story. It's not a pretty one but it has a happy ending. Listen to Part 1 above…Eating isn’t supposed to hurt. But it does for millions of people who suffer from the pain, cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and more, from Irritable Bowel Syndrome. At age nine, Heather Van Vorous was playing in the yard when she doubled over with tummy pain and passed out. Her parents rushed her to the pediatrician, who...2025-02-1102 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Watch the magical melt happen...I think Tummy Tamers are pure magic for IBS. And I know it sounds crazy, but I personally make every single peppermint oil capsule at Heather's Tummy Care. I'm not kidding. It takes two whole 12-hour days, back to back, to make the magic happen.Did you know we melt the special enteric gelatin from hard crystals to molten gold? And that you can actually watch that gelatin go from dry and clumpy to pure liquid caramel as it cooks for four hours? It's an amazing transformation, right before your eyes.Watch the magic happen....2025-02-1000 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Eat without fear! IBS deep dive with Heather live.Take a deep dive into the full on, full length, full frontal (just kidding!) pedal to the metal live event that covered anything and everything about eating for IBS. What to eat? How to eat? When to eat? What not to eat? Find out!If you missed the live show dive in here to eat without fear...You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to he...2025-02-081h 13
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.Letters To Heather - How the IBS trigger food list saved Cindy's vacation to Italy!The IBS Trigger Food List saved Cindy's European vacation, and she wrote to tell me so!She was really stressed out about traveling on a tour bus through Italy for two weeks. What if she had a bathroom emergency? (I can definitely relate to this fear.)If you can’t see the video above it’s right here...You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hea...2025-01-3101 min
Heather's IBS Newsletter - Help for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.IBS deep dive with Heather live. Jump in!Take a deep dive into the full on, full length, full frontal (just kidding!) pedal to the metal live event that covered all kinds of Irritable Bowel Syndrome troubles and treatments.If you missed the live show dive in here...You are not alone.Heather's IBS Newsletter can’t continue without your support. Please become a paid subscriber.P.S. If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them - just reply to this email to reach me directly. I am overwhelmed with emails but I tr...2024-12-291h 31