Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a mulit-factorial condition, which is characterised by hypersensitivity of the nerve endings in the digestive system (1).

The factors leading to this hypersensitivity are still being researched, but common contributing factors include:
– post infection
– bacterial overgrowth (and SIBO)
– genetic contribution
– psychological stress
– undiagnosed coeliac disease

This hypersensitivity causes an increased sensitivity to food triggers, which vary depending on the individual.

Unlike food allergies, which involve an IgE response from the immune system to instigate an immediate reaction, food sensitivities and intolerances can take up to 3 days to trigger symptoms. Many people also notice that they have varying levels of tolerance of their trigger foods.

The most well-known food trigger is FODMAPs, which is why a low-FODMAP diet is often the first recommendation. FODMAPs are naturally occurring sugars in a wide range of foods that are often absorbed poorly by those with IBS, triggering symptoms.

Although many of those who struggle with IBS still experience flare-ups when following a low-FODMAP diet, indicating that there are other underlying food reactions.

Each individuals food triggers varies widely, but some of the most common triggers we see in our clinics include:

– Sugars (including FODMAPs)

– Gluten

– Dairy

– Salicylates

– Amines

– Food Additives

– Soy

In our clinics we see lots of children and adults struggling with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms, who are frustrated by the lack of medical treatment options.

Many reach out to us as they are sick of going through endless prescriptions for medications and following elimination diets which simply aren’t sustainable long-term.

With Positive Association Technique (PAT) we’re able to offer a natural IBS treatment option, as part of a holistic approach to help reduce the frequency and severity of IBS symptoms and flare-ups.

Positive Association Technique (PAT) is a natural allergy treatment performed by qualified Naturopaths to help alleviate the symptoms associated with allergies, sensitivities and intolerances.

We use a form of muscle testing (kinesiology) to assess your reactions to various food, airborne and chemical substances to help pinpoint your individual triggers.

We then use a chiropractic tool, called an Acustim, to gently stimulate acupressure points and nerve bundles down either side of your spine, while you’re holding a sample vial of the substance (e.g. dairy).

This helps to re-train your body to no longer react negatively to the substance and relieve the associated symptoms.

You can learn more about PAT in our podcast episode – “What is Positive Association Technique (PAT)?”

We work with highly qualified Naturopaths who provide PAT from various clinic locations all over Australia and in Auckland, NZ.

To learn more and see if PAT is right for you, get in touch:

– Call us on 1300 853 023 / 09 479 5997 (NZ) to chat to our friendly staff
– Send us your question
– Get your Free PAT Information E-PACK