Dietary Supplements for IBS

HUSK – Psyllium seed husk powder with gel-forming properties, which has the ability to normalize stool and make it softer, whether you are constipated or have diarrhoea. Also, a very good supplement for those who eat too little fibre. The green variant is most suitable for those with IBS, and you can find it at the pharmacy.

Magnesium – Comes in many different forms, all affecting the body and intestines differently. Generally, magnesium forms with poorer absorption, such as oxide and citrate, provide more magnesium in the intestines, leading to a laxative effect. Other forms, like malate, glycinate, and lactate, have better absorption and do not have the same effect on the intestines. Studies show that a large part of the population does not get enough magnesium through their diet. 

D-vitamin – Studies show that people with IBS and IBD have lower levels of D-vitamins than others. D-vitamin also seems to play a role in the development of several other diseases, so maintaining a good status is beneficial. We absorb D-vitamins from the sun’s rays, but only during the period of May-August. In between, we need to replenish our supplies through diet or by taking a supplement.

Iron – There are several reasons for low iron levels or iron deficiency. One is reduced absorption, which is common with untreated celiac disease or a damaged intestinal mucosa. The other is due to significant losses, through menstruation or if there are bleeding issues in the intestines, as in IBD (Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis). Studies also show that young women are more likely to suffer from iron deficiency, probably partly because many choose to exclude red meat from their diets.

Omega-3 – Essential fatty acids (DHA and EPA) that we need to provide through food or supplements since the body cannot produce them on its own. The advice is to eat fatty fish three times a week; otherwise, a supplement may be useful. Supplements are available in the form of krill or fish oil, but there are also vegetarian options from algae.

Probiotics – Beneficial bacteria can help balance the gut flora after a stomach illness or antibiotic treatment. During the elimination phase, a temporary reduction in certain bacterial strains has also been observed. To support gut bacteria, it may be a good idea to take a probiotic supplement. However, it can be challenging to evaluate the effect, and we always recommend trying it for at least a month before switching supplements. 

Digestive enzymes – It is not possible to measure whether one has enough digestive enzymes. However, many feel better in their stomachs when taking an enzyme supplement. In particular, protein breakdown can be facilitated for those who find meat heavy. Enzymes are naturally present in sprouts, raw vegetables, fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, and grains, so it’s good to consume plenty of these.

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) – For those who have issues in the upper part of the stomach, such as heartburn, nausea, bloating, and burping, it’s easy to believe that they have too much stomach acid. But it can also be the opposite. If you take acid-suppressing medications and don’t have an effect or don’t want to continue with them, a supplement of hydrochloric acid might be worth trying.