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2. Stress and Anxiety
There is a well-documented link between stress and anxiety and IBS development and symptom aggravation. Studies have found that chronic stress experienced early in life (before the age of 18) makes one more likely to develop IBS later on in life.
Additionally, many IBS sufferers find that high levels of stress or anxiety do trigger IBS symptoms, particularly diarrhea, constipation, bloating, mucus in the stools and a feeling of incomplete bowel movements. Biofeedback, deep breathing, meditation, psychological counselling, yoga, tai chi and regularly exercise can help you better manage stress and anxiety.
Resources
Stanford Healthcare (The Low FODMAP Diet)Medical Daily: Menstrual Cramps (6 Home Remedies)MedicineNet.com (IBS Triggers and Prevention)National Center for Biotechnology Information (Intervention to increase physical activity in irritable bowel syndrome shows long-term positive effects)
A bacterial infection such as food poisoning or a virus is often the cause of "stomach bug" symptoms, which is medically known as post-infectious IBS.
