If your tummy’s not feeling quite right, check your symptoms so you can find a fix
Bloating, stomach cramps and excess wind are clear signs your tummy needs TLC, but the impact of a dodgy gut goes much further. In fact, research shows that there’s a complex connection between our digestive system and overall health, and scientists now know that a happy tum improves wellbeing. Surprisingly, as much as 70% of our immunity is located in the gut and 90% of our ‘feel-good hormone’ serotonin is produced there too. Things not great in the digestion department? Find out what’s going on down there – and more importantly, how to sort it.
Is it... FOOD INTOLERANCE OR ALLERGY?
For some people, certain foods can lead to food-hypersensitivity. ‘These reactions either involve the immune system, which is a “food allergy” or, where it doesn’t, it’s called a “food intolerance”,’ explains nutritionist Emma Williams.
Your symptoms
You get pain or nausea Certain foods are a trigger You’ve had an extreme reaction after eating, such as vomiting and diarrhoea or a rash
How to sort it
✱ FOOD ALLERGY: Immediate reactions usually take place within two hours of eating, with symptoms like itchy rash, swelling, vomiting and diarrhoea. ‘These can lead to serious problems, so seek urgent medical advice,’ says Emma.
✱ FOOD INTOLERANCE: Symptoms such as bloating or tummy pain, often come on several hours after eating. Keep a food diary to help you identify possible foods to avoid.
Is it... IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS)?
‘Signs vary, but typical symptoms include tummy discomfort, bloating or a change in bowel movement for at least six months, often made worse by eating,’ says Emma. Passing mucus, feeling lethargic, experiencing nausea, bladder issues and backache are also indicators of IBS, which can be brought on by stress.
Your symptoms
Wind, gas and bloating is a common occurrence You have loose and frequent poos You get gut issues when you’re stressed
How to sort it
It’s important to have a confirmed diagnosis of IBS to rule out other conditions, such as coeliac or inflammatory bowel disease, so speak to your GP.
✱ BLOATING AND WIND: ‘Limit gas-producing foods, such as beans, pulses, sprouts, or sugar-free mints, and include oats and linseeds in your diet,’ says Emma.
✱ DIARRHOEA: ‘Avoid sugar-free sweets or mints, or drinks containing sweeteners such as xylitol, sorbitol and mannitol,’ says Emma. ‘Limit caffeinated drinks to no more than three per day, and reduce your intake of high-fibre foods.’
