Integrative Approach to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Los Angeles

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can cause frustrating and uncomfortable symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation, significantly impacting daily life for many in Los Angeles. At Body and Mind Pain Center, Dr. Zev Nevo utilizes an integrative, root-cause approach, combining Functional Medicine insights with Mind-Body strategies to address the complex gut-brain connection underlying IBS.

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Understanding IBS:

IBS is considered a disorder of gut-brain interaction. While the exact cause varies, key factors often include:

  • Gut microbiome imbalances (dysbiosis) or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO).
  • Gut motility issues.
  • Visceral hypersensitivity (increased gut sensitivity).
  • Gut lining permeability (“leaky gut”).
  • Food sensitivities or intolerances.
  • Stress and nervous system dysregulation significantly impacting gut function.
  • Overlap with conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, anxiety/depression.

Our Integrative Approach to IBS:

Dr. Nevo provides comprehensive IBS treatment in Los Angeles:

  • Functional Medicine: Core approach – Advanced stool testing, SIBO breath testing, food sensitivity testing to identify underlying gut issues. Personalized protocols using diet (e.g., Low FODMAP guidance), targeted supplements (probiotics, gut healing nutrients), and lifestyle changes.
  • Mind-Body Rehabilitation: Addressing the gut-brain axis – stress reduction techniques, nervous system regulation (HeartMath, SSP, Polyvagal exercises) to calm gut reactivity, potentially PRT if visceral hypersensitivity involves neuroplastic pain components.
  • OMT: Gentle visceral manipulation techniques may be employed to improve gut motility and address related musculoskeletal tension in the abdomen and back.
  • Wellness Clinic Support: Detailed nutritional guidance and stress management coaching.

Patient Empowerment & Goals:

Our goal is to identify your specific IBS triggers, reduce symptoms like pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits, improve gut health and resilience, and empower you with sustainable self-management strategies.

The Body and Mind Pain Center Difference:

Dr. Nevo’s integrative approach combining Functional Medicine gut health expertise with Mind-Body nervous system regulation offers a unique advantage for managing complex IBS symptoms in Los Angeles. Our patient-centered, evidence-based, fiduciary care focuses on root causes for lasting relief, supported by our Wellness Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How is Functional Medicine different for IBS treatment?

Instead of just managing symptoms, Functional Medicine  uses specialized testing (stool, breath, food sensitivity) to investigate why you have IBS symptoms – identifying underlying issues like SIBO, dysbiosis, leaky gut, or inflammation – and then treats those root causes.

What kind of testing do you use for gut health?

Depending on your specific symptoms and history, Dr. Nevo may recommend advanced tests such as comprehensive stool analysis (evaluating bacteria, yeast, digestion, inflammation), Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) breath tests, or food sensitivity/allergy testing available through our Los Angeles clinic.

How does stress affect IBS symptoms?

The gut and brain are constantly communicating (the gut-brain axis). Stress triggers the “fight-or-flight” response, which directly alters gut motility (causing diarrhea or constipation), increases gut sensitivity (making you feel pain/bloating more intensely), and can negatively impact the gut microbiome. Mind-Body techniques help regulate this response.

Can OMT help with digestive issues?

Yes, gentle OMT techniques, specifically visceral manipulation, can potentially improve IBS symptoms for some individuals by addressing restrictions in the fascia supporting the organs, improving organ mobility, and influencing the nerve supply to the gut (autonomic balance).

What dietary changes are typically recommended?

Dietary changes are highly personalized based on testing and individual triggers. Common approaches include a temporary elimination diet to identify sensitivities or a guided trial of the Low FODMAP diet. The long-term goal is always the most diverse, nutrient-dense diet you can tolerate comfortably.

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