irritable bowel syndrome?

irritable bowel syndrome?
What supplements are commonly recommended for IBS?

Probiotics, fiber (especially soluble), digestive enzymes, peppermint oil, and vitamin D are among the most frequently suggested supplements to relieve IBS symptoms . 

Probiotics restore gut flora balance, reduce bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. Strains like Bifidobacterium infantis, Lactobacillus plantarum, and multi-strain formulas (e.g., VSL#3) have demonstrated efficacy . 

Research highlights B. infantis 35624 for bloating/pain, L. plantarum for IBS-D, and multi-strain formulas (e.g., VSL#3) for improving overall symptoms . 

Yes—soluble fibers like psyllium husk aid bowel regularity and ease IBS-C symptoms. Insoluble fibers may worsen symptoms and should be used cautiously . 

Yes. Enzymes (e.g., amylase, lipase, protease, bromelain, papain) assist food breakdown, reducing gas, bloating, and discomfort . 

Encapsulated peppermint oil is antispasmodic; it eases abdominal pain, bloating, and spasms with good evidence support . 

Many IBS patients have low vitamin D. Supplementation has been shown to improve symptom severity and quality of life in both adults and adolescents . 

Yes—melatonin reduces abdominal pain, improves sleep, and may ease bloating. Doses around 3 mg nightly have shown benefit . 

Magnesium relaxes gut muscles and promotes bowel movements, aiding those with IBS-C. Dosages of 125–500 mg daily are commonly used . 

  • Turmeric (curcumin): Anti-inflammatory but mixed human . 
  • Ginger: Acts as antispasmodic and aids digestion. 
  • Slippery elm: Coats gut lining, reducing irritation . 
  • Quercetin: May help with histamine-related gut reactions. 
  • Bromelain: Supports protein digestion and reduces gut inflammation. 

Yes—aloe acts as a prebiotic, and combined with probiotics (synbiotics), it can improve stool frequency and reduce pain in IBS-C . 

Fish oil has anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce gut inflammation, though it can cause GI side effects like bloating or diarrhea . 

  • Caraway & fennel seeds: Antispasmodic and antigas effects useful for bloating/pain. 
  • Triphala: Laxative qualities may benefit IBS-C but is not suitable for IBS-D

Yes—quercetin offers antihistamine effects in the gut, which may help those with food-triggered IBS

A new amino-acid-electrolyte drink (glucose-free) showed improved stool consistency and pain in IBS-D, but larger trials are needed . 

IBS patients may have imbalanced zinc/copper ratios. Zinc supplements have helped with gut symptoms in some cases . 

  • Activated charcoal: May reduce gas absorption . 
  • Herbs like thyme, ajwain, dill: Used traditionally to ease gas and spasms Reddit. 

Yes—enzyme supplements like lactase (for lactose), alphagalactosidase (for GOS), or xylose isomerase (for fructose) help digestion in IBS . 

Supplements should complement, not replace, core IBS treatments like dietary changes (lowFODMAP), fiber management, stress reduction, exercise, CBT, and medications