Is intermittent fasting worsening your IBS symptoms?
Intermittent fasting (IF) has become popular in recent years for its potential to help with weight management, metabolic health, and digestive wellness. Although many people experience great benefits from following an intermittent fasting schedule, it is crucial to remember that fasting can present differently for individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder with presenting symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, a change in bowel habits, and heightened gut sensitivity.
There are various forms of intermittent fasting,
• The 5-2 plan, where people eat substantially lower calories on two non-consecutive days and have normal food on the remaining five days
• The 24-hour fasting method, in which nothing is eaten for a full day
• The trendy 16 - 8 diet, where eating is limited to an 8-hour period and fasting for the other 16 hours of the day
Though each has its own rhythm and structure, not all are ideal for those living with IBS symptoms.
In certain individuals, the Intermittent fasting may also be helpful. Dietary habits could be beneficial in that it introduces diversity in gut microbiome as well as increasing the population of beneficial gut microorganisms. Intensified gut flora may boost digestion and decrease inflammation, that could relax IBS symptoms. Fasting can also reduce the processes of the normal digestive tract, like gut motility.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
3 & 4 BHK starting from ₹4.15Cr* in Wadala East
Ajmera Realty
Book Now
Undo
When people skip breakfast, when regular bowel motions are typically operating at their best, this decrease in the process cause interfere with colonic reflexes. This interference may result in bloating, constipation, incomplete feces, and an overall feeling of gastrointestinal discomfort. When trying long-term fasting diets, many IBS sufferers complain of further indigestion, constipation, and even nausea. Since irritation upon fasting is prevalent, these side effects not only worsen the physical distress but also affect mood and mental acuity. Intermittent fasting is not a blanket solution for individuals with IBS, although it may be effective for some. To find out what will work best for everyone without negatively affecting gut health or overall health, individualized diet plans and professional consultation are the key.
(Dr Gyanranjan Rout-Consultant - Medical Gastroenterologist, Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar)
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
11 minutes ago
- Time of India
Can quinoa fix fatty liver? 7 delicious ways to include quinoa in your daily diet
Fatty liver disease, particularly Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), is a growing health concern, affecting an estimated 30.2% of the world's population. Prevalence varies by region, with rates above 40% in the Americas and Southeast Asia. What exactly is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)? Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver, not caused by heavy alcohol consumption. It's often linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. NAFLD encompasses a spectrum of conditions, from simple fat buildup (NAFL) to more serious inflammation and scarring (NASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis, or may even lead to liver cancer. In fact, according to the World Gastroenterology Organisation, NAFLD is now the leading cause of chronic liver disease in Western nations. The hopeful bit? NAFLD is highly reversible through diet and lifestyle changes, and that's where quinoa comes in. With NAFLD on the rise globally due to poor diets and sedentary lifestyles, nutritionists and doctors are increasingly turning to whole foods like quinoa as a dietary solution. Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and complete protein, this 'super grain' has been shown to improve liver markers, reduce fat buildup, and support metabolic health. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas Prices In Dubai Might Be More Affordable Than You Think Villas In Dubai | Search Ads Get Quote Undo But can it actually fix fatty liver? What is quinoa? Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is technically a seed, but it's cooked and eaten like a grain. It is a gluten-free pseudocereal originally cultivated in the Andes of South America. Unlike most plant foods, it's a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It also packs: 5g of fiber per cooked cup High magnesium, folate, and iron content Low glycemic index Anti-inflammatory phytonutrients These properties make quinoa a nutritional powerhouse for anyone aiming to improve liver health and metabolic function. Can quinoa help reverse fatty liver? A number of studies support the potential liver-protective benefits of quinoa: Reduces hepatic lipid accumulation: A study found that rats fed quinoa protein isolates had significantly reduced liver fat content and improved lipid metabolism markers. Researchers believe quinoa's bioactive peptides may directly regulate genes involved in fat oxidation and storage. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects: Chronic inflammation is a key contributor to NAFLD progression. Quinoa is rich in antioxidants like quercetin and kaempferol, which reduce oxidative stress in liver cells. Improves insulin sensitivity: Insulin resistance is both a cause and a consequence of fatty liver. Quinoa's complex carbs, fiber, and protein help stabilize blood sugar levels, supporting better glucose metabolism and fat distribution. Supports Weight management: Quinoa is both filling and nutrient-dense, helping you feel satisfied with fewer calories, ideal for those trying to lose weight to reverse NAFLD. Promotes fat metabolism: Certain amino acids and saponins in quinoa help regulate genes involved in lipid oxidation, encouraging the liver to burn fat rather than store it. 7 delicious ways to include quinoa in your daily diet Whether you're new to quinoa or looking for fresh inspiration, these tasty, nutrient-dense recipes can make healthy eating feel indulgent. Breakfast quinoa porridge: Cook quinoa with unsweetened almond milk, cinnamon, and chopped apples. Top with walnuts and a drizzle of honey. A protein-rich alternative to oatmeal. Mediterranean quinoa bowl: Combine quinoa with cherry tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, chickpeas, and a lemon-olive oil dressing. Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein. Stuffed quinoa bell peppers: Sauté onions, garlic, and spinach, mix with cooked quinoa, and stuff into halved bell peppers. Bake and top with a sprinkle of low-fat cheese. Quinoa and lentil soup: Simmer quinoa and lentils with carrots, celery, turmeric, and black pepper. This fiber-rich soup supports digestion and detox. Zucchini quinoa fritters: Grate zucchini, mix with quinoa, egg, and herbs, and pan-fry until golden. Serve with Greek yogurt dip for a satisfying snack or side. Quinoa patties or burgers: Combine quinoa with grated carrots, eggs, and breadcrumbs to form patties. Pan-fry in olive oil for a crispy, liver-friendly burger alternative. Quinoa sushi rolls: Use quinoa instead of white rice in homemade sushi. Wrap with nori sheets, avocado, cucumber, and smoked salmon for a fun, nutritious twist. How much quinoa should you eat? No matter how nutritional a food is, consuming it in moderation is always the key. For therapeutic benefits, most experts recommend incorporating ½ to 1 cup of cooked quinoa daily as part of a balanced, plant-forward diet. It's best to pair it with lean proteins (tofu, fish, chicken), healthy fats (like avocado or olive oil), and plenty of vegetables. It is also important to note that while quinoa is a powerful liver-supporting food, it should be part of a larger lifestyle strategy that includes reducing processed sugar and saturated fats, losing excess body weight (if needed), engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress and sleep quality in order for optimal liver health. Remember, quinoa is a nutritious ally, but it won't fix fatty liver overnight. Its combination of fiber, complete protein, and micronutrients helps address several root causes of NAFLD. As a consistent, whole-food staple, it can help your liver heal, function better, and thrive over time. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While quinoa may support liver health as part of a balanced diet, it is not a cure for fatty liver disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, especially if you have been diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or any other medical condition. 7 Ways to check for fatty liver at home
Time of India
22 minutes ago
- Time of India
Blame your parents for how food smells to you, your genes play a major role
If you've ever wrinkled your nose at the scent of coriander or found the smell of coffee strangely unappealing, science has a surprising answer, your DNA may be to blame. A groundbreaking genetic study has revealed that how we perceive, and emotionally react to, everyday smells isn't just a matter of taste or memory. Among the most compelling findings is a link to the OR6A2 gene , which influences how people perceive aldehydes, compounds found in coriander. People with a specific variant of this gene often describe the herb as having a soapy or foul taste, an aversion more common among people of East Asian and European ancestry. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category Technology Data Analytics Digital Marketing Public Policy Others Management MCA Artificial Intelligence others Project Management Data Science PGDM Healthcare CXO Operations Management healthcare Degree Design Thinking MBA Data Science Cybersecurity Leadership Product Management Skills you'll gain: Duration: 12 Weeks MIT xPRO CERT-MIT XPRO Building AI Prod India Starts on undefined Get Details Researchers from Leipzig University in Germany have uncovered key genetic differences that help explain why certain smells, and the foods associated with them, trigger completely opposite reactions in different people. The study, published in PLOS Biology , is the largest genetic investigation ever conducted on human olfaction, analyzing how over 21,000 people of European descent perceive 12 everyday smells. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Play this game for 3 minutes, if you own a mouse Undo What they found was surprising, ten distinct regions of DNA, seven previously unknown, influence how we experience specific odors like clove, cinnamon, peppermint, orange, and fish. Some of these regions had sex-specific effects, offering insights into why men and women may perceive scents differently, particularly during hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menstruation. Another striking example is the OR10G4 gene, which shapes how people react to guaiacol, the compound that gives wood smoke its distinctive scent. While some described it as nostalgic and cozy, others compared it to burning rubber. These emotional reactions came down to slight differences in just a few olfactory receptor genes. Live Events But this isn't just about coriander or candles. The study uncovered a significant link between smell sensitivity and Alzheimer's disease risk, indicating that smell testing could help detect early neurological decline. Loss of smell has already been observed in conditions like Parkinson's, COVID-19, and dementia. The findings also open up commercial possibilities. With scent personalization now a growing trend, companies may soon use genetic testing to tailor perfumes, household cleaners, or even skincare products to suit an individual's olfactory DNA. So next time someone turns up their nose at your favorite scent, don't take it personally, it might just be genetic.
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
In a rare reversal, US NIH reinstates 891 cancelled grants, leaving research teams in disarray
US NIH reinstates 891 cancelled research grants after court ruling. (AI Image) In a major reversal, the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) has reinstated 891 biomedical research grants that had previously been cancelled. The move follows a federal court order issued by a judge in Boston, prompting the agency to restore funding to projects that had faced abrupt termination. The grants were initially suspended earlier in the year, affecting hundreds of researchers across the country. Many of these scientists had already enrolled participants, hired staff, or committed resources to long-term studies. The sudden reinstatement, while restoring financial support, has introduced new operational challenges for research teams. Researchers face staffing and operational hurdles One such researcher, Ethan Moitra of Brown University, was among the first to learn that his grant had been cancelled in early February. His study focused on how the Covid-19 pandemic impacted depression and anxiety levels, particularly within LGBTQ+ populations. At the time of cancellation, he had enrolled 240 participants. Although the grant was reinstated in the current month, the short timeline and loss of staffing have made it difficult to resume the study. Moitra noted that only five weeks of funding remain, and that the original team had since disbanded. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Lara Green Is Retiring - Her Final Jewelry Pieces Are 80% Off The Heritage Journal Read More Undo Across the country, similar situations have unfolded. Scientists affected by the initial cancellations had been forced to lay off staff, retract job offers, and pause or completely halt research activities. While the reinstatement has brought a temporary reprieve, many projects are struggling to regain momentum due to administrative and staffing breakdowns. Court order prompts NIH to act The reinstatement of the grants came after a court ruling in Boston, which ordered the NIH to reverse its prior decisions. The ruling affected 891 biomedical research grants, all of which are now back in effect. The NIH has not provided a full statement on the reason for the initial cancellations or the court's findings. Lingering effects on US research infrastructure Although the funding has been restored, the long-term impact on US research programmes remains uncertain. The disruption caused by the grant cancellations has affected ongoing data collection, team structures, and project timelines. Many researchers are now facing compressed schedules, with some left with only a few weeks of funding to complete their studies. The reinstated grants cover a wide range of biomedical topics and were part of ongoing federal research initiatives. The temporary loss of these projects has contributed to wider operational challenges within the US scientific community. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
