Changes in Bowel Habits: Probiotics and Gut Health Insights

Hello, Vice Dean Chen, regarding the question I asked you last time?

After asking the deputy director last time, you believe it should still be irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
However, I wonder if normal variations in stool shape and color could also indicate IBS? Over the past few days, I've noticed some changes in my bowel movements; it seems like the frequency is increasing, with shorter intervals between them.
For example, after having two bowel movements, I feel the urge to go again just a few minutes later, resulting in three more stools, and then after a few more minutes, I feel the need to go again and have two more (the amount seems similar to what I eat).
My rectum then relaxes, and compared to the previous situation where I had to wait about half an hour to an hour, it seems to be concentrating around a single time point.
However, since I've already had a colonoscopy, it seems unlikely to be another issue.
Could it be related to the probiotics I’m taking? After my hemorrhoid issue, my family suggested I try probiotics to see if it could improve my original diarrhea and IBS symptoms.
But I actually think it might be due to my previous late-night habits affecting my gastrointestinal function, leading to diarrhea.
When I initially consulted the doctor, they also mentioned this and advised me to maintain a regular schedule.
Reflecting back, during that time, I was eating almost only one meal a day, typically at night, and would experience stomach pain after eating, followed by diarrhea.
Sometimes, even after finishing my meal, I would have one or two more episodes of diarrhea.
Could it be that even though I’ve adjusted my routine, my intestines are still trying to improve gradually? The probiotics I’m taking are NutraMetrix® Probiotics 10, so could it be that the probiotics are still adapting and improving the gut microbiome, causing my bowel timing to gradually adjust?

Mr. Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/15

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It is determined to be a functional issue, commonly referred to as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Probiotics are still classified as dietary supplements; the principle is to continue taking them as long as they are effective.
My experience using them in patients is limited, so I cannot provide recommendations.

Reply Date: 2022/10/15

More Info

Understanding changes in bowel habits can be complex, as they often reflect a combination of dietary, lifestyle, and psychological factors. Your recent experiences with increased frequency of bowel movements and the nature of your stools suggest that several elements may be at play.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that changes in bowel habits, such as increased frequency, can be influenced by dietary changes. You mentioned that you have been consuming more fruits and vegetables, which are high in fiber. Increased fiber intake can lead to more frequent bowel movements as it adds bulk to the stool and promotes intestinal motility. This is generally a positive change for gut health, as fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. However, if your body is not used to this increase in fiber, it may take some time to adjust, leading to temporary changes in bowel habits.

Additionally, you mentioned the use of probiotics, specifically NutraMetrix® Probiotics 10. Probiotics can play a significant role in gut health by helping to balance the gut microbiome. When introducing probiotics, it is common for some individuals to experience changes in bowel habits as their gut flora adjusts. This adjustment period can sometimes lead to increased gas, bloating, or changes in stool consistency and frequency. If you have recently started taking probiotics, this could indeed be contributing to the changes you are observing.

Your history of experiencing symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is also relevant. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits, which can include diarrhea or constipation. The fact that you have had a colonoscopy that returned normal results is reassuring, as it rules out more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal cancer. However, IBS can still cause significant discomfort and changes in bowel habits, and it is often exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and irregular eating patterns.

You mentioned that your eating habits have changed, particularly that you were eating only one meal a day and often late at night. This kind of irregular eating pattern can disrupt normal digestive processes and lead to symptoms like diarrhea. It is crucial to establish a regular eating schedule that includes balanced meals throughout the day to help regulate your digestive system.

In terms of your bowel movements becoming more concentrated in a shorter time frame, this could be a result of your body adjusting to the increased fiber intake and probiotics, as well as your previous eating habits. It’s not uncommon for individuals with IBS to experience changes in the timing and frequency of bowel movements, especially when dietary and lifestyle changes are made.

To improve your bowel health, consider the following recommendations:
1. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Continue to consume a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Ensure that you are getting enough fiber, but increase it gradually to allow your digestive system to adapt.

2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, as hydration is essential for healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation.

3. Regular Meal Schedule: Aim to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day rather than large meals at irregular times. This can help regulate your digestive system.

4. Monitor Probiotic Use: If you are experiencing discomfort or significant changes in bowel habits after starting probiotics, consider discussing this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting the dosage or trying a different formulation.

5. Manage Stress: Since stress and anxiety can exacerbate IBS symptoms, consider incorporating stress-reducing activities such as exercise, meditation, or yoga into your routine.

6. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to follow up with a healthcare provider. They can provide further evaluation and recommendations tailored to your specific situation.

In conclusion, changes in bowel habits can reflect various factors, including dietary changes, probiotic use, and underlying conditions like IBS. By adopting a balanced diet, maintaining hydration, and managing stress, you can support your gut health and potentially stabilize your bowel habits over time.

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