Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG

How IBS Affects Your Gut Health

A Friendly Houston Guide

Welcome to Gastrodoxs! We share simple, helpful tips about gut health for Houston and beyond. Today, let’s talk about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We’ll explain how IBS affects your digestion, gut function, and daily life. Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a top gastroenterologist at Houston Digestive Clinic, shares expert advice throughout. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

1. What Is IBS?
2. Common IBS Symptoms
3. How IBS Changes Digestion
4. IBS and Your Gut Microbiome
5. IBS vs. Other Gut Problems
6. Managing IBS for Better Gut Health
7. Diet Tips for IBS
8. Houston Resources
9. Wrap-Up

1. What Is IBS?

IBS means irritable bowel syndrome. It is a long-lasting gut disorder that changes how your bowels move and feel. But IBS does not cause damage or inflammation inside your intestines.

Dr. Pothuri says, “IBS is not just stomach pain. It’s about how your gut nerves and muscles communicate with your brain.”

• About 10–15% of people worldwide have IBS.
• Triggers include stress, some foods, and hormones.
• It often starts in teens to mid-40s.

2. Common IBS Symptoms

• Stomach pain or cramps
• Bloating and gas
• Diarrhea (IBS-D) or constipation (IBS-C)
• Both diarrhea and constipation (IBS-M)
• Mucus in stool
• Feeling like you didn’t finish going

Dr. Pothuri suggests keeping a simple diary. This helps spot your personal symptom patterns.

3. How IBS Changes Digestion

• It can speed up or slow down how food moves through your gut.
• It can make your gut more sensitive to pain and bloating.
• It can disrupt muscle movements, causing diarrhea or constipation.
• These changes may affect how your body absorbs water and nutrients, causing tiredness or headaches, even if you eat well.

Tracking your food, stress, and symptoms helps you learn what makes your gut feel better.

4. IBS and Your Gut Microbiome

Your gut holds trillions of helpful bacteria. In IBS, this balance can shift. Some bacteria may increase or decrease, making symptoms worse.

• Increase gas and bloating
• Trigger immune reactions
• Affect nutrient absorption

Dr. Pothuri says, “A healthy microbiome soothes your gut and eases IBS.” Probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber can help restore good bacteria.

5. IBS vs. Other Gut Problems

Here’s a quick look at how IBS differs from other gut diseases:

Key point: IBS causes discomfort but no damage. IBD causes gut inflammation and damage.

6. Managing IBS for Better Gut Health

• Manage stress with yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
• Exercise regularly, like daily walks.
• Get 7–8 hours of sleep each night.
• Keep a symptom diary to track triggers.
• See a gastroenterologist or dietitian for support.

Dr. Pothuri reminds us, “Small, steady habits help manage IBS best.”

7. Diet Tips for IBS

Food matters. Here’s how to eat for better IBS management:

Low FODMAP Diet

• Avoid certain carbs found in onion, garlic, wheat, beans, and some fruits.
• Reintroduce foods slowly to find your triggers.

Fiber

• Soluble fiber (like oats, bananas, carrots) helps with diarrhea and constipation.
• Add fiber slowly to avoid gas.

Probiotics & Fermented Foods

• Try yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
• Start small and watch your body’s reaction.

Stay Hydrated

• Drink water throughout the day.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol if they bother you.

Balanced Meals

• Include lean proteins, healthy fats, and colorful vegetables.
• Eat mindfully — chew well and take your time.

Dr. Pothuri says, “No one diet fits all. Use these tips to find what works for you.”

8. Houston Resources

• Houston Digestive Clinic – Dr. Bharat Pothuri’s practice with 24/7 patient portal.
• Rice University IBS Support Group – Monthly meetups.
• Memorial Hermann Nutrition Services – FODMAP education and cooking demos.
• HOPE Clinic – Affordable GI screening and telehealth.
• Gastrodoxs works with these local experts to help you.

9. Wrap-Up

IBS doesn’t have to control your life. By understanding IBS and watching symptoms, you can manage discomfort and enjoy your meals again. Track your symptoms, get help from trusted pros like Dr. Pothuri in Houston, and build healthy habits to support your gut.

We hope this guide helps you face IBS confidently in Houston. Here’s to a happier, healthier gut!

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.