The Functional Medicine Approach to Healing IBS: Addressing the Root Causes

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is one of the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal conditions, yet many patients are left with more questions than answers. Characterized by symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, or a mix of both, IBS is often considered a "diagnosis of exclusion" in conventional medicine.

In Functional Medicine, we see IBS not as a final diagnosis, but as a symptom of underlying imbalance. Our goal is to uncover the root causes of IBS that drive these symptoms and create a personalized roadmap for healing the gut, calming the immune system, and restoring microbial harmony.

Common Root Causes of IBS in Functional Medicine

1. Gut Dysbiosis and SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)

Imbalances in gut flora, especially overgrowth in the small intestine, can ferment carbohydrates and produce gas, leading to bloating, pain, and altered bowel habits. Testing for SIBO via breath tests or stool analysis is often key.

2. Food Sensitivities and Intolerances

Common triggers include gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, and fermentable fibers (FODMAPs). These foods may provoke immune reactions or exacerbate dysbiosis. Short-term elimination diets followed by strategic reintroduction can help identify offenders.

3. Leaky Gut (Intestinal Hyperpermeability)

When the gut lining is compromised, food particles and endotoxins enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and systemic symptoms. Zonulin, SIgA, and anti-LPS antibodies are often tested to evaluate gut barrier function.

4. Stress and Nervous System Imbalance

Chronic stress alters gut motility, increases intestinal permeability, and shifts the microbiome. Addressing vagal tone, using breath-work, HRV training, or limbic system retraining is essential.

5. Infections or Post-Infectious IBS

History of food poisoning or traveler's diarrhea may lead to persistent gut dysregulation. Testing for parasites, H. pylori, or post-infectious autoimmunity (e.g., anti-vinculin antibodies) is often warranted.

6. Hormonal Imbalances

Fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones (especially in women) can impact bowel motility and sensitivity.

Functional Medicine Testing for IBS

• GI-MAP or other comprehensive stool analysis

• SIBO breath test (lactulose or glucose)

• Food sensitivity panels (IgG/IgA)

• Organic Acids Test (OAT) for yeast, oxalates, neurotransmitters

• DUTCH hormone testing

• Anti-vinculin and anti-CdtB (for post-infectious IBS)

  
  

Functional Medicine Healing Phases for IBS

1. Stabilization

• Low FODMAP or low-histamine diet (short-term)

• Anti-inflammatory support: curcumin, omega-3s, glutamine

• Nervous system calming: vagus nerve exercises, adaptogens

  
  

2. Eradication & Rebalancing

• Herbal antimicrobials for SIBO/SIFO (berberine, oregano, neem)

• Pro-kinetics if motility is impaired

• Gut-specific binders (charcoal, bentonite) for toxin clearance

  
  

3. Repair & Restore

• Gut lining support: glutamine, zinc carnosine, aloe vera

• Microbiome repletion: Lactobacillus, Bifido, and soil-based probiotics

• Prebiotics and polyphenols once tolerated (acacia fiber, pomegranate husk)

  
  

4. Maintenance

• Reintroduction of diverse foods

• Continued stress regulation

• Regular movement, breath-work, and community engagement

  
  

Final Thoughts

IBS is not a one-size-fits-all condition, and there is no single supplement or diet that resolves it for everyone. The Functional Medicine approach recognizes that each person’s gut story is unique. By identifying and addressing the true root causes — whether microbial, immune, hormonal, or emotional — we can restore long-term gut health and overall vitality.

If you're ready to start your personalized IBS healing journey, book a functional medicine consult with Xenia at Your Functional Health in Austin. Also serving Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and the entire State of Texas.

Your Functional Med NP,

Xenia