Mary Franz - Mar 24th, 2011
For those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation can become a daily occurrence that limits their quality of life. Worst of all, there are few conventional treatment options, in part because the exact cause of IBS is difficult to determine.
In a recent study, pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels were evaluated in children with irritable bowel syndrome. The study consisted of 35 children with IBS and a control group of 25 children without IBS and who were otherwise healthy. Within the IBS group, 7 suffered mainly from constipation, 17 from diarrhea and 11 had mixed bouts of constipation and diarrhea.
They all completed a questionnaire that indicated duration and intensity of their IBS symptoms as well as associated academic and social influences. Cytokine production was measured in the participants isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells after being cultured with and without 1 or 5 ng/mL E. coli LPS (lipopolysaccharride).
Interleukin levels were lower at baseline in the IBS children versus the healthy children. The levels were significantly lower after E. coli was introduced compared to the healthy children. For those with stronger pain levels, these numbers were even lower. The study indicates that there may be a link between a compromised immune system and IBS in children, specifically in their inflammatory response.
Chiropractic care for IBS is a viable alternative or complimentary adjunct to conventional care for both children and adults. Restoring and optimizing nervous system health through spinal manipulation may aid in improving all bodily systems. Chiropractic treatment may also include advice on nutrition and supplements that can help manage not only the symptoms of IBS but the causes behind the condition.
Hua, MC, Lai MW, Kuo ML, Yao TC, Huang JL, Chen SM. Decreased interleukin-10 secretion by peripheral blood mononuclear cells in children with irritable bowel syndrome. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. 2011 Apr; 52(4):376-81.
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