At The Confidence Co, we seek to destigmatize the conversation around common gut issues and comfortable symptoms. You may be wondering, what's one of today's biggest gut issue culprits? Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Unfortunately, IBS is the most common gastrointestinal disorder in the Western world, impacting tens of millions of people. Further, of all the people suffering from IBS, up to 70% are women.

Fortunately, April is IBS Awareness Month - an international observance that aims to spread awareness about IBS and encourages those who are suffering to get medical advice and treatment that they need to feel more comfortable and confident. Before we dive into the importance of IBS Awareness Month, let's first level set on what IBS is and who it impacts. 

What is IBS? 

According to WhatHealth, "IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a disorder in which a person experiences chronic, recurrent bowel problems and abdominal pain. Bowel problems may include constipation, diarrhea, pain or a combination of these.

A person with IBS will experience intestinal discomfort on a daily basis. However, the frequency and severity of IBS symptoms are not predictable and can vary. If IBS is not managed, this disorder can be disruptive to all aspects of a persons life. IBS can affect a person physically and emotionally and limit their individual potential in terms of educational attainment and career goals. IBS can also have an impact on relationships." It's challenging to feel your best, and be confidence, when you are chronically suffering with frequent trips to the bathroom and unbearable stomach pains. 

How Common is IBS?

IBS may be more common than you think. WhatHealth shares that according to the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD), it's estimated that between 9-23% of the global population is affected by IBS; over 30 million people in the United States have this condition. IBS is also more common in females accounting for two out of every three cases.

5 Interesting Facts About IBS

1. IBS is the most common gastrointestinal disorder in the US.
2. The disorder is a mystery - the exact causes are unknown. "Symptoms may result from a disturbance in the way the gut, brain, and nervous system interact. This can cause changes in normal bowel movement and sensation."
3. Impacts younger people more than people over the age of 50.
4. IBS is wildly unpredictable - "symptoms vary and are sometimes contradictory. Diarrhea can alternate with constipation. Long-term symptoms can disrupt personal and professional activities, and limit individual potential."
5. There is still no cure for IBS. However, there are treatments and supplements you can take to quell symptoms - like Confidence (more about that below). 

Why IBS Awareness Matters

If you have ever struggled with IBS, you may relate to feeling shameful about your experiences. The symptoms of IBS - constipation, abdominal pain, diarrhea - are not only painful to physically experience but they are uncomfortable topics to bring up. Many people with IBS still struggle in silence. And since there is no "catch all" cure, many find coping with IBS to be challenging, frustrating, and overwhelming. 

That's why IBS awareness is so important. The more we bring IBS to the forefront of the conversation, the more we can help those who are affected by the disorder. Join us in April to get informed, spread awareness, and destigmatize this common gut condition.  

What YOU Can Do This April to Observe

1. Practice yoga. We put together a list of our favorite yoga postures that help you feel confident, even with IBS. Check them out here. 
2. Eat more home-cooked meals. When you eat out at restaurants, you have less control over the ingredients they use to cook. Try out fun new recipes to spice things up.
3. Get daily movement. Find a workout or accountability buddy to help you stay committed to some daily exercise such as walking, dancing, or biking.
4. Drink plenty of water. Purchase or use a reusable water bottle that can travel with you wherever you go. Hydration is key to optimal digestion, and water helps to soften your stools. 
5. Spread the word about IBS. Share your experiences - struggles and triumphs - on social media, inform your family and friends about what IBS is, or tell us your gut health story by filling out this form. 

How Confidence Can Help

While there is no “cure” for IBS given the broad array or isolated issues that come with each individual’s diagnosis, which often is never addressed by medical professionals, there are solutions to help ease the occurrences at which flare ups happen and reset your gut microbiome.

At Confidence, we seek to give the power and control back to YOU. Our digestive enzyme complex is designed to help you avoid bloating, stomach pains, indigestion, constipation, and uncomfortable, awkward gas.

These mighty little capsules are 100% all-natural with no synthetic fillers, no artificial sweeteners, non-GMO, 100% vegan, gluten-free, and 3rd party tested. Try Confidence to feel better and gain more control. Shop here.