There has been a lot said about fecal transplants as a great treatment method for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A lot of people have no idea what we’re talking about. Let’s face it, this isn’t a subject you want to read up on or even discuss with other people. Discussing fecal transplants for IBS with your friends isn’t necessarily pleasant conversation. However, when you do read up on fecal transplants for IBS, you will find that this isn’t a new treatment method. Doctors have been performing this procedure for centuries!
Yes, fecal transplants were first used by Ge Hong, a Chinese physician, in the 4th century to treat gastrointestinal disorders. The doctor advised patients with severe diarrhea to consume fresh poop by mixing it in water and concocting a ‘poop soup’, as an effective treatment.
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Research shows that more than 13% of the population in the world suffers from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which causes irregular bowel movements, bloating, and abdominal pain. Clinical trials have found that fecal transplants are very effective in relieving the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, and can restore a healthy gut microbiome.
When you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, it isn’t a pleasant experience, because the condition disrupts your quality of life. People suffering from IBS will be advised to make changes in their diet to find relief from the symptoms, but that doesn’t do anything to provide relief from the condition. That had been the case until now, where clinical trials have provided great evidence that a fecal transplant is an effective treatment for patients suffering with IBS.
What is a Fecal Transplant?
Don’t worry if you don’t know what a fecal transplant is, and we will save you the trouble from having to Google it. A fecal transplant, also called a fecal microbiota transplant is a procedure that involves collecting stool from healthy people. It is hen thoroughly screened, prepared with glycerol and saline, and then transplanted to the patient through a sterilized capsule, enema, or colonoscopy.
The poop taken from the healthy person, has a large amount of gut microbes. These can help repopulate the healthy bacteria in the gut of the patient suffering from IBS.
Fecal transplants for IBS
A lot of people are still skeptical about fecal transplants for IBS, but recent clinical trials and studies have revealed positive results. Most patients that underwent the procedure managed to find relief from their IBS symptoms. In fact, the overwhelming majority reported improvement in their overall health. There is no denying that fecal transplants are effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome, or providing relief from the symptoms.
However, not everyone is keen on getting stool from another individual inserted into their body. That is why you should discuss your options with your doctor. Only consider it if you feel comfortable. The only thing we will say is that there are no side effects or negative effects associated with fecal transplants for IBS treatment.
