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IBS Symptoms and Causes

Understand the symptoms and underlying causes of IBS and how they can be addressed.

Written by Martin Cohen, Dip CNM, mBANT, mCNHC, Registered Nutritional Therapist.
Reviewed October 2026 · Next review due October 2027.

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Introduction to IBS Symptoms

The primary symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain linked to going to the toilet, usually with bloating and diarrhoea, constipation or both.

A single cause isn’t known and will differ between people. The causes can include food intolerances, stress and infections as well as food poisoning. These can elad to alterations in the gut microbiome and functioning of the bowel.

This pages covers the symptoms of IBS and the risk factors that can trigger the on-set of this condition.

Note: There are specific digestive and gut health symptoms that can be described as red flags. While these symptoms can be present with IBS flare-ups, they may require further investigations from a doctor. These symptoms include rectal bleeding, abdominal masses, unexplained weight loss and sudden changes in bowel habits and patterns.

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The main symptoms of IBS is abdominal (yummy) pain that is assocaited with gooing to the toilet. This is commonly seen with changes in bowel movements. Eg: Constipation, diarrhoea or a mix of the these.

Digestive symptoms can include:

cramping pain
bloating
diarrhoea and urgency (needing to go suddenly)
constipation
feeling like you haven’t fully emptied your bowels
mucus in your poo
wind
nausea

Other symptoms people report include tiredness, headaches, backache, and low mood or anxiety.

It’s common for symptoms to come and go, with or without a clear trigger. Some people have symptoms most days. When symptoms get worse for a while, this is called a flare-up.

How does IBS make you feel?

IBS symptoms can be painful and tiring, and many people with IBS worry about food or being far from a toilet.

You may also have low mood or anxiety. This is partly because of the gut-brain connection, the two-way link between your digestive system and your brain. It isn’t “all in your head”. It’s a real physical link between your gut and how you feel.

From our clinic: Most of our IBS patients tell us about both physical and emotional symptoms. The most common ones we see are changes in bowel habits, pain, bloating, and anxiety or worry.

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What Causes IBS?

There isn't a single cause of IBS - but there are several well understood factors that can cause symptoms to develop or progress. These can differ from person to person and include:

Changes in gut bacteria

Studies regularly report imbalances in the gut microbiome of people with IBS. It is currently unclear whether this is the cause of IBS, or the result of another factor.

Gut-brain connection

The gut and the brain are in constant communication. Stressful life events and anxiety can contribute to changes in how the bowel functions, contributing to both the onset and flare-ups in IBS symptoms.

A sensitive gut

Visceral hypersensitivity is where the nerves along the gut lining become sensitive. This can lead to increased pain perception, making even a small amount of gas in the bowel feel very painful.

Infections and food poisoning

IBS can start following a case of gastroenteritis, travellers’ diarrhoea or food poisoning, referred to as post-infectious IBS. A 2007 meta-analysis found that the odds of developing IBS were about six times higher after acute gastrointestinal infection. (Thabane, 2007).

Food

For some, a range of foods may trigger symptoms. The most common foods contain FODMAPs which are fermentable carbohydrates that in some, can lead to gas and bloating soon after eating. This is often due to changes in the gut microbiome, and is not considered an allergy.

SIBO

SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) is found in some people with IBS. This can be a common cause of IBS symptoms and can be approached in various ways to address the bacterial imbalance.

Other things that can play a part

Certain medications, long-periods of stress, bile acid issues and poor sleep may all contribute to IBS development and progression.

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What triggers an IBS flare-up?

Common triggers for a flare-up inlcude certain foods (eg fried or spicy), stress, poor sleep, infecetion as well as some medications.

dietary
infections
psychological
caffeine
alcohol
large or irregular meals
hormonal changes
gut bacteria
antibiotics

Click here for more information on the role diet and food plays in IBS.

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   Emily Stevenson 
 August 6, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can’t recommend Martin highly enough! From our very first session, his calm, kind, and approachable manner made me feel completely at ease. He is extremely knowledgeable and efficient, and he takes the time to genuinely help you understand your gut health so you feel informed every step of the way.

We had three appointments in total. By the end of our first session, he gave me a clear list of supplements to order, and I noticed a positive difference within the very first week! Now that we’ve completed all three sessions, I am slowly and safely coming off my tablets and enjoying a much happier gut. If you are looking for dedicated, expert support for your health, I couldn't recommend him more.
  
 
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   Erma Ellinas 
 May 23, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Couldn’t recommend Martin enough , I’ve been suffering with constipation for years and tried so many different supplements and remedies but nothing really worked and was sick of always going back to some kind of laxative. It was a journey cutting out food groups then reintroducing them to see what works but I’ve also been educated quite a lot which is great . Definitely worth doing .
  
 
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   Gemma Richardson 
 May 18, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot thank The IBS & Gut Health Clinic enough. From the first meeting with Martin I felt reassured. He took the time to explain the gut to me, and has laid a solid foundation to promote my gut health. This is the first time in years that I feel normal, and comfortable about food choices. I could not recommend Martin enough, he is fabulous!
  
 
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   Jane V 
 May 7, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My son was experiencing painful IBS symptoms and missing a lot of school over many months. Gp's gave medication but not the cause.  Martin conducted an assessment and advised on a range of specialist suppliments and diet adjustments to alleviate symptoms and get rid of the IBS. We found the process very helpful, easy to follow and very much worth it. Since working with Martin, my son has not missed any school and feels so much better- would certiainly recommend Martin and the IBS & Gut Health Clinic.
  
 
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   Gareth Prosser He / Him 
 March 25, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I really appreciated Martins gentle yet thorough approach in helping to restore balance in my gut. The consultation was thoughtful and very detailed, this made me feel reassured and confident regarding his recommendations to address the symptoms. All of Martins suggestions including exercises, herbal teas and supplements has good results and over the course of the treatment my symptoms have settled hugely. This approach has given me a renewed understanding of what can work and how to approach future issues naturally. Thank you very much!!
  
 
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   Yvonne Harley 
 January 28, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can’t praise martins professionalism and care enough he helped me through my PI IBS I always felt he listened and treated me    with thought and care I am now feeling so much better and know he will always be a person to go too if needed.
  
 
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   K S 
 December 16, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The IBS & Gut Health Clinic, and Martin in particular, have been incredible. Over the last few months he has helped me to overcome one of the biggest challenges that has haunted me throughout the majority of my life! Gut health has always been a major issue for me, creating difficulty in my work life, social life and general confidence and comfort.

I have spoken to several doctors over the years about my stomach pains, reactions to certain foods, bloated stomach as well as the endless hours in the bathroom and it’s always been passed off with a completely irrelevant diagnosis. After my first session with Martin, he was confident that he knew the issue and solution - which he then proved.

I am now 90% better than I was in such a short timeframe and Martin is still by my side and giving me guidance to push that little bit further. I can’t recommend him enough. I cannot put a price on the way I feel now compared to three months earlier! He focused not only on my food intake but my lifestyle, stress levels and much more.

I’m now in a much better place and I’m focused on taking my health to the next level. I’m very thankful to the IBS & Gut Health Clinic and hope many more can feel the same way I am.
  
 
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   Claire Mcnulty 
 December 1, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have suffered all my life with gut issues. These were worsened by other events in my life. I have always suffered from constipation, as well as bloating and gas, which I believed contributed to my hormonal issues and fatigue. I’ve spent a fortune on different things that claim would help but never have. After 3 sessions with Martin I am now going to the toilet at least once a day. This is absolutely huge for me as I could regularly go more than a week prior to this. I have more energy and my hormones are more balanced. I can’t thank him enough.
  
 
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   France Sidebottom 
 September 24, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After years of suffering from gut issues , I was diagnosed with SIBO and referred to Martin Cohen. I couldn’t have hoped to find a kinder, more thoughtful and caring practitioner. Thanks to his support, advice and supplementation, I have turned my life around these last eight months and feel well and stable. Along the way, I have discovered so much about myself, what the various triggers can be and how to manage those successfully. I now understand that there are more than physical explanations to gut issues. Martin also encouraged me to undertake gut hypnotherapy with overwhelmingly positive results. I no longer fear food.  Now I look forward to going out to friends/restaurants, something I had not done in years without a great deal of restrictions and anxiety. I really cannot recommend the IBS Gut Clinic and Martin Cohen highly enough, I have made more progress than I ever hoped for with him!
With my grateful thanks,
France Sidebottom
  
 
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   Zoe Easters 
 September 5, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't thank and recommend Martin enough, he has quite literally changed my life if I could give more stars I would!

Bit of a back story, I have struggled with gut health for the past 12/13 years and it got progressively worse with more doctors visits than I can count, to be told it was just IBS and to keep a food diary and often times being told it was all in my head.

I finally got an endoscopy referral after many years of refusals even though I had daily extreme bloating, pain, bowel movement problems, chronic reflux which was pooling in to my throat, i'd even been to A&E multiple times for very aggressive chest pains over the past couple of years! The endoscopy I finally got showed I had multiple ulcers, stomach erosion, gastritis and a small hiatal hernia but unfortunately all they could do was keep me on proton pump inhibitors which I had been on long term already.

Feeling extremely lost, anxiety through the roof and not even being able to sit down most nights after my evening meal without being in significant pain and tears at lot of the time, I came across Martin a few weeks later and booked on to his free 15 minute call. From just speaking to Martin I could see how knowledgable he was and for the first time in 12 years someone actually listened and cared!

I booked in with Martin there and then and it was the best decision I made, the initial assessment was very thorough and everything we spoke about made total sense, Martin even went over some of the more technical/science stuff with me that I was super interested in.

I have been working with Martin for just over 4 months and when I say it has been life changing, I feel like i'm completely back in control. My extreme bloating is gone along with the pain including the chest and sternum pain and has been for a little while now, my reflux is now 99% under control too and I have a natural supplement while things continue to heal with that if I do need to use occasionally. I now have regular bowel habits and have managed to successfully introduce all food groups back in to my diet and I have no anxiety about any of them giving me symptoms, which is something I could only have dreamed of a few months back. I can finally enjoy a meal out with my husband and friends again and not be riddled with anxiety with every mouthful because I know I will be in agony later!

Martin is very calm, a great listener and instantly puts you at ease, as said above he is super knowledgeable and well the results speak for themselves!

I can't thank Martin enough for giving me my life back, I never thought in a million years 4 months ago that I would be in the place that I am now physically and mentally!

My mentality around food and a healthy gut has changed significantly, I absolutely love cooking now and understand that it's not just about the food but stress and our environment how we eat etc is also a big factor, I truly believe this has helped me be a calmer person and has had a significant impact on my mental health and anxiety too aswell as my gut!

If you are thinking about reaching out to Martin for support then definitely do the support he has given me is invaluable!

Thanks so much again Martin and all the best for the future, I know who I'll be contacting if I or any of my loved ones ever need gut support in the future!
  
 
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   Amber Barnett 
 August 28, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve struggled with severe gut issues since I had a bad infection 10 years ago. I’ve tried going to gastroenterologists (private and on the NHS), numerous different diets and copious amounts of herbal supplements, none of them helping my symptoms. Since working with Martin, my symptoms have almost disappeared and I’ve been able to eat/tolerate so many more different foods than previously. Martin really listened to my full 10 years of symptoms and issues and was able to give me a reason for them and also provide supplements recommendations to heal my gut. I’m really grateful for Martin’s help and would recommend him to anyone that feels they’re struggling with gut issues and wants a normal life back.
  
 
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   Niamh Pinkney 
 August 22, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had struggled with IBS symptoms for 10 years before contacting Martin. I was suffering on a daily basis, leading to painful and embarrassing situations. He has completely changed things in every way. His plan has significantly improved my life, I no longer suffer like I used to and I am able to eat a variety of foods without symptoms. He has given me the fundamentals to carry on this way for the rest of my life. Thank you again Martin I can’t appreciate you more.
  
 
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   Mariam Mokh 
 August 15, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Martins advice and guidance was life changing. I suffered from bloating and was unable to eat a lot of food due to fear that it would cause me discomfort and bloating but after only the first session and his guidance on food and supplements I was able to Regain control of  my gut health. Two months after seeing him I have not had any issues regarding bloating, discomfort after eating and have been able to reintroduce all foods back into my diet, including dairy which was a huge issue for me.
Truly grateful for the help and couldn’t recommend him more.
  
 
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   Beryl Spence 
 August 11, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My issues began after taking some antibiotics for a toenail fungal infection. I had tried the ointments first a year and they hadn’t worked. I was worried about taking the antibiotics because I don’t get on with medication and was told I would be ok because the blood tests I had done prior to taking  medication were normal. I was supposed to take the course for 3 months but after 2 was feeling not right. I had terrible gas at night and trapped wind and couldn’t sleep. I went to the Dr four times and was told to take Kefir and mint tea. On the last appointment I was told to go on a FODMAP. I was still having terrible trouble so contacted Martin who listened and said I had dysbiosis cause by the antibiotics. He made a plan for me and I had different supplements to help me move forward. One year later I can nearly eat everything but now have a bone issue. Martin has now made a new plan for me to target the bones.
Martin is extremely knowledgeable and has really helped me to get back to normal. I don’t think I would be in the position I am in now without his help.I can’t recommend him enough.
Thank you
  
 
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   Matthew 
 August 7, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After an initial consultation and working with Martin for the last ten months I would highly recommend the service he and The IBS & Gut Health Clinic deliveries.

With a professional and informative approach, Martin worked to deliver a tailor made protocol focussed around rebalancing and significantly improving my IBS concerns.

Martin has a real passion and holds a wealth of knowledge when it comes to gut, nutrition and supplementation.

During this period of time I have gained an invaluable and in-depth understanding of gut health and can happily say that by implementing Martin's advice and recommendations have seen fantastic results.

Thank you again for your help Martin.
  
 
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   Mark Atkinson 
 December 17, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent advice and guidance from Martin. This year has been challenging with my IBS. I am now in a more stable/settled period thanks to the support from Martin. I will continue to follow the advice provided to retain stability and avoid triggering my IBS. Thank you Martin
  
 
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   Megan Lea 
 December 10, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I contacted the IBS & Gut Health Clinic after exhausting my options going between the NHS and private Consultants trying to find answers to my child’s illness. My daughter was seriously unwell for 18 months after a viral infection which left her with long term agonising stomach pain, unable to eat barely anything, lost a third of her body weight and recurrent absences from school. We were in a desperate situation when luckily we came across Sophia and her expertise. She was sensitive, listened to all our fears, asked detailed questions about my daughter’s history and health and made a detailed plan for her straight away. Finally we felt like we were being taken seriously, and within a couple of months my daughter started to be able to tolerate more foods and her symptoms improved drastically. A year down the line she is pain and symptom free and has her life back. I owe you the world for your services and I’ll be forever grateful for what you have done for my little girl. Thank you so much!
  
 
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   Angus Mcvittie 
 December 7, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Life changing for me - helped me find the cause of my symptoms and ultimately got me my old life back. Really friendly and knowledgeable - explained everything in a clear and accessible way, and I always felt listened to. Advice was always clearly reasoned and took into account my goals and budget. As well as addressing the root cause of my issues, we also made changes to my diet which mean I am healthier and feel even better than I did before my issues started. Thank you!
  
 
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   Natalie Mccormack 
 November 20, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I worked with Martin over the summer to help with IBS symptoms I was experiencing that had been exacerbated by stress and other factors. Martin took the time to explain what was happening with my digestive system to cause these problems and helped me implement a protocol to assist in improving symptoms, whilst also suggesting I slowly introduce certain probiotic and prebiotic supplements to support my gut health. I have been able to re-introduce a wide variety of foods back into my diet that I had been avoiding and have seen an improvement in IBS symptoms. Thank you for your help.
  
 
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   Jo Rutter 
 October 27, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Martin has helped me to understand more about how my digestive system works, improve my gut health and stop taking PPI medication.
  
 
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   Annie White 
 July 24, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Honestly, i was at the end of my tether and felt that maybe the stomach cramps, feeling exhausted and bloated was something that i was going to have to live with…. I’d had an emergency appendix operation 3 years ago which left me with a yeast overgrowth.. The treatment was antibiotics - which didn’t seem right to me as that’s how I’d got into this mess in the first place.  I’d exhausted literally everything but still felt that there had to be another solution. Martin has been the solution for me. He took real time to listen to my problems and to outlined a protocol which worked quickly for me. I saw results within the first month and I’m virtually back to where i was before my op…. I would highly recommend him to anyone
  
 
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   Will B 
 April 25, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working with Martin has been a life changing experience.
After years of suffering with digestive issues I am now in hugely better place thanks to Martin and his work.
Not only has this helped my digestive issues but has given me a hugely more positive outlook on nutrition as a whole which I was not expecting!
My diet now consists of natural, raw and unprocessed foods and I love my new way of eating! And it will undoubtedly lead to a longer, healthier and happier life all round.
I still enjoy treats and but my mindset around nutrition has completely changed and I am happy to be eating so much healthier.

Prior to working with Martin I researched various routes to go down and all I can say is if you are considering working with Martin and his team then do it as you will not regret it!
  
 
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   Ross Drennan 
 February 29, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I paid for Martin's services starting in January as I was experiencing Gut problems including constant constipation and discomfort. From the first meeting Martin was extremely knowledgeable and was able to give me the information regarding how the gut reacts to certain foods in a way that was easy to understand. He set me out a plan of action including changing my diet and introducing certain foods and supplements and within 5 weeks my gut was completely different. I really enjoyed the change of diet we implemented and now it has become the norm in my day to day life. Even testing certain foods to see which were the culprits for my gut problems. Its changed the way I think about food and how I look after my body. Thanks Martin, Really appreciate it.
  
 
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   Nft King 
 January 20, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Martin listened with concern and spoke with authority. Following inconclusive help from the nhs, he recommended biotic and a change in eating that has made a huge difference in my life.
  
 
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   Alwyn Jackson 
 January 11, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After many years of struggling with IBS flare-ups, I am now much more able to understand and control my digestive system thanks to working with Sophia and using the IBS & Gut Health Clinic resources online.  Besides being well-qualified and experienced, Sophia brought a natural empathy to our sessions, consequently I felt very supported and motivated to carry out the Protocols she devised for me after each session.  I am now finding pleasure in eating, consequently my life-style has improved considerably.
  
 
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   Charlotte Simister-Baker 
 December 21, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Having suffered with IBS for 7 years, the  chronic aches, pains and bloating have disappeared! I wish I had approached the IBS & Gut Health Clinic years ago. Highly recommend for those that are in need of help. It can change your life.
  
 
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   Bill Holroyd 
 December 2, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have suffered with tummy cramps for years and years, typically having one attack every 4-6 weeks.. Finally, on the recommendation of a friend, I signed up with the IBS & Gut Clinic and Martin Cohen. After an initial consultation and gradual rebuilding of my gut flora, in conjunction with a structured Fodmap diet, I stopped having the cramps and have moved to an ongoing maintenance regime. It is now a year since I had a tummy cramp and I can say without hesitation that the treatment has been life-changing. I even  have a normal unrestricted diet.
I thoroughly recommend the Clinic to any sufferers from IBS or gut problems.
Bill Holroyd CBE DL
  
 
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   Carolyn Miller Streit 
 November 22, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I found this clinic while desperately searching the internet for help with my gut health. I’m a healthy active 43 year old, but my gi issues were effecting my lifestyle and happiness. I visited many doctors in the U.S. where I live, all of whom wanted to put me on PPI’s & other medications. I was told that I had IBS and there’s no cure for it, so just learn how to manage the symptoms. I followed a low FODMAP diet, but once in a while I’d have a flare up, and most often felt bloated. Before I contacted the IBS & gut health clinic, I was suffering horrible GERD symptoms and doctors were prescribing PPI’s. I took them because I was desperate, but they didn’t even work….because they weren’t solving the actual problem. Within days of my 1st meeting w/Martin I felt better! He recommended a temporary, somewhat strict diet, and a few supplements. The diet was an adjustment, but I ended up loving it because the food was delicious, and I felt better than I had in years!  I wish I had found this sooner and could have saved all of the money I wasted on doctors’ appointments and tests beforehand. This is money well spent! Read the reviews and see ALL the 5 star ratings, that’s what helped me make the decision to call and I’m so glad I did!!
  
 
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   Jasmine Alexander 
 November 8, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't thank Martin enough for all the help he has given me.

For years, i suffered with digestive issues, which included skin issues, anaemia and b12 deficiency, abominable pain, chronic constipation, and bloating 24/7, and ended up with severe gastritis and appendicitis.

I saw many different doctors and had all different kinds of tests and tried loads of medications, and not one of them worked, i never got any answers to what was wrong.

After just 1 block of appointments with Martin, I could see such a difference. He showed me in detail how my digestive system worked and how to heal my gut with supplements and dietary changes.
I can now say I'm 95% better and keep improving just that little bit more every day.

Martin is the first doctor I've ever felt like I've been able to trust. I would 100% recommend Martin to anyone who is struggling with digestive problems, whether they seem big or small.
He explains everything so clearly, gives you clear instructions on what to do, and always emails you back when you have a question or need help in between appointments

If I ever need to see Martin again for any recurring symptoms, I will definitely be making an appointment with him, and I have full confidence that he will be able to help me.
  
 
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   Caroline 
 November 6, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I absolutely loved working with Sophia. She is professional and knowledgeable, but also compassionate and empathetic. This meant a lot to me when I was feeling so overwhelmed with working through my health issues.
She never put pressure on me to do additional testing etc, but the test that she did suggest revealed useful information to me.
My sleep improved and energy levels stabilised quickly based on her food guidance.
It was a great experience working with Sophia and I would recommend her to any of my friends struggling with gut issues.
  
 
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   Jo Alcock 
 October 17, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A very enlightening experience, which has given me a good grounding for continuing with my recovery and symptom management.

I felt bewildered by the amount of information pertaining to my condition and that I was on a roundabout, just going round and round, searching for the solutions to help me.

I signed up to three consultations with Amy who was extremely personable, knowledgeable, kind and understanding.  Between the sessions, she was also on hand to assist with supplement or other enquiries.

I have not achieved the 'Nirvana' that I perhaps naively hoped for but I have come away with a full tool box of things that I can do to help me.  Including food based solutions first rather than medication has been great and I feel much better equipped to move forwards than I did before.

Worth every penny in my view.
  
 
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   Rich Francis 
 October 10, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We are so grateful for Martin's help in resolving my son's IBS issues.  My son had numerous medical tests, examinations and scans, which offered no solution or improvement to his symptoms.  The symptoms were badly affecting his daily life.  Martin's caring and thorough analyses and recommendations identified the problem, and my son no longer suffers his symptoms.  We have nothing but praise for Martin and wouldn't hesitate in recommending him.  Thank you.
  
 
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   Ljm Buckley 
 October 10, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't recommend The IBS & Gut Clinic enough. Martin is brilliant, I love his science driven, caring and pragmatic approach.  I would highly recommend.
  
 
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   A G 
 October 9, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working with Sophia was so refreshing. I had IBS for nearly 20 years and had worked with multiple doctors and nutritionists but no one really approached my problems with such confidence and ease. I didn't feel overwhelmed by overly restricted diets and huge lists of supplements. I was supported all the way through a very responsive messaging app and after 3 months feel great. Started to re-introduce more foods in my diet and can now easily cope with eating out without ballooning. I couldn't recommend Sophia and The IBS & Gut Health Clinic enough.
  
 
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   Janice Walker 
 September 22, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have nothing but praise and very grateful thanks to Martin. I was desperate and very down with my bowel issues that had been going on for months. After several visits to my GP and several tests including a CAT scan she could find no explanation as to the cause of my problems or how to address them.
After my first zoom meeting with a very calm and reassuring Martin and advice to take certain supplements and making small dietary changes, within 36 hours everything returned back to normal. I couldn’t quite believe it.
I cannot recommend Martin and his team highly enough. And I always know that if things take a turn for the worse I can easily contact them.
Thank you again Martin
Janice Walker
  
 
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   Clea Wright 
 September 20, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Worth every penny, I feel so much better. Helped when GP and gastroenterologist did not. Amy was impressively knowledgeable and all round lovely :)
  
 
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   Jade English 
 July 11, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot thank Martin enough. I have struggled with stomach issues for 20 years which doctors diagnosed as IBS and endometriosis but was told repeatedly that there was nothing I could do to resolve my symptoms. I turned to Martin as last resort but as I hadn’t been able to eat gluten or dairy for years and had become sensitive to so many foods, I was hesitant to believe that we would be able to find a solution. However, after trying a few different approaches, we found the solution which has changed my life.
I can now eat what I want freely. Thank you so much Martin - you changed my life!
  
 
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   Alexandra Koken 
 July 3, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After years of unresolved gut health problems, Amy was able to help me fix my gut and actually completely heal my IBS. I've recommended the IBS & Gut Health Clinic to several friends already and will continue to do so. Thank you so much!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Martin Eastwood 
 April 5, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Having suffered a gut infection 12 months ago which had left me with post infectious IBS, bloating, constipation and a number of intolerances, I contacted Martin Cohen at the IBS and Gut Health clinic.
Although I had always kept myself relatively and healthy, Martin re-educated me on a more diverse diet plan, supporting this with recommended Prebiotics/Probiotic supplements, consultations and advice on resources to support gut relaxation.
The advice,  diet plans and supplements evolved over time I saw Martin, to the point now where symptoms are almost non-existent and I feel great.
I can't thank Martin enough and would definitely recommend IBS & Gut Health Clinic to anyone suffering with similar symptoms.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Joanne Massey 
 March 23, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working with Sophia over the last few months has changed my life! I was diagnosed with IBS when I was 17 where it was just mild symptoms and when I was 29 it changed to these flare ups which I had no control over and it got to the point where it was affecting my day to day life, I had the camera tests and blood tests and the doctors found nothing wrong, its “just IBS” so I knew I needed to look elsewhere for support.
I’m so glad I found the IBS & Gut health clinic! Working with Sofia and having her support through all the changes made it so much easier than trying to figure it out alone, for the first time in years I felt truly listened to and understood.
I lived in fear of not knowing when my next flare up would be or what would cause it, the anxiety I had about this has significantly reduced.
I’m still working out my triggers and what I can tolerate but I am more in control of my IBS than I have been in years and I look forward to continuing to learn and building on the knowledge I have been given and hopefully one day no longer live in fear of my IBS.
Thanks Sophia and the IBS&Gut Health Clinic for helping me take back control of my digestive system and helping me feel so much better.

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What is the main cause of IBS?

The main causes of IBS vary between people, but they can include changes in the gut bacteria, food intolerances and stress. Other causes can include SIBO, food poisoning, visceral hypersensitivity and bile acid issues.

Why are my IBS symptoms worse at different times?

Meal timings and circadian rhythms can mean IBS symptoms are worse at different times of the day. For women, this can also be related to hormonal changes.

Can IBS cause tiredness, nausea or headaches?

Yes, along with gut symptoms (e.g. bloating), a range of other symptoms can appear with IBS, including tiredness, nausea and headaches. These can be related to poor nutrient absorption, gut irritation and histamine production.

Is IBS genetic?

Genetics and a family history of IBS can increase the risk of developing IBS; however, IBS is not strictly genetic. Certain genes may influence the immune response to certain foods in the gut or the gut microbiome, but other risk factors would need to be present for the genes to be an issue.

Can stress cause IBS?

Yes, stress can lead to changes in how the gut functions and responds. This can be via alterations in the gut bacteria, the gut lining and the gut-brain connection. Changes in the gut can then lead to more stress, creating a vicious cycle.