Health Literacy and IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause symptoms like stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. While IBS is not life-threatening, it can greatly impact a person’s quality of life. Health literacy is an important part of managing IBS.¹

What is health literacy?

Health literacy is the ability to understand and use information related to health. This includes knowing how to:^2,3

• Take medicines
• Follow a healthcare provider’s advice
• Make decisions about healthcare

Why health literacy matters

Good health literacy helps people manage their health better. It allows them to navigate the healthcare system and understand the care provided to them by healthcare professionals. With poor health literacy, managing your health can be hard.^2,3

The impact of poor health literacy

Poor health literacy can lead to misunderstandings about medical instructions. People with low health literacy may not understand how to take medicine correctly. They might miss doctor’s appointments, ignore symptoms, or be unable to follow treatment plans. This can lead to worsened symptoms, increased hospital visits, and lower quality of life.^2,3

Social determinants and racial health disparities

Social determinants of health have a huge impact on health literacy. Social determinants of health include things like:⁴

• Access to healthcare
• Education level
• Income
• Safe housing

People from lower-income backgrounds or those with less education may have more trouble understanding health information.⁴

Racial and ethnic disparities also play a role. Minority groups may face language barriers or may not receive the same quality healthcare as white, native English-speaking people. Sometimes, this results from bias or racism among healthcare providers.^4,5

Why health literacy is important for those with IBS

Overall, improving people’s health literacy can help lead to health equity, where all people receive the same quality of care. For those with IBS, understanding and managing their chronic condition hinges on a solid foundation of health literacy. Good health literacy enables people with IBS to:^2,3,6

• Understand their symptoms
• Follow diet recommendations
• Stick to prescribed medicines

This leads to better symptom control, fewer flare-ups, and an overall improved quality of life.⁶

Poor health literacy, on the other hand, can result in:^2,3,6

• Misunderstandings about treatment plans, leading to improper medicine use
• Ignoring food triggers
• Mismanaging stress

This can worsen symptoms, increase healthcare costs due to frequent doctor visits or hospitalizations, and negatively impact your daily life.^5,6

Understanding medical treatment for IBS

IBS treatment varies from person to person. Some may find relief by avoiding triggers and eating a specific diet. Others may need medicine – like antidiarrheals or antidepressants – to treat their IBS. Understanding these treatment methods is important when living with IBS.⁶

Understanding diet guidance

Diet plays a crucial role in managing IBS. Certain foods, such as gluten, dairy, and beans, may trigger symptoms, so it is important to know what to avoid.⁶

A low FODMAP diet, which limits certain carbohydrates, can help reduce symptoms. This diet can be very helpful in relieving IBS. But it can be hard to follow. It is best to work with a dietitian or nutritionist when making changes to your eating habits.⁶

Understanding stress-reduction strategies

Stress can worsen IBS symptoms. Managing stress through things like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help. Getting regular exercise can also help reduce stress.¹

How to improve your health literacy

There are many resources that can help you improve your health literacy.

Clear communication with your doctor

A good place to start is by asking your primary care provider for clear and simple explanations during your visits. If something is unclear or confusing, ask questions.⁷

It is also helpful to ask your doctor to write down important information. This ensures that you can review the information later and fully understand it.⁷

Seek out reliable resources

The internet is full of health information. But not all of it is reliable. Be careful of websites that claim quick fixes or products that seem too good to be true.

When researching online, look for information from reputable sources like government health websites, well-known medical institutions, or peer-reviewed journals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the National Institutes of Health (NIH) are good places to start. These sites often provide clear, evidence-based information.

Lean on your health institution

Health institutions should provide clear, easy-to-understand information for their patients. This might be written materials, videos, or even apps that help explain things like treatments and how to take your medicine. Ask your healthcare team if they can provide you with health literacy toolkits.⁷