#19: Managing IBS Symptoms and the Gut-Brain Connection with Dr Alexa Duff

Hello Therapy: Mental Health Tips For Personal Growth

This week I am joined by Dr Alexa Duff, a Clinical Psychologist specializing in gut health, where we uncover the complex relationship between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and mental well-being.
We discuss the various types of and their symptoms such as bloating, cramping, and pain, and we delve into the mental toll IBS can have, from food/diet anxiety to the constant dread of locating the nearest toilet. We explore how stress and physical triggers can set off cyclical symptoms, trapping individuals in a loop that affects both their digestive and mental health. Alexa offers some practical tips and discusses how lifestyle changes such as breath work, yoga, and psychological approaches such as acceptance and commitment therapy and self compassion can break these cycles and reduce symptoms.
Key chapters
(05:43) Anxiety and IBS
(07:04) The gut-brain connection
(10:38) Impact of stress on IBS symptoms
(17:48) Psychological therapy and IBS
(28:05) Tips for managing IBS
This week's guest Dr Alexa Duff
Dr Alexa Duff is a clinical psychologist specialising in gut health. She leads a NHS psychology practice as well as a private practice The Gut Brain Connection. Additionally, Alexa is engaged in research at King’s College London into psychological support for the gut-brain axis.

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DISCLAIMER - The Hello Therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Liz White (DClinPsy, CPsychol, AFBPsS, CSci, HCPC reg.), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and does not constitute personalised advice. Please reach out to your GP or a mental health professional if you need support.

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1. #19: Managing IBS Symptoms and the Gut-Brain Connection with Dr Alexa Duff (00:00:00)

2. Types of IBS (00:03:35)

3. Lesser known symptoms of IBS (00:04:30)

4. Anxiety and IBS (00:05:43)

5. Food & diet preoccupation in IBS (00:06:26)

6. The gut-brain connection (00:07:04)

7. FODMAP diet (00:08:00)

8. Evidence based treatments for IBS (00:09:58)

9. Impact of stress on IBS symptoms & nervous system functioning (00:10:38)

10. Role of the vagus nerve in IBS (00:12:19)

11. Impact of avoidance on IBS symptoms (00:14:55)

12. Psychological therapy for IBS (00:17:48)

13. Beliefs that help maintain IBS symptoms (00:19:38)

14. Trauma and IBS (00:26:04)

15. Tips for managing IBS (00:28:05)

16. Comparison of your past self (00:35:25)

17. One takeaway (00:38:26)