As you may know, last month we launched a new food ingredient dedicated to intestinal comfort: HelidigestHelidigest has been formulated to help reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). 

We therefore wrote this article to give you more details about the IBS. 

 

What is the irritable bowel syndrome? 

 

It is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by attered motor skills (constipation, diarrhea) and intestinal sensitivity (abdominal pain). The causes are not well known and differ according to individuals, but irritable bowel syndrome appears to be a multifactorial disease. Indeed, diet, stress, anxiety and an imbalance in the intestinal microbiota are factors that can explain the appearance of symptoms. 

 

How many people are affected by this disease?  

 

This disease would affect 10 to 15% of the Western population according to World Gastroenterology Organization. That is to say more than 7 million French people, with a variable severity depending on the individual. 

 

What are the treatments? 

 

In addition to the hygiene and dietery rules aimed at reducing stress and promoting a healthy diet, the treatments currently proposed are limited to the treatment of symptoms, and do not prevent their appearance. 

Some insoluble dietary fibers are known to worsen the symptoms of the disease. This is because the large particles made up of cellulose or hemicelluose have an irritating effect on the intestinal mucosa. In healthy individuals, this effect is reflected by secretion of water and mucus, and facilitated intestinal transit. However, people with IBS experience hypersensitivity of the intestinal lining. Thus, insoluble fiber can cause diarrhea and abdominal pain. 

Helidigest helps prevent irritation of the intestines by degrading insoluble fiber. Indeed, the snail has enzymes naturally capable of breaking down insoluble fibers such as cellulose and hemicellulose. In addition, Helidigest provides plant extracts with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties to complement the effects. 

And finally, the strain of probiotic contained in Helidigest helps to rebalance the intestinal flora. 

If you have any further questions regarding Helidigest, please do not hesitate to contact us!