Which is a non-dietary strategy for IBS management?

• A. Stress reduction
• B. Bed rest
• C. Antibiotics
• D. Surgery

Answer: (A)

Managing IBS often hinges on its impact on the brain-gut connection. Stress and anxiety can amplify gut sensitivity and motility, so strategies that reduce stress tend to lessen abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. Techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation training, regular exercise, and ensuring good sleep help calm the body’s stress response and can improve IBS symptoms. The other options don’t fit as well: bed rest offers little symptom relief and can lead to other issues, antibiotics are not a routine treatment for IBS unless there’s a specific infection or overgrowth, and surgery isn’t used for IBS since it’s a functional, not structural, problem.