Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be challenging, but thankfully, advancements in technology have brought us mobile apps designed to help manage IBS symptoms and improve overall wellbeing. Here’s a guide to some of the top mobile apps that could help you navigate life with IBS.
Monash University FODMAP Diet
This comprehensive app, developed by the creators of the Low FODMAP Diet, is a great starting point for anyone new to the diet or looking to keep their symptoms at bay. It features a food guide, recipes, a symptom tracker, and even a shopping list function.
Nerva
Nerva uses evidence-based hypnotherapy techniques, delivered via an app, to help you learn automatic skills that can help ‘fix’ the miscommunication between your gut and brain. The program was designed by Dr Simone Peters, who ran a clinical trial with Monash University that found her approach worked just as well as the Low FODMAP diet in helping you live well with IBS.
MySymptoms Food Diary
This app helps you identify potential food triggers by tracking your meals, symptoms, and other factors. It also features advanced data analysis tools to spot correlations and help you better understand your body’s responses.
Headspace
Stress and anxiety are known triggers for IBS. The Headspace app offers mindfulness and meditation exercises designed to reduce stress levels, improve sleep, and increase relaxation. Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine could contribute to better IBS management.
Gut Health Storylines
This app allows you to record symptoms, mood, medication, and diet, providing a holistic view of your health patterns over time. It also offers a community feature, where you can connect with others living with similar health conditions.
Bowel Mover Pro IBS Tracker
The Bowel Mover Pro is specifically designed to track bowel movements, factors affecting them, and other associated symptoms. This app is particularly useful for those dealing with either constipation or diarrhoea as predominant symptoms.
In conclusion, mobile apps can be a valuable part of your strategy to manage IBS symptoms. They offer insight into your body’s responses, help you keep track of triggers, and provide practical guidance on diet and lifestyle modifications.