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DR HILARY'S DIAGNOSIS

Irritable bowel syndrome typically causes abdominal cramps, bloating, wind and alternating constipation or diarrhoea.

It’s extremely common, especially in women who are vulnerable to the dual effect of their hormones and stress on their digestive system.

Stress hormones like adrenaline completely inhibit normal bowel action so relaxation in the form of regular exercise, deep muscular relaxation and hypnotherapy really can work wonders.

Adjusting the intake of fibre is helpful too and avoiding culprit foods is difficult but worth a go.

To help identify a possible food intolerance, Faye could try a YorkTest – a DIY finger-prick test which is then sent off for analysis.

Traditional medication is disappointing, but mint, chamomile and valerian are herbal remedies with a tried and tested pedigree.

Evening primrose oil is also worth trying if the IBS seems related to the time of the month.

'IBS makes me look pregnant'

EVERY WEEK A CELEB ASKS OUR FABULOUS DOCTOR FOR DIAGNOSIS. THIS WEEK IT’S SINGER FAYE TOZER, 32

I can’t enjoy food like normal people because I’ve got irritable bowel syndrome, a digestive disorder which means that certain foods give me cramps, stomach pain, bloating and, occasionally, diarrhoea.

There are so many things I can’t eat: bread, pasta, greasy foods, some dairy products – basically anything really tasty – so when I’m on the road touring it can be hard to get a meal that won’t upset my stomach.

I’ve had IBS for as long as I can remember.

As a child, I had what my parents called a ‘delicate tummy’.

I can remember thinking how unfair it was that I couldn’t eat sandwiches and yoghurt for lunch like my friends.

If I did, I’d be rushing off to the loo a few minutes later.

When I left school I went on to be a dancer. I had to wear a lot of bikinis, which wasn’t a good look when my bloated stomach made me look like I was pregnant.

By the time I turned 23 I’d had enough and wanted to do something about it.

I went to see my GP who diagnosed IBS.

He told me there wasn’t much I could do other than revise my diet, cutting out anything that upset my tummy.

I steered clear of rich foods like creamy cheeses and Chinese takeaways, along with bread and alcohol, which helped.

But I must admit having to avoid such tasty things for 10 years has been a pain.

Is there any way I can eat normal food like everyone else and not suffer the bloating and pain afterwards?

Words: Claie Wilson. Photography: Drew Gardner/Eyevine

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