Can Irritable Bowel Syndrome Be Cured? Expert Tips

August 14, 2025|Aleksandra Zegalski, osteopath and physiotherapist

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common digestive disorders worldwide, but it still leaves many wondering: can irritable bowel syndrome be cured? Or will irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) go away on its own? The honest answer is that IBS is a diagnosed, long-term condition for many people, and there is currently no single cure. Symptoms often come and go, and for many people they can be managed with the right approach, although what works differs from one person to the next. We are sharing general lifestyle information here, written by an osteopath and physiotherapist, to help you have a better informed conversation with your doctor.

Why Irritable Bowel Syndrome Happens

The exact cause of IBS is still not fully understood, but several factors are believed to play a role:

Gut-brain communication issues: The nerves and muscles in your gut may be overly sensitive.
Changes in the gut microbiome: Differences in gut bacteria may be linked to symptoms in some people, although research is still ongoing.
Dietary triggers: Some people report that certain foods, such as high FODMAP foods, dairy or gluten, set off flare-ups. Triggers differ widely between individuals.
Stress and emotional health: The nervous system strongly influences digestion.
Post-infection changes: IBS can develop after a gastrointestinal infection.

You can find out more about IBS here for deeper insights into the possible underlying mechanisms and the medical options. READ MORE

Can IBS Go Away Completely?

Unfortunately, IBS does not always “go away” permanently, and there is currently no single cure. However, many people have long periods with few or no symptoms, and some find that identifying their personal triggers helps them manage day to day. Lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments and stress management are often discussed as part of managing IBS, but results vary from person to person.

The evidence for specific diets, such as the low FODMAP diet, is mixed. Some people feel better on them and others notice little difference. Because cutting out foods without support can lead to an unbalanced diet, any elimination diet should be guided by a doctor or a registered dietitian.

Food, Olive Oil and Everyday Eating

Because food plays such a big part in daily life with IBS, we are often asked about olive oil. To be completely clear: no food, including olive oil, has been shown to treat or cure IBS. Olive oil is a fat, and some people notice that large or fatty meals affect how they feel, while others notice no difference. Extra virgin olive oil is a staple in many Mediterranean kitchens, where it is used for cooking and in salads. The best way to learn how food affects you is to keep a simple food and symptom diary and discuss it with your doctor or dietitian.

Seeking Professional Advice

Lifestyle adjustments can be a helpful part of everyday life with IBS, but it is always essential to seek professional advice. Consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis, because other conditions can cause similar symptoms. Some people also choose to work with an osteopath for general support with posture, movement, breathing and stress. Osteopathic care does not cure IBS, but it can sit alongside medical advice. If you’re in Copenhagen, you can visit an osteopath in Nørrebro or Amager at OsteoMedica for an individual assessment.

Please contact your doctor promptly if you notice blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss, pain that is persistent or getting worse, or if symptoms start for the first time after the age of 50. These signs are not typical of IBS and need medical assessment.

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Bottom line: There is currently no single cure for IBS, and what helps differs from person to person. With the right guidance from your doctor or a dietitian, attention to your own triggers, stress management and general lifestyle support, many people find their symptoms easier to live with. If your symptoms change or worry you, please speak to a medical professional.

If you are looking for an everyday olive oil for cooking and salads, this is the one we use.