Is IBS Hereditary?

Is IBS hereditary? I get asked this all the time. The truth is, we don’t think so, but maybe. Like all factors of IBS, the more we learn the more we know. Here’s what we currently know and what we are learning.

Studies show that relatives of those with IBS are 2-3 times more likely to have IBS themselves. The correlation has always been there, so we are now studying specific genes to understand this connection. As of now, this research is poor and lacking, and we still can’t point to individual “IBS genes.” But, we are getting close.

One recent study by the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden found a genetic variant of those with IBS along chromosome 9, which also influences puberty in women. This finding my support the why IBS is common in females versus males. Another study in Sweden showed an increased risk for IBS among first, second, and third degree relatives of those with IBS, to further support the genetic component.

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Another study from the Karolinska Institutet from 2011, showed a significant association with the gene TNFSF15 for both Crohn’s disease and IBS-C. A recent Mayo Clinic study showed a significant number of those with IBS had a 2.2% mutation in SCN5A gene, which plays a role in the function of interstitial cells of the gut.

The cells play a role in impaired motility and visceral hypersensitivity, which are key markers for IBS. Another similar study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found a connection to the genes KDELR2 and GRID2IP. These are exciting studies because specific genes were highlighted, but this is all very new and needs to be studied more.

Overall, we believe there are both rare mutations and common variants among genes that are involved in the pathophysiology (cause) of IBS. Research is promising and I’m sure we will see more come to the surface in the next few years. Ideally, one day it will be common practice to screen for these risk factors at an early age so we can prevent IBS from flaring, but we aren’t quite there yet.

So what’s applicable about this? If you think you have IBS based on your symptoms and you know another member of your family has IBS, it’s worth mentioning the connection to your doctor. If you have IBS and have children or other family members that are having trouble with digestion, IBS may be something to consider with their doctor.

Are you frustrated with your IBS symptoms? Do you desire to be confident in your food choices? Do you want to have a healthier relationship with your body and diet? Are you ready to take control of your IBS?

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Hi, I'm Erin, founder and lead dietitian at Gutivate. Myself and my team are here, across the US to help you get control of your IBS!
 
Erin JudgeComment