A new theory suggests that Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is the most common type of digestive disorder, can be caused by gravity. Brennan Spiegel, director of health services research at Cedars-Sinai Hospital and author of the hypothesis, explains that the syndrome and many other conditions result from the body’s inability to control gravity.
“Our bodies are affected by gravity from the moment we are born until the day we die. It is such a fundamental force that we rarely notice its continuing effect on our health.” said Spiegel, who is also a professor of medicine. hypothesis published in American Journal of Gastroenterologydescribes how the intestines, spine, heart, nerves, and brain evolved to deal with gravity. “If these systems can’t handle the downward slide, they can cause problems like pain, cramps, dizziness, sweating, a rapid heartbeat, and back problems — all symptoms seen in the syndrome.”
The underlying mechanism of the condition has intrigued researchers since it was first described more than a century ago. Although the disorder affects even 10% of the world’s populationExperts still don’t know exactly how or why it develops. However, there are several contradictory theories explaining its clinical features. One is that irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder of gut-brain interaction: Evidence shows that neuromodulators and behavioral therapies are effective. Another theory says that the syndrome is caused by abnormalities in the gut microbiome, which can be controlled with antibiotics or fermented diets.
For Spiegel, one does not cancel the other—in fact, they are a meeting point. Gravity can stress the spine and reduce flexibility. It can also cause the organs to deviate downward from their proper position. The contents of the belly are heavy, like a sack of potatoes that we are destined to carry with us for life. “The body has evolved to carry this load with a set of supportive structures. If these systems fail, symptoms of the syndrome can occur along with musculoskeletal problems,” explains Spiegel.
Some people have bodies that are better able to handle pregnancy than others. For example, some have “elastic” suspensions that cause the intestines to fall out. Others have spinal problems that cause the diaphragm to sag or the abdomen to protrude, resulting in a compressed abdomen.
These factors can lead to problems with movement or an overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines. This may also help explain why physical therapy and exercise are effective for the condition, since these interventions strengthen support systems. However, more research is needed to test this approach and possible treatments.
“This hypothesis is very provocative, but the best thing is that it’s testable,” said Shelly Lew, MD, president of the Women’s Gastroenterology Association and director of gastroenterology and hepatology at Cedars-Sinai. “If proven, it’s a huge paradigm shift in the way we think about the syndrome, and potentially the treatment as well.”
