Hi, I've had IBS since college and I'm 45. It had recently gotten so bad, I had horrid gas, bloating, and some things would cause diahhrea. Haven't been able to drink coffee for a few years-heartburn. So I did some reasearch being a natural kind of proponent, and I come to find that people start producing less digestive enzymes beginning at 5 years old. I believe some people naturally have less than others like me. My father had chronic digestive troubles all of his life as does my son. My dad passed away from cancer and I think if he had followed the solution I found, he'd still be around.
Because of the lack of enzymes, I wasn't absorbing any nutrients and other problems developed like skin problems and arthritis. I believe it was my body's way of removing toxins and reacting to not getting the right nutrients. So I started taking a digestive enzyme formula with every single meal and even with a handful of peanuts or dried fruit. I also started taking a fiber supplement (acacia) to keep the toxins rolling out. Poof, all the IBS was gone. Now, I can drink coffee if I want. Additionally, I switched to a 80% alkaline, 20% acid diet, and feel that is better for me. When my son, 14, takes the enzymes, he doesn't get gas.
I hope this helps some. the digestive formula I use is from vitacost.com Source Naturals Daily essential enzymes. It has al the enzymes you need to break down milk, proteins, fats, fiber and carbs. Good luck & God bless.